Manifold fluid module and hermal management system for vehicle

Abstract

An embodiment discloses a manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates, comprising: a manifold block having a passage through which a refrigerant moves inside; a first manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing the passage through which the refrigerant moves or expanding the refrigerant; and a second manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing a passage connected to the first manifold valve or expanding the refrigerant.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a manifold fluid module and a thermal management system for a vehicle including the same. Background Technology

[0002] Vehicle air conditioning systems utilize a heat pump system that can selectively perform cooling and heating of the vehicle's interior using a refrigerant cycle.

[0003] Vehicle heat pump systems that use batteries, such as those in electric vehicles, are configured to improve the performance of the heat pump system by recovering battery waste heat along with electrical waste heat through heat exchange between the refrigerant and the coolant.

[0004] Currently, the modular configuration of heat pump systems for electric vehicles is a partial modular design in which critical components (valves, accumulators, chillers, condensers, heat exchangers, sensors, etc.) are connected by piping, and fittings and connectors must be configured separately for these piping connections. Consequently, gaps are created between components for connection, which results in disadvantages in terms of packaging, cost, and workability, thus requiring improvement.

[0005] Meanwhile, heat pump systems have a simple configuration, and their performance varies depending on the control of the movement of refrigerant and cooling water. Therefore, methods to improve performance and efficiency are being sought. The problem to be solved

[0006] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a manifold fluid module that is modularized into a single unit by mounting a valve together with a manifold block that performs the functions of piping, fittings, and housing.

[0007] In addition, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a thermal management system for vehicles that can improve heating and cooling performance and efficiency.

[0008] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below. means of solving the problem

[0009] A manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention is a manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates, and may include: a manifold block having a flow path through which a refrigerant moves inside; a first manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing the flow path through which the refrigerant moves or expanding the refrigerant; and a second manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing a flow path connected to the first manifold valve or expanding the refrigerant.

[0010] The above manifold block may have a first pocket to which the first manifold valve is coupled and a second pocket to which the second manifold valve is coupled on the front surface, and may have ports connected to the first pocket, the second pocket, and the fluid path, respectively, on the other surface excluding the front surface.

[0011] The above-mentioned flow path may include: a first flow path connecting one inner surface of the first pocket and one inner surface of the second pocket; a second flow path extending from the other inner surface of the first pocket to the outside of the manifold block; and a third flow path extending from the other inner surface of the second pocket to the outside of the manifold block.

[0012] The above port may include a first port connected to the bottom surface of the first pocket; a second port connected to the bottom surface of the second pocket; a third port connected to the second flow path; and a fourth port connected to the third flow path.

[0013] The first port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the manifold block, the second port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the compressor, the third port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the evaporator, and the fourth port can be connected to a refrigerant line directed from the evaporator toward the manifold block.

[0014] The third port and the fourth port are each connected to the inlet and outlet of the evaporator and may be provided on the same side of the manifold block.

[0015] The first manifold valve above can operate to move the refrigerant introduced through the first port to either the first path or the second path according to the air conditioning mode.

[0016] The second manifold valve can operate to discharge the refrigerant introduced through either the first path or the third path from the manifold block through the second port according to the air conditioning mode.

[0017] The above manifold block is provided with an installation hole that penetrates the upper surface of the manifold block and is connected to a third fluid path, and a PT sensor may be installed in the installation hole.

[0018] The first Euro includes a diagonal section bent into a "V" shape, and the second Euro and the third Euro may each include a diagonal section extending from the inner side and a straight section extending from the end of the diagonal section.

[0019] The first manifold valve and the second manifold valve may each include an electronic 3-way expansion valve.

[0020] A thermal management system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates and a cooling water line through which a cooling water circulates. The refrigerant line may include a first refrigerant line in which a compressor, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, an internal heat exchanger, a first evaporator, and a heat exchanger are arranged, and a second refrigerant line connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line in which a manifold fluid module and a second evaporator are arranged.

[0021] The above manifold fluid module may be configured to move the refrigerant introduced along the second refrigerant line to the second evaporator or to move it bypassing the second evaporator.

[0022] It may further include a first branch line configured to branch off from the first refrigerant line and allow the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit to move to the second evaporator, and a second branch line configured to allow the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit to bypass the first evaporator and the second evaporator and move to the compressor.

[0023] The first refrigerant line includes a first refrigerant valve disposed on the outlet side of the indoor unit and a second refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the first evaporator, the second refrigerant line includes a third refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the manifold fluid module, and the second branch line may include a fourth refrigerant valve.

[0024] One end of the first branch line is connected to the first refrigerant line between the indoor unit and the first refrigerant valve, and the other end is connected to the third refrigerant valve, and one end of the second branch line is connected to the first refrigerant line between the internal heat exchanger and the second refrigerant valve, and the other end can be connected to the heat exchanger.

[0025] The system further includes a third branch line configured to branch off from the first refrigerant line and allow the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit to move by bypassing the outdoor unit, wherein one end of the third branch line is connected to the first refrigerant valve and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line between the outdoor unit and the internal heat exchanger. Effects of the invention

[0026] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a manifold fluid module can be provided that is modularized into one by mounting a valve together with a manifold block that performs the functions of piping, fittings, and housing.

[0027] In addition, a vehicle thermal management system capable of improving heating and cooling performance and efficiency can be provided.

[0028] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0029] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a thermal management system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIGS. 4 to 6 are drawings showing a manifold block having a flow path and a pocket in a manifold fluid module. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation of a thermal management system for a vehicle in the first cooling mode. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the operation in the second cooling mode of a thermal management system for a vehicle. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation in the first heating mode of a thermal management system for a vehicle. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operation in the second heating mode of a thermal management system for a vehicle. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0030] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and may have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated and described in the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, a second component may be named a first component, and similarly, a first component may be named a second component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related described items or any of a plurality of related described items.

[0031] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0032] In the description of the embodiments, where one component is described as being formed "on or under" another component, "on or under" includes both cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other and cases where one or more other components are positioned indirectly between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "on or under," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to one component.

[0033] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0034] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0035] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, provided that identical or corresponding components are given the same reference number regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0036] Figure 1 schematically shows a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0037] Referring to the drawings, a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a refrigerant line (100) through which a refrigerant circulates and a coolant line (200) through which a coolant circulates.

[0038] The refrigerant line (100) may include a first refrigerant line (101) in which a compressor (110), an indoor unit (120), an outdoor unit (130), an internal heat exchanger (150), a first evaporator (140), and a heat exchanger (160) are arranged, and a second refrigerant line (102) connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line (101) in which a manifold fluid module (10) and a second evaporator (145) are arranged. In an embodiment, an accumulator (170) may be further arranged in the first refrigerant line (101). The indoor unit (120) and the first evaporator (140) may be installed in the first row (front seat) air conditioning unit (AC1), and the second evaporator (145) may be installed in the second row (rear seat) air conditioning unit (AC2).

[0039] Additionally, the refrigerant line (100) may further include a first branch line (103), a second branch line (104), and a third branch line (105).

[0040] The first refrigerant line (101) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant passes through the compressor (110), indoor unit (120), outdoor unit (130), internal heat exchanger (150), first evaporator (140), heat exchanger (160), and accumulator (170) and then moves back to the compressor (110). At this time, the refrigerant that has passed through the first evaporator (140) can be configured to pass through the heat exchanger (160), pass through the internal heat exchanger (150) again, and then move to the accumulator (170). In the first refrigerant line (101), a first refrigerant valve (171) may be placed at the outlet side of the indoor unit (120), and a second refrigerant valve (172) may be placed at the inlet side of the first evaporator (140).

[0041] One end of the second refrigerant line (102) is connected to the first refrigerant line (101) at the inlet side of the second evaporator (145), and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) at the outlet side of the second evaporator (145).

[0042] The second refrigerant line (102) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant traveling along the first refrigerant line (101) branches off from the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the manifold fluid module (10) and the second evaporator (145), then flows back into the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the accumulator (160), and moves back to the compressor (110).

[0043] A third refrigerant valve (173) may be placed at the branching point of the first refrigerant line (101) and the second refrigerant line (102). The third refrigerant valve (173) may be placed at the inlet side of the manifold fluid module (10) at the branching point of the second refrigerant line (102).

[0044] The compressor (110) receives power from a power source such as an engine or motor, compresses the refrigerant that has been introduced, and then discharges it into the first refrigerant line (101) in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state.

[0045] The indoor unit (120) is installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and can exchange heat with the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) and the air flowing inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The air in the indoor unit (120) is heated and supplied to the interior of the vehicle to heat the interior of the vehicle.

[0046] The first refrigerant valve (171) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions of the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120). In an embodiment, the first refrigerant valve (171) may be a fully open type electronic 3-way expansion valve (EXV).

[0047] The outdoor unit (130) can exchange heat with the incoming refrigerant and the heat medium. In an embodiment, the outdoor unit (130) may include an air-cooled condenser, and the heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant may include outside air. The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the outside air may be condensed.

[0048] The internal heat exchanger (150) can be configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) and the refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160).

[0049] One side of the internal heat exchanger (150) may be positioned downstream of the outdoor unit (130) in the first refrigerant line (101), and the other side may be positioned downstream of the heat exchanger (160). That is, the internal heat exchanger (150) may be positioned so that the section of the first refrigerant line (101) leading from the outdoor unit (130) to the first evaporator (140) and the section leading from the heat exchanger (160) to the compressor (110) pass through it.

[0050] The second refrigerant valve (172) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant that passes through the internal heat exchanger (150) to the first evaporator (140). In an embodiment, the second refrigerant valve (172) may be an electronic 2-way expansion valve or a solenoid-type superheat control 2-way expansion valve (TXV).

[0051] The first evaporator (140) is installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and can exchange heat between the incoming refrigerant and the air flowing inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied to the interior of the vehicle to cool the first-row space.

[0052] A temperature control door (DR1) may be installed between the first evaporator (140) and the indoor unit (120) inside the first air conditioning unit (AC1) to control the amount of air bypassing the indoor unit (120) and the amount of air passing through the indoor unit (120).

[0053] Additionally, a PTC heater (HT1) may be installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The PTC heater (HT1) is placed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) together with the indoor unit (120) and is used as a means to heat the air, and can be used as a means to supplement the temperature required for vehicle air conditioning when the indoor unit (120) does not meet this requirement.

[0054] The third refrigerant valve (173) may be placed at the branching point of the first refrigerant line (101) and the second refrigerant line (102). The third refrigerant valve (173) may perform flow rate control and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant moving to the second refrigerant line (102). In an embodiment, the third refrigerant valve (173) may be a 3-way valve without an expansion function.

[0055] Depending on the air conditioning mode, the direction of the refrigerant flowing into the third refrigerant valve (173) may differ. For example, in cooling mode, the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) may flow into the third refrigerant valve (173) after passing through the outdoor unit (130). Additionally, in heating mode, the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) may flow directly into the third refrigerant valve (173).

[0056] The manifold fluid module (10) is configured to move the refrigerant traveling along the second refrigerant line (102) to the second evaporator (145) or to move it bypassing the second evaporator (145). For example, when there are no passengers on the second row side or when the air conditioning is turned off or operated in the blower function, the refrigerant can be configured to flow bypassing the second evaporator (145) without passing through it. The manifold fluid module (10) will be described later.

[0057] The second evaporator (145) is installed inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and can exchange heat between the incoming refrigerant and the air flowing inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2).

[0058] The second evaporator (145) may be configured to condense or evaporate the refrigerant depending on the operating mode. For example, in the cooling mode, the second evaporator (145) evaporates the refrigerant, and the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied into the vehicle interior to cool the second row space. Also, in the heating mode, the second evaporator (145) condenses the refrigerant, and the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied into the vehicle interior to heat the second row space.

[0059] A PTC heater (HT2) and a temperature control door (DR2) may be installed inside the second air conditioning unit (AC2). When operating in heating mode, heating is achieved by heating the air through the second evaporator (145), which reduces the usage of the PTC heater (HT2), thereby making it possible to reduce power consumption.

[0060] The heat exchanger (160) may be configured so that the refrigerant and the cooling water exchange heat through the cooling water line (200). That is, the heat exchanger (160) may be arranged so that the refrigerant line (100) and the cooling water line (200) pass through it. In an embodiment, the heat exchanger (160) may include a chiller.

[0061] The accumulator (170) can be positioned at the inlet side of the compressor (110) in the first refrigerant line (101). When refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (150) flows into the accumulator (170), the accumulator (170) can separate the refrigerant into gas and liquid and supply the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor (110).

[0062] The first branch line (103) may be configured so that the refrigerant branched from the first refrigerant line (101) and passed through the indoor unit (120) bypasses the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150) to move to the second evaporator (145). One end of the first branch line (103) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) between the indoor unit (120) and the first refrigerant valve (171), and the other end may be connected to the third refrigerant valve (173).

[0063] The second branch line (104) can be configured so that the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150) bypasses the first evaporator (140) and the second evaporator (145) and moves to the compressor (110). One end of the second branch line (104) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) between the internal heat exchanger (150) and the second refrigerant valve (172), and the other end may be connected to the heat exchanger (160). At the heat exchanger (160), the second branch line (104) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101).

[0064] A fourth refrigerant valve (174) may be installed in the second branch line (104). The fourth refrigerant valve (174) may be an electronic 2-way expansion valve capable of performing refrigerant expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions. Refrigerant passing through the fourth refrigerant valve (174) may flow into a heat exchanger (160).

[0065] The third branch line (105) can be configured so that the refrigerant branched from the first refrigerant line (101) and passed through the indoor unit (120) bypasses the outdoor unit (130) and moves to the internal heat exchanger (150).

[0066] One end of the third branch line (105) is connected to the first refrigerant valve (171), and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) between the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150).

[0067] Meanwhile, the cooling water line (200) may be configured so that the cooling water circulates through a battery (not shown) and electrical components (not shown). The cooling water line (200) may be arranged to pass through a heat exchanger (160). The cooling water of the cooling water line (200) may exchange heat with the refrigerant of the refrigerant line (100) at the heat exchanger (160).

[0068] Hereinafter, a manifold fluid module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0069] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 4 to 6 are drawings showing a manifold block having a flow path and a pocket in the manifold fluid module.

[0070] A manifold fluid module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be connected to a second refrigerant line (102) through which refrigerant circulates in a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle.

[0071] Referring to the drawing, the manifold fluid module (10) may include a manifold block (300) having a flow path (320) through which refrigerant moves, and a first manifold valve (410) and a second manifold valve (420) coupled to the manifold block (300). That is, the first manifold valve (41) and the second manifold valve (420) may be coupled to the manifold block (300) to provide a modularized integrated structure.

[0072] The manifold block (300) has a rectangular shape structure that is extended in a roughly straight line and may be provided with a plurality of pockets (310). The plurality of pockets (310) may include a first pocket (311) to which a first manifold valve (410) is coupled and a second pocket (312) to which a second manifold valve (420) is coupled.

[0073] The first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312) are provided with a structure that opens forward from the front (301) of the manifold block (300) and can be arranged parallel to each other along the longitudinal direction of the manifold block (300). In an embodiment, the first pocket and the second pocket may be placed at the same horizontal level. Additionally, the first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312) are exemplified as having a cylindrical structure corresponding to the shape of the first manifold valve (410) and the second manifold valve (420), but are not limited thereto.

[0074] The first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312) can be connected via a Euro (320) inside the manifold block (300). The Euro (320) may include a first Euro (321), a second Euro (322), and a third Euro (323).

[0075] The first flow path (321) may be configured to connect one side inner surface (311b) of the first pocket (311) and one side inner surface (312b) of the second pocket (312). The first flow path (321) may include a diagonal section (321a) bent in a "V" shape. The first flow path (321) may provide a path for the refrigerant introduced into the interior of the manifold block (300) to move from the first pocket (311) to the second pocket (312).

[0076] The second flow path (322) may be configured to extend from the other inner side (311b) of the first pocket (311) to the outside of the manifold block (300). That is, it may extend to the rear side (302) of the manifold block (300). The second flow path (322) may include a diagonal section (322a) extending from the inner side (311b) of the first pocket (311) facing the first flow path (321), and a straight section (322b) that is bent at the end of the diagonal section (322a) and extends to the rear side (302). The second flow path (322) may provide a path for the refrigerant to be discharged from the first pocket (311) to the outside of the manifold block (300).

[0077] The third flow path (323) may be configured to extend from the other inner side (312b) of the second pocket (312) to the outside of the manifold block (300). That is, it may extend to the rear side (302) of the manifold block (300). The third flow path (323) may include a diagonal section (323a) extending from the inner side (312b) of the second pocket (312) facing the first flow path (321), and a straight section (323b) that is bent at the end of the diagonal section (323a) and extends to the rear side (302). The third flow path (323) may provide a path for the refrigerant to flow into the interior of the manifold block (300).

[0078] The diagonal sections (321a, 322a, 323a) of the first Euro (321), the second Euro (322), and the third Euro (323) can be configured such that a virtual processing line (L) extending along the diagonal sections (321a, 322a, 323a) passes through the openings (301) of the first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312) and extends outward without interfering with the inner surfaces of the first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312). That is, the diagonal sections (321a, 322a, 323a) can be formed by processing in a diagonal shape through a processing drill (T) positioned obliquely inside through the openings of the first pocket (311) and the second pocket (312). Additionally, the virtual processing line (L) may correspond to the processing path of the processing drill (T).

[0079] The manifold block (300) may be provided with a port (330) connected to a first pocket (311), a second pocket (312), and a Euro (320), respectively, on a side other than the front (301). In an embodiment, the port (330) may be provided on the rear (302) of the manifold block (300).

[0080] The port (330) may include a first port (331) connected to the bottom surface (311a) of the first pocket (311), a second port (332) connected to the bottom surface (312a) of the second pocket (312), a third port (333) connected to the second flow path (322), and a fourth port (334) connected to the third flow path (323).

[0081] The first port (331), the second port (332), the third port (333), and the fourth port (334) may all be formed on the same surface. Additionally, the first port (331), the second port (332), the third port (333), and the fourth port (334) may be formed on different surfaces. In this case, at least two ports may be formed on the same surface. In an embodiment, the third port (333) and the fourth port (334) may be formed on the same surface.

[0082] As in the present embodiment, when the first port (331), the second port (332), the third port (333), and the fourth port (334) are all formed on the rear surface (302) of the manifold block (300), there is an advantage in that processing costs can be reduced and productivity can be secured. That is, the manifold block (300) made of aluminum is manufactured by a forging process, but in this case, since the dimensions are unstable, precision machining is performed secondarily. However, as in the present invention, when the first port (331), the second port (332), the third port (333), and the fourth port (334) are all formed on the same surface, only the corresponding surface needs to be precision machined, so processing costs can be reduced and productivity can be secured.

[0083] The first port (331) can be opened into the interior of the first pocket (311) from the bottom surface (311a) of the first pocket (311) and can be opened outward from the rear surface (302) of the manifold block (300). The first port (331) can be connected to the second refrigerant line (102) facing the manifold block (300). Thus, the refrigerant moving to the manifold block (300) along the second refrigerant line (102) through the third refrigerant valve (173) can move to the first pocket (311) through the first port (331).

[0084] The third port (333) is positioned between the first port (331) and one side (303) of the manifold block (300) and can be opened to the outside from the rear (302) of the manifold block (300). The third port (333) can be connected to the second refrigerant line (102) toward the second evaporator (145). That is, it can be connected to the inlet of the second evaporator (145). Thus, the refrigerant can move from the first pocket (311) to the third port (333) along the second flow path (322), and from the third port (333) to the second evaporator (145) along the second refrigerant line (102).

[0085] The fourth port (334) is positioned between the second port (332) and the other side (304) of the manifold block (300) and can be opened to the outside from the rear (302) of the manifold block (300). The fourth port (334) can be connected to the second refrigerant line (102) that runs from the second evaporator (145) toward the manifold block (300). That is, it can be connected to the outlet of the second evaporator (145). Thus, the refrigerant passing through the second evaporator (145) moves along the second refrigerant line (102) toward the manifold block (300) and can flow from the fourth port (334) toward the second pocket (312) along the third flow path (323).

[0086] The second port (332) can be opened into the interior of the second pocket (312) from the bottom surface (312a) of the second pocket (312) and can be opened outward from the rear surface (302) of the manifold block (300). The second port (332) can be connected to a refrigerant line (100) directed toward the compressor (110). Thus, refrigerant introduced into the second pocket (312) through the first flow path (321) or the third flow path (323) can move out of the manifold block (300) along the second refrigerant line (102) from the second port (332). The refrigerant can move to the compressor (110) via the heat exchanger (160).

[0087] The first manifold valve (410) is coupled to the first pocket (311) and can be configured to open or close the path (320) through which the refrigerant travels or to expand the refrigerant.

[0088] The first manifold valve (410) can operate to move the refrigerant introduced from the first pocket (311) through the first port (331) to either the first path (321) or the second path (322). The first manifold valve (410) may include a cartridge-type electronic 3-way expansion valve.

[0089] In the embodiment, the first manifold valve (410) can move the refrigerant to the second path (322) when there is a passenger on the second row side and the air conditioning is controlled in a cooling mode or a heating mode. At this time, the first manifold valve (410) can expand the refrigerant when the air conditioning is controlled in a cooling mode, and pass the refrigerant in a non-expanded state when the air conditioning is controlled in a heating mode. The refrigerant moving to the second path (322) can move along the second refrigerant line (102) from the third port (333) and pass through the second evaporator (145).

[0090] Additionally, the first manifold valve (410) can move the refrigerant to the first path (321) when there are no passengers on the second row or when the air conditioning is controlled to OFF. At this time, the first manifold valve (410) can pass the refrigerant in an expanded or non-expanded state. The refrigerant moving to the first path (321) can move to the second pocket (312) by bypassing the second evaporator (145).

[0091] The second manifold valve (420) is coupled to the second pocket (312) and may be configured to open or close the flow path (320) connected to the first manifold valve (410) or to expand the refrigerant.

[0092] The second manifold valve (420) can operate to discharge refrigerant introduced from the second pocket (312) through either the first flow path (321) or the third flow path (323) from the manifold block (300) through the second port (332). The second manifold valve (420) may include a cartridge-type electronic 3-way expansion valve.

[0093] In the embodiment, the second manifold valve (410) can pass the refrigerant in a non-expanded state when the air conditioning is controlled in a cooling mode because there is a passenger on the second row side, and can expand the refrigerant when controlled in a heating mode. The refrigerant can flow in from the second evaporator (145) along the third path (323).

[0094] Additionally, the second manifold valve (420) can expand or pass the refrigerant in a non-expanded state when there are no passengers on the second row or when the air conditioning is controlled to OFF. The refrigerant can flow in from the first manifold valve (410) along the first path (321).

[0095] The refrigerant passing through the second manifold valve (420) moves from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150) and the accumulator (160), and flows into the compressor (110).

[0096] Meanwhile, the manifold block (300) may be provided with an installation hole (340) that penetrates the upper surface (305) of the manifold block (300) and is connected to the third flow path (323). A PT sensor (500) may be installed in the installation hole (340).

[0097] Below, the operation according to the air conditioning mode of the vehicle thermal management system (1) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0098] Figure 7 shows the operation in the first cooling mode.

[0099] Referring to FIG. 7, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the indoor unit (120) and the first refrigerant valve (171), exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor unit (130), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150), and exchanges heat with the refrigerant moving to the compressor (110).

[0100] A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) travels along the first refrigerant line (101), expands at the second refrigerant valve (172), and after exchanging heat with the air of the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) at the first evaporator (140), flows into the heat exchanger (160) and exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160). The refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160) then exchanges heat with the refrigerant that has traveled through the outdoor unit (130) from the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0101] Meanwhile, the remainder of the refrigerant passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) and moves along the second refrigerant line (102) to the manifold fluid module (10). In the manifold fluid module (10), the refrigerant is expanded at the first manifold valve (410), then discharged from the manifold fluid module (10) along the second path (322), and flows into the second evaporator (145). After exchanging heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it moves to the manifold fluid module (10), passes through the second manifold valve (420) in a non-expanded state along the third path (323), and is discharged from the manifold fluid module (10).

[0102] The refrigerant that has moved from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101) flows into the heat exchanger (160), and after exchanging heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160), it exchanges heat with the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) in the internal heat exchanger (150) and moves to the compressor (110).

[0103] In cooling mode, the first refrigerant valve (171) operates to block the third branch line (105), the fourth refrigerant valve (174) operates to block the second branch line (104), and the third refrigerant valve (173) operates to block the first branch line (103).

[0104] FIG. 8 illustrates the operation in the second cooling mode. The second cooling mode corresponds to the case where there are no passengers on the second row side, and the flow of refrigerant passing through the manifold fluid module (10) in the second refrigerant line (102) differs from that of the first cooling mode. The following description focuses on the differences.

[0105] The refrigerant moves from the second refrigerant line (102) to the manifold fluid module (10) via the third refrigerant valve (173). In the manifold fluid module (10), the refrigerant passes through the first manifold valve (410) in a non-expanded state, moves along the first flow path (321) to the second manifold valve (420), expands at the second manifold valve (420), and is discharged from the manifold fluid module (10). Alternatively, the refrigerant may expand at the first manifold valve (410), pass through the second manifold valve (420) in a non-expanded state, and then be discharged from the manifold fluid module (10).

[0106] In this way, when there are no passengers in the second row and air conditioning is unnecessary, the refrigerant is controlled to move by bypassing the second evaporator (145), and as the refrigerant does not flow through the second evaporator (145), the refrigerant pressure inside the system decreases. Accordingly, the power consumption of the compressor (110) is reduced, and the vehicle's fuel efficiency is improved, resulting in an increased driving range.

[0107] Figure 9 shows the operation in the first heating mode.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 9, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the indoor unit (120), and a portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) is expanded at the first refrigerant valve (171), then exchanges heat with the outside air at the outdoor unit (130) (absorbs heat), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150), passes through the fourth refrigerant valve (174) in a non-expanded state along the second branch line (104), and flows into the heat exchanger (160). The refrigerant exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160) (absorbs heat), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150) again, and then flows into the compressor (110).

[0109] Meanwhile, the remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) moves along the first branch line (103) to the third refrigerant valve (173) and moves through the third refrigerant valve (173) to the second refrigerant line (102). In the second refrigerant line, the refrigerant moves to the manifold fluid module (10). In the manifold fluid module (10), the refrigerant passes through the first manifold valve (410) in a non-expanded state, is discharged from the manifold fluid module (10) along the second flow path (322), and flows into the second evaporator (145). After the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it moves to the manifold fluid module (10), and the refrigerant flowing into the second manifold valve (420) from the second pocket (312) along the third path (323) passes through the second manifold valve (420), expands, and is then discharged from the manifold fluid module (10).

[0110] The refrigerant that has moved from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101) is heat exchanged (heat absorbed) with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160) and then flows into the internal heat exchanger (150), and after heat exchange with the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) in the internal heat exchanger (150), it flows into the compressor (110).

[0111] In heating mode, the first refrigerant valve (171) blocks the third branch line (105), the second refrigerant valve (172) blocks the first refrigerant line (101) moving to the first evaporator (140), and the third refrigerant valve (173) operates to block the connection between the first refrigerant line (101) and the second refrigerant line (102).

[0112] In this way, in the heating mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) passes through the indoor unit (120) to heat the air inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and performs heating of the first-row space, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) passes through the second evaporator (145) to heat the air inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby enabling heating of the second-row space. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the usage of the PTC heater (HT2) installed in the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby reducing power consumption. That is, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) can be used as a heating heat source for the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), which has the advantage of reducing power consumption of the PTC heater (HT2) of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and reducing the capacity of the PTC heater (HT2) itself. This can lead to cost reduction.

[0113] In addition, by configuring the system so that high-temperature refrigerant flows to the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in heating mode, the amount of refrigerant flowing inside the entire system increases compared to the existing system (there is no accumulation of refrigerant in the refrigerant line inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2)), and the difference in the appropriate amount of refrigerant for cooling / heating decreases compared to the existing system, which has the advantage of enabling the reduction or elimination of the capacity of the accumulator (160). This can lead to the effect of reducing material costs.

[0114] FIG. 10 illustrates the operation in the second heating mode. The second heating mode corresponds to the case where there are no passengers on the second row side, and the flow of refrigerant passing through the manifold fluid module (10) in the second refrigerant line (102) differs from that of the first heating mode. The following description focuses on the differences.

[0115] The refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) and moving along the first branch line (103) passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) and moves along the second refrigerant line (102) to the manifold fluid module (10). In the manifold fluid module (10), the refrigerant passes through the first manifold valve (410) in a non-expanded state, moves along the first flow path (321) to the second manifold valve (420), expands at the second manifold valve (420), and is discharged from the manifold fluid module (10). Alternatively, the refrigerant may expand at the first manifold valve (410), pass through the second manifold valve (420) in a non-expanded state, and then be discharged from the manifold fluid module (10).

[0116] In this way, when there are no passengers in the second row and air conditioning is unnecessary, the refrigerant is controlled to move by bypassing the second evaporator (145), and as the refrigerant does not flow through the second evaporator (145), the refrigerant pressure inside the system decreases. Accordingly, the power consumption of the compressor (110) is reduced, and the vehicle's fuel efficiency is improved, resulting in an increased driving range.

[0117] In this way, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of manifold valves (410, 420) constituting a manifold fluid module (10) are combined into a single manifold block (300) to form an integrated structure, which can bring about the effects of simplifying parts and reducing costs.

[0118] In addition, in the heating mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) is configured to be used as a heating heat source for the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby having the advantage of reducing the power consumption of the PTC heater (HT2) of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and reducing the capacity of the PTC heater (HT2) itself, and thus bringing about the effect of reducing costs.

[0119] In addition, when there are no passengers in the second row and air conditioning is unnecessary, the manifold fluid module (10) is configured so that the refrigerant does not flow to the second evaporator (145) provided to the second row, thereby improving vehicle fuel efficiency and increasing the driving range.

[0120] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and changes should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims. Explanation of the symbols

[0121] 10: Manifold Fluid Module 100: Refrigerant line 101: 1st refrigerant line 102: Second refrigerant line 103: 1st branch line 104: 2nd branch line 105: 3rd branch line 110: Compressor 120: Indoor unit 130: Outdoor unit 140: First evaporator 145: Second evaporator 150: Internal heat exchanger 160: Heat exchanger 170: Accumulator 171: First refrigerant valve 172: Second refrigerant valve 173: Third refrigerant valve 174: 4th refrigerant valve 200: Coolant line 300: Manifold Block 310: Pocket 311: First Pocket 312: Second Pocket 320: Euro 321: First Euro 321a: Diagonal section 322: The 2nd Euro 322a: Diagonal section 322b: Straight section 323: The 3rd Euro 323a: Diagonal section 323b: Straight section 330: Port 331: Port 1 332: Port 2 333: Port 3 334: Port 4 340: Installation hole 410: First manifold valve 420: Second manifold valve 500: PT sensor

Claims

Claim 1 A manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which refrigerant circulates, comprising: a manifold block having a passage through which refrigerant moves inside; a first manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing the passage through which refrigerant moves or expanding the refrigerant; and a second manifold valve coupled to the manifold block and opening or closing a passage connected to the first manifold valve or expanding the refrigerant. Claim 2 A manifold fluid module according to claim 1, wherein the manifold block has a first pocket to which the first manifold valve is coupled and a second pocket to which the second manifold valve is coupled on the front surface, and has ports connected to the first pocket, the second pocket, and the fluid path, respectively, on the other surface excluding the front surface. Claim 3 In paragraph 2, the manifold fluid module comprises: a first fluid path connecting one inner surface of the first pocket and one inner surface of the second pocket; a second fluid path extending from the other inner surface of the first pocket to the outside of the manifold block; and a third fluid path extending from the other inner surface of the second pocket to the outside of the manifold block. Claim 4 In paragraph 3, the port comprises: a first port connected to the bottom surface of the first pocket; a second port connected to the bottom surface of the second pocket; a third port connected to the second fluid path; and a fourth port connected to the third fluid path; comprising a manifold fluid module. Claim 5 A manifold fluid module according to claim 4, wherein the first port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the manifold block, the second port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the compressor, the third port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the evaporator, and the fourth port is connected to a refrigerant line directed from the evaporator toward the manifold block. Claim 6 A manifold fluid module according to claim 5, wherein the third port and the fourth port are each connected to the inlet and outlet of the evaporator and are provided on the same side of the manifold block. Claim 7 A manifold fluid module according to claim 4, wherein the first manifold valve operates to move the refrigerant introduced through the first port to either the first flow path or the second flow path according to the air conditioning mode. Claim 8 A manifold fluid module according to claim 4, wherein the second manifold valve operates to discharge refrigerant introduced through either the first flow path or the third flow path from the manifold block through the second port according to the air conditioning mode. Claim 9 A manifold fluid module according to paragraph 3, wherein the manifold block has an installation hole that penetrates the upper surface of the manifold block and is connected to a third fluid path, and a PT sensor is installed in the installation hole. Claim 10 A manifold fluid module characterized in that, in paragraph 3, the first fluid path includes a diagonal section bent in a "V" shape, and the second fluid path and the third fluid path each include a diagonal section extending from the inner side and a straight section extending from the end of the diagonal section. Claim 11 A manifold fluid module according to claim 1, characterized in that the first manifold valve and the second manifold valve each include an electronic 3-way expansion valve. Claim 12 A thermal management system for a vehicle, comprising a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates and a cooling water line through which a cooling water circulates, wherein the refrigerant line comprises a first refrigerant line in which a compressor, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, an internal heat exchanger, a first evaporator, and a heat exchanger are arranged, and a second refrigerant line connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line in which a manifold fluid module and a second evaporator are arranged, and wherein the manifold fluid module comprises a manifold fluid module according to claim 1. Claim 13 A thermal management system for a vehicle according to claim 12, characterized in that the manifold fluid module is configured to move the refrigerant introduced along the second refrigerant line to the second evaporator or to move it bypassing the second evaporator. Claim 14 A thermal management system for a vehicle according to claim 12, further comprising: a first branch line configured to branch off from the first refrigerant line and allow the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit to move to the second evaporator; and a second branch line configured to allow the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit to bypass the first evaporator and the second evaporator and move to the compressor. Claim 15 A thermal management system for a vehicle according to claim 14, wherein the first refrigerant line comprises a first refrigerant valve disposed on the outlet side of the indoor unit and a second refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the first evaporator, the second refrigerant line comprises a third refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the manifold fluid module, and the second branch line comprises a fourth refrigerant valve. Claim 16 A thermal management system for a vehicle according to claim 15, wherein one end of the first branch line is connected to the first refrigerant line between the indoor unit and the first refrigerant valve and the other end is connected to the third refrigerant valve, and one end of the second branch line is connected to the first refrigerant line between the internal heat exchanger and the second refrigerant valve and the other end is connected to the heat exchanger. Claim 17 A thermal management system for a vehicle according to claim 15, further comprising a third branch line configured to branch off from the first refrigerant line and allow the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit to move bypassing the outdoor unit, wherein one end of the third branch line is connected to the first refrigerant valve and the other end is connected to the first refrigerant line between the outdoor unit and the internal heat exchanger.

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