System for distribution of a fluid

Abstract

A system (100) for distribution of a fluid, comprising a casing (102) defining a housing (104) for a distributing member (10) intended to be rotatable about an axis (X), said casing being provided with channels (110a-110f) distributed about the circumference of the casing, at least three channels (110a-110d) belonging to a first group (G1) and each occupying a given first angular sector, and at least two channels (110e-110f) belonging to a second group (G2) and each occupying a second angular sector, smaller than the first sector. The system is configured such that a rotation of the distributing member that allows the circulation of the fluid between one of the channels from the second group and one of the channels from the first group and blocks circulation between a different channel from the second group and the same channel from the first group leaves open circulation between other channels from the first group.

Description

FLUID DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to a system for distributing a fluid, in particular a heat transfer fluid. This distribution system will find its application, for example, in the field of motor vehicles. Technical background

[0002] Fluid circuits are known for providing thermal conditioning to various parts or areas of a motor vehicle, including its passenger compartment. With the proliferation of hybrid or electric engines, these circuits have numerous branches to meet the vehicle's thermal management needs in various operating modes.

[0003] To circulate the fluid in their various branches, such circuits include a large number of valves connecting the branches together in different configurations depending on the desired operating mode. Such a number of valves increases pressure losses. They also make controlling the circulation of the fluid more complex and increase the cost of these circuits.

[0004] Rotary valves have also been proposed that allow multiple inlets / outlets to be connected in order to provide more fluid circulation possibilities between the circuit branches compared to standard two-, three- or four-way valves. However, these valves have a large footprint that limits their use. There is also a need to control the friction generated during their operation so that they can be operated with limited torque.

[0005] The present invention aims to at least partially overcome the drawbacks stated above and to this end proposes a system for distributing a fluid, the distribution system being intended to make at least some of the branches of a fluid circuit communicate with each other according to different configurations of the system, the distribution system comprising a distributor member, the distributor member being intended to be movable in rotation around a longitudinal axis in order to selectively serve the branches to be made to communicate with each other according to angular positions of the distributor member, the distribution system comprising a housing defining a housing for the distributor member, the housing being provided with a plurality of inlet and / or outlet channels, called peripheral channels, distributed over a circumference of the housing, at least three channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belonging to a first group,each channel of this first group occupying a first given angular sector, and at least two channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belonging to a second group, each channel of this second group occupying a second angular sector, the second angular sector having a dimension smaller than the dimension of the first angular sector, the system being configured so that a rotation of the distributor member allowing the circulation of the fluid between one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group by blocking a circulation between another of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group and the same one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group leaves open a circulation between other peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group.,

[0006] Thanks to such a configuration, the angular displacement of the distributor member is limited, at least to move from some of its angular positions to others. As a result, the friction generated and the torque required to move it is reduced. In addition, the circumference of the housing is also reduced, which makes it possible to limit the radial size of said system.

[0007] The distribution system according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with one another: the first angular sector is substantially equal to at least 72 degrees; the second angular sector is substantially equal to at most 36 degrees; said distribution system comprises a single distribution stage; said inlet and / or outlet channels are distributed along said single stage along said longitudinal axis; the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels open laterally, in particular radially, into the housing via openings; there are six peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels;the openings of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group have a first width and the openings of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group have a second width, the first width being greater than the second width;the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group have a first section and the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group have a second section, the first section being of a dimension greater than the dimension of the second section;the ratio of the first width to the second width is between 1 and 5;the ratio of the first section to the second section is between 1 and 5;said first and / or second sections are substantially between 110 mm² and 490 mm²;the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group are angularly spaced regularly;the distributor member comprises a body;said body has a first and / or a second rotational guide plate; said first and second plates are parallel to each other and / or perpendicular to said axis of rotation; the distribution system comprises a seal located between the distributor member and an internal face of a side wall of the housing; the seal comprises a first part, called annular, in the form of a ring or an angular sector of a ring located at the level of the first plate of the distributor member and / or a second part, called annular, in the form of a ring or an angular sector of a ring located at the level of the second plate of the distributor member; the distributor member has a plane of symmetry;said body has one or more first chambers opening radially so that angular positions of the body determine a passage of the fluid between the different peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the distribution system, through the or at least one of the first chambers; said first and second plates are located on either side of said first chambers along said longitudinal axis; the body of the distributor member has a fluid distribution channel, extending axially along the longitudinal axis, and a second chamber communicating with this distribution channel, the second chamber opening radially, so that at least some of the angular positions of the body determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel, called axial, and at least one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the distribution system, through the second chamber and the distribution channel;the body comprises branches connected to each other at a central part, the branches extending radially from the central part to lateral edges of the body; the body of the distributor member comprises guides placed angularly between first and second of said branches, in the vicinity of a peripheral edge, in particular in the vicinity of one of said lateral edges; two of the first branches define the second chamber; one of the first branches and one of the second branches define, together with at least one of the guides placed angularly between said two branches in question, at least one of the first chambers; the branches extend substantially radially; each first chamber has an angular amplitude of between 120 and 150 degrees; the distribution channel is centered on the longitudinal axis; the first and / or second chambers extend angularly around the longitudinal axis;the distribution channel communicates with the second chamber over all or part of a height of the chamber, this height extending along the longitudinal axis; there are two first chambers; the distributor member is configured to rotate through less than 360 degrees, or even less than 300 degrees; the branches delimiting the chambers comprise walls extending along the longitudinal axis from the first plate towards the second plate; the walls of the branches are substantially planar; the walls of the first branches defining the second chamber are substantially parallel to each other; the distributor member is configured so that a passage section between one of the chambers and one of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group and a passage section between the same chamber and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group is substantially identical in at least one of the angular positions;the distribution system has a plurality of fluid distribution orifices, these distribution orifices being respectively intended to be connected to the branches of the fluid circuit; the inlet and / or outlet channels open respectively onto the distribution orifices; the distributor member comprises a body having an external diameter Ør and a first height Hr, the ratio of said external diameter Ør and said first height Hr defining a parameter R of between 0.6 and 2.7; said housing of the casing has a second height Hc and the openings of said inlet and / or outlet channels each have a third height h, such that the first height of the distributor member is less than said second height of the housing and greater than said third height of the openings;in each of the angular positions of the distributor member, the second chamber is configured to be in communication with one of the inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group, four of the channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belong to the first group and / or two of the channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belong to the second group, an angular opening ratio of the channels of the first group over an angular span of the first angular sector occupied by the channels of said first group is greater than 50%, or even 60%, or even is substantially 75%.; Brief description of the figures

[0008] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear during the reading of the detailed description which follows for the understanding of which reference will be made to the appended drawings in which:

[0009] schematically illustrates in perspective along a cross-sectional plane an example of a fluid distribution system in accordance with the invention,

[0010] resumes the top view,

[0011] schematically illustrates in perspective a distributor organ of the distribution system of the,

[0012] schematically illustrates in perspective according to a transverse section plane the distributor organ of the,

[0013] schematically illustrates according to a cross-sectional plane a first distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system,

[0014] schematically illustrates according to a cross-sectional plane a second distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system,

[0015] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane a third distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system,

[0016] schematically illustrates according to a cross-sectional plane a fourth distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system of the,

[0017] schematically illustrates according to a cross-sectional plane a fifth distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system of the,

[0018] schematically illustrates the housing of the distribution system of the axial section plane.

[0019] In these figures, the same reference corresponds to identical or similar elements. Detailed description of the invention

[0020] With reference to Figures 1 to 3, the invention relates to a distribution system 100 for a fluid. This distribution system 100 is intended to make at least some of the branches of a fluid circuit communicate with each other according to different configurations of the system. The distribution system has a plurality of fluid distribution orifices, not illustrated. The distribution orifices are intended to be respectively connected to the branches of the circuit.

[0021] The distribution system 100 comprises a distributor member 10. This distributor member 10 is intended to be movable in rotation around a longitudinal axis X in order to selectively serve the branches to be communicated with each other as a function of angular positions of the distributor member 100.

[0022] The distribution system 100 also comprises a housing 102 defining a housing 104 for the distributor member 10. It is understood that the housing 104 has a diameter substantially identical to the diameter of the distributor member 10, with a clearance necessary for the rotation of the distributor member 10 in the housing 104.

[0023] The housing 102 is provided with a plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. These channels 110a-110f advantageously open laterally into the housing 104 via openings 111, 112. The peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f are at least five in number. In the examples illustrated, the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f are six in number, namely one inlet and / or outlet channel 110a, a second inlet and / or outlet channel 110b, a third inlet and / or outlet channel 110c, a fourth inlet and / or outlet channel 110d, a fifth inlet and / or outlet channel 110e and a sixth inlet and / or outlet channel 110f. Each of the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f is provided as a radial projection from a side wall 106 of the housing 102.

[0024] The peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f are distributed over angular sectors P1, P2 on a circumference of the housing 102. At least three channels 110a-110d of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f belong to a first group G1. Each channel 110a-110d of this first group G1 occupies a given first angular sector P1. At least two channels 110e-110f of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f belong to a second group G2. Each channel 110e-110f of this second group G2 occupies a second angular sector P2. This second angular sector P2 has a dimension smaller than the dimension of the first angular sector P1. It should be noted that the first angular sectors P1 occupied by the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 are not necessarily equal.Similarly, the second angular sectors P2 occupied by the peripheral input and / or output channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 are not necessarily equal. On the other hand, the largest of the angular sectors of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the second group G2 is smaller than the smallest of the angular sectors of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the first group G1.

[0025] The distributor member 10 is further configured such that a rotation of the distributor member 10 allowing the circulation of the fluid between one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 by blocking the circulation between the other of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 and the same of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 leaves open the circulation between other peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1, in particular by pair of channels of said first group G1.

[0026] Many examples of circuits can be equipped with such a distribution system which has the advantage, thanks to its multiple channels, of being able to use these circuits according to very varied operating modes. In addition, as will be developed later, the reduced angular amplitude of some of its peripheral input and / or output channels makes it possible to reduce its size as well as the friction generated when moving from one angular position to another.

[0027] Advantageously, the distribution system 100 comprises a single stage. In other words, said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f open into the distributor member 10 substantially at the same level along said longitudinal axis. This makes it possible to improve the axial compactness of the system.

[0028] La represents another view of the distribution system 100. This further illustrates an example of a first angular sector P1 for one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d belonging to the first group G1, and an example of a second angular sector P2 for one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f belonging to the second group G2. In this example of la, the first angular sector P1 is advantageously substantially equal to at least 72 degrees. Still in this example, the second angular sector P2 is advantageously substantially equal to at most 36 degrees. The angular sectors P1, P2 are measured taking into account a wall thickness of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. The angular ends of the contiguous sectors are merged. In other words, one angular sector ends when the other begins.Each angular end is located, for example, at a half-line perpendicular to and passing through the longitudinal axis X as well as through a midpoint between two of said neighboring inlet and / or outlet channels.

[0029] Advantageously, the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 are angularly spaced regularly.

[0030] The openings 111 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 may have a first width D and the openings 112 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 may have a second width d. The first width D is greater than the second width d.

[0031] The ratio of the first width D to the second width d is advantageously between 1 and 5.

[0032] The openings of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 may have a first passage section S1 and the openings of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 may have a second passage section S2. The first passage section S1 is then of a dimension greater than the dimension of the second passage section S2.

[0033] The ratio of the first passage section S1 to the second passage section S2 is advantageously between 1 and 5.

[0034] Advantageously, the dimensions of the first and / or second passage sections S1, S2 are substantially between 110 mm² (square millimeters) and 490 mm². These section values ​​are intended to correspond to the sections of the pipes generally encountered on a vehicle in the fluid circuits used for thermoregulation.

[0035] Illustrates the distributor member 10. The distributor member 10 may comprise a body 12 and may optionally comprise a first plate 14 and a second plate 16, parallel and orthogonal to the longitudinal axis X, connected by the body 12. The body 12 has lateral edges 18, located in the present example at the level of a fictitious cylinder connecting peripheral edges 20 of the plates 14, 16. It is understood that the first and second plates 14, 16, when present, have a diameter substantially identical to the diameter of the distributor member 10 and are configured to participate in guiding it in rotation in the housing 104. It is in particular they which are likely to generate the friction that the invention proposes to limit.

[0036] The lateral edges 18 of the body 12 are located opposite and in the immediate vicinity, with the clearance remaining, of an internal face of the side wall 106 of the housing 102.

[0037] The dispensing member 10 may have a plane of symmetry. The dispensing member 10 may be configured to rotate in a clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction. The dispensing member 10 may thus be configured to rotate less than 360 degrees, or even less than 300 degrees, or even less than 240°.

[0038] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 has one or more first chambers 24 opening radially so that angular positions of the body 12 determine a passage of the fluid between the different peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f of the distribution system 100, through the or at least one of the first chambers 24. In the examples illustrated, there are two first chambers 24.

[0039] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 further has a distribution channel 22 for the fluid. This distribution channel 22 extends axially along the longitudinal axis X. Advantageously, the first distribution channel 22 is centered on the longitudinal axis X.

[0040] The body 12 also has a second chamber 25 communicating with the distribution channel 22. This second chamber 25 also opens radially.

[0041] The first and / or second chambers 24, 25 advantageously extend angularly around the longitudinal axis X.

[0042] In this way, at least some of the angular positions of the body 12 of the distributor member 10 determine a passage of the fluid between an axial inlet and / or outlet channel 21 and at least one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f of the distribution system 100, through the second chamber 25 and the distribution channel 22.

[0043] Such an axial distribution channel 22 makes it possible to further limit the circumference of the distributor member 10 and therefore the radial size of the distribution system 100.

[0044] Advantageously, the distribution channel 22 communicates with the second chamber 25 over all or part of the height of the second chamber 25. This height of the second chamber 25 extends along the longitudinal axis X. Communication between the distribution channel 22 and the second chamber 25 is via an opening 23.

[0045] Furthermore, the distributor member 10, in particular the body 12, advantageously comprises a central part 26. The body 12 may also comprise branches 28a, 28b connected to each other at the central part 26. The branches advantageously extend substantially radially from the central part to the lateral edges 18.

[0046] The body 12 also comprises guides 29 placed angularly between the first and second branches 28a, 28b, in the vicinity of a peripheral edge 20, in particular between two lateral end edges 18 of the branches 28a, 28b.

[0047] Two first 28a branches define the second chamber 25. One or more other 28b branches, called second branch, participate in the definition of the first chambers 24.

[0048] At least one of the first chambers 24 is defined by one of the first branches 28a and one of the second branches 28b, with at least one of the guides 29 placed angularly between the two branches 28a, 28b in question. The branches 28a, 28b delimiting the chambers 24, 25 comprise internal walls 30a and external walls 30b, 30c which extend along the longitudinal axis X from the first plate 14 towards the second plate 16.

[0049] The internal walls 30a of the first branches 28a delimiting the second chamber 25 may be substantially flat. These internal walls 30a may be substantially parallel to each other.

[0050] The outer walls 30b of the first branches 28a and the outer walls of the second branch(es) 28b are arranged so as to form an angle. The bottom of this angle may form an edge or be rounded.

[0051] Advantageously, the angular amplitude α of each first chamber 25 is between 120 and 150 degrees.

[0052] Advantageously, each external wall 30b of the first branches 28a is substantially parallel to a first internal wall 31a of the guide 29 which is closest to it, and an external wall 30c of the second branch 28b is substantially parallel to a second internal wall 31b of the same guide 29. It is understood that the walls 31a, 31b of each guide 29 are arranged so as to form an angle, this angle being able to form an edge or be rounded. The first chambers 24 thus have the shape of an angled conduit.

[0053] The walls 30a, 30b, 30c of the branches 28a, 28b may be substantially flat. The walls 31a, 31b of the guides 29 may also be substantially flat.

[0054] According to one embodiment of the invention, the distributor member 10 is configured so that a passage section between one of the chambers 24, 25 and one of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 and a passage section between the same one of the chambers 24, 25 and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f of the second group G2 is substantially identical in at least one of the angular positions.

[0055] The first chamber(s) 24 communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. Advantageously, the first chamber(s) 24 communicate with at most two of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributor member 10.

[0056] The second chamber 25 of the distributor member 10 is intended to communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. Advantageously, the second chamber 25 is intended to communicate with at most one of the peripheral channels 110a-110f, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributor member 10.

[0057] The distribution system 100 may comprise an actuator, not shown, for example a stepper motor, for rotating the distributor member 10 around the longitudinal axis X. The distributor member 10 may then comprise a drive shaft 40, intended to be engaged with the actuator. The maximum nominal torque of the actuator is, for example, 2.5 Nm (Newton meter), in particular for a standard pressure in the fluid circuit, for example approximately 1.2 bars.

[0058] The distribution system 100 may also comprise a seal, not shown, located between the distributor member 10 and the internal face of the side wall 106 of the housing 102. This seal may comprise a first part, called annular, in the form of a ring or an angular sector of a ring located at the level of the first plate 14 of the distributor member 10 and / or a second part, called annular, in the form of a ring or an angular sector of a ring located at the level of the second plate 16 of the distributor member 10. The friction in question is therefore more specifically generated between the seal and the distributor member 10.

[0059] The distribution system 100 may further comprise a plate, not shown, which is designed to close the housing 102. This plate 112 is mounted orthogonally to the longitudinal axis X of the distributor member 10. The plate may be fixed, in particular welded, to the housing 102. This plate is furthermore configured to be fixed to a fluid distribution support having the distribution orifices of the system, the inlet and / or outlet channels opening respectively onto the distribution orifices.

[0060] Different dispensing positions of the dispensing system 100 of Figures 5 to 9 are shown below.

[0061] In the following, the flows of the fluid, in particular a heat transfer liquid, through the chambers 24, 25 of the distributor member 10 are represented by arrows in the corresponding figures.

[0062] La represents a first distribution position of the distribution system 100. In this first distribution position, the second chamber 25 connects the distribution channel 22 and the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110a. One of the first chambers 24 connects the second 110b and third 110c peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. The other of the first chambers 24 connects the fourth 110d and fifth 110e peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. In this first position, circulation in the sixth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110f is blocked.

[0063] La represents a second distribution position of the distribution system 100. In this second distribution position, the second chamber 25 connects the distribution channel 22 and the fourth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110d. One of the first chambers 24 connects the second 110b and third 110c peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. The other of the first chambers 24 connects the first 110a and fifth 110e peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. In this second position, circulation in the sixth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110f is blocked.

[0064] La represents a third distribution position of the distribution system 100. In this third distribution position, the second chamber 25 connects the distribution channel 22 and the second peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110b. One of the first chambers 24 connects the third 110c and fourth 110d peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. The other of the first chambers 24 connects the first 110a and fifth 110e peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. In this second position, circulation in the sixth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110f is blocked.

[0065] La represents a fourth distribution position of the distribution system 100. In this fourth distribution position, the second chamber 25 connects the distribution channel 22 and the second peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110b. One of the first chambers 24 connects the third 110c and fourth 110d peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. The other of the first chambers 24 connects the first 110a and sixth 110f peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. In this second position, circulation in the fifth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110e is blocked.

[0066] La represents a fifth distribution position of the distribution system 100. In this fifth distribution position, the second chamber 25 connects the distribution channel 22 and the fourth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110d. One of the first chambers 24 connects the second 110b and third 110c peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. The other of the first chambers 24 connects the first 110a and sixth 110f peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. In this second position, circulation in the fifth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110e is blocked.

[0067] In the example illustrated in Figures 5 to 9, as a reminder, there are five angular distribution positions and they involve circulation of the fluid in at least one of the chambers 24, 25. The first, second, third and fourth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d form the first group G1 and each occupy a first angular sector P1 equal to 72 degrees. The fifth and sixth peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110e-110f form the second group G2 and each occupy a second angular sector P2 equal to 36 degrees. This configuration makes it possible, with a small amplitude rotation, to move from the second distribution position to the fifth distribution position, but also to move from the third distribution position to the fourth distribution position, and vice versa, while maintaining identical circulation of the fluid on the other inlet and / or outlet channels.In this way, it is possible to reduce the torque required to operate the distribution system and to switch from one operating mode to another, while the operating modes in question only require changing the way in which the peripheral input and / or output channels are connected to each other for some of said input and / or output channels.

[0068] For this purpose, here, without this being necessary, the peripheral input and / or output channels 110e, 110f of the second group G2 are angularly contiguous. Furthermore, one 110a of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the first group G1 is angularly contiguous to one 110f of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the second group G2. Furthermore, another 110d of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the first group G1 is angularly contiguous to the other 110e of the peripheral input and / or output channels of the second group G2. This configuration makes it possible to have an operation in accordance with the invention with rotation in both the clockwise and counterclockwise directions of the distributor member 10. It also favors the symmetrical configuration of the latter.

[0069] In light of this example, it is understood that the invention allows, thanks to the combined use of the chambers 24, 25 and the channel 22, several possibilities for distributing the fluid, with energy savings. Indeed, the change of distribution position with a low amplitude rotation reduces the torque necessary for the rotation of the distributor member and, consequently, allows the use of less powerful actuators.

[0070] A reduction in the radial and / or axial size of the distribution system 100 is also achieved. Indeed, the position of the distribution channel 22, for example central, makes it possible to simplify the architecture of the distributor member 10 and thus make the distribution system more compact.

[0071] It is further noted that in each of the angular positions of the distributor member described above, the second chamber 25 is configured to be in communication with one of the channels 110a-110d of the first group. In this way, the passage section of the fluid coming from the distribution channel 22 is optimized in order to avoid additional pressure losses which would be generated by directing the flow towards one of the channels 110e-110f of the second group, these having a smaller passage section.

[0072] If we refer again to the, we see that the body 12 has an external diameter Ør and a first height Hr. The ratio of the external diameter Ør to the first height Hr defines a parameter R. This parameter R is between 0.6 and 2.7.

[0073] This parameter R represents the optimal values ​​obtained to have a distribution system 100 with limited pressure losses and control of the friction generated by the distributor member 10, while having reduced compactness of the distribution system 100.

[0074] It is understood that having a high external diameter Ør compared to the first height Hr will tend to increase friction while a high first height Hr compared to the external diameter Ør will tend to increase pressure losses, in particular if the passage of the fluid towards the distributor member 10 has a shape approaching simple slots.

[0075] If the external diameter Ør is too small, at constant passage section, the widths of the fluid inlet / outlet passage will be very small, which is not desirable for pressure losses even if the first height Hr increases.

[0076] If the external diameter Ør is suitable and compact to place the fluid inlet / outlet passages, the first height Hr will be defined by the need for the passage section. Even if a high height Hr can improve the pressure losses, it is however not desirable because the distributor system 100 will be less compact, which implies more material and therefore additional cost, and the torque will be increased due to a large contact surface, involving more friction.

[0077] It should also be noted that with a constant cross-section of the inlet / outlet passages, a high first height Hr implies a narrow passage and will tend to promote deformation of the seal.

[0078] As illustrated in the, cumulatively or alternatively, the housing 104 of the casing 102 may have a second height Hc and the openings 111, 112 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f each have a third height h, so that the first height Hr of the distributor member 10 is less than the second height Hc of the housing 104 and is greater than the third height h of the openings 111, 112.

[0079] The passage section of the openings 111, 112 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f, already mentioned, is defined as being the first width D for the openings 111 or the second width for the openings 112 multiplied by the third height h.

[0080] Preferably, as illustrated, an angular opening ratio of the channels of the first group over an angular span of the first angular sector occupied by the channels 110a-110d of said first group is greater than 50%, or even 60%, or even substantially 75%. The angular opening corresponds to the value of the opening angle of the channels 110a-110d, that is to say, the angle corresponding to their width D. The angular span corresponds to the value of the angle of the angular sectors P1 mentioned above. This is true of each of the channels of the first group, taken individually, and / or cumulatively by adding the angle values ​​in the numerator as in the denominator. The distribution system according to the invention thus has, in a reduced size, a configuration which is particularly conducive to fluid flow and thus limits pressure losses.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, as will be understood from the above, four of the channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belong to the first group. These are the channels 110a-110d. Two of the channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels belong to the second group. These are the channels 110e, 110f. This provides a six-way valve, or even, with the distribution channel, a seven-way valve, each time particularly compact while exhibiting few pressure losses and requiring a reduced drive torque.

Claims

A distribution system (100) for a fluid, said distribution system (100) being intended to communicate at least some of the branches of a circuit of said fluid with each other according to different configurations of said system, said distribution system (100) comprising a distributor member (10), said distributor member (10) being intended to be movable in rotation about a longitudinal axis (X) in order to selectively serve said branches to be communicated with each other according to angular positions of said distributor member (10), said distribution system (100) comprising a housing (102) defining a housing (104) for said distributor member (10), said housing (102) being provided with a plurality of inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f), called peripheral channels, distributed over a circumference of said housing, at least three channels of the plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110d) belonging to a first group (G1),each channel (110a-110d) of said first group (G1) occupying a first angular sector (P1), and at least two channels of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels (110e-110f) belonging to a second group (G2), each channel (110e-110f) of said second group (G2) occupying a second angular sector (P2), said second angular sector having a dimension smaller than the dimension of said first angular sector,said system being configured so that a rotation of said distributor member (10) allowing a circulation of the fluid between one of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110e-110f) of the second group (G2) and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110d) of the first group (G1) by blocking a circulation between another of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110e-110f) of the second group (G2) and the same of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group (G1) leaves open a circulation between other peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group., The distribution system (100) of claim 1, wherein the first angular sector (P1) is substantially equal to at least 72 degrees. A distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the second angular sector (P2) is substantially equal to at most 36 degrees. Distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f) open laterally into said housing (104) through openings (111, 112). Distribution system (100) according to claim 4, wherein the openings (111) of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110d) of the first group (G1) have a first width (D) and the openings (112) of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110e-110f) of the second group (G2) have a second width (d), said first width (D) being greater than said second width (d). Distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 4 or 5, wherein the openings of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110d) of the first group (G1) have a first passage section (S1) and the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110e-110f) of the second group (G2) have a second passage section (S2), said first passage section (S1) being of a dimension greater than the dimension of said second passage section (S2). The dispensing system (100) of claim 5, wherein the ratio of the first width (D) to the second width (d) is between 1 and 5. Distribution system (100) according to claim 6, wherein the ratio of said first section (S1) to said second section (S2) is between 1 and 5. Distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 6 or 8, wherein said first and / or second sections (S1, S2) are substantially between 110 mm² and 490 mm². Distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein said distributor member (10) comprises a body (12) having one or more first chambers (24) opening radially so that the angular positions of the body (12) determine a passage of the fluid between the different peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f) of the distribution system (100), through the or at least one of the first chambers (24). Distribution system (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein said distributor member (10) has a distribution channel (22) for the fluid, extending axially along the longitudinal axis (X), and a second chamber (25) communicating with said distribution channel (22), said second chamber opening radially, so that at least some of the angular positions of the body determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel (21), called axial, and at least one of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f) of the distribution system (100), through said second chamber (25) and said distribution channel (22). Distribution system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said body (12) comprises on the one hand first and second branches (28a, 28b) connected to each other at a central part (26), said branches extending from said central part to lateral edges (18) of said body, and on the other hand guides (29) placed angularly between the first and second of said branches, in the vicinity of one of said lateral edges (18). A dispensing system (100) according to claim 12, taken in its connection with claim 11, wherein two of the first branches (28a) define said second chamber (25). Distribution system (100) according to claim 12, taken in its connection with claim 10, in which one of the first branches (28a) and one of the second branches (28b) define, together with at least one of the guides (29) placed angularly between the two branches (28a, 28b) in question, at least one of said first chambers (24). Dispensing system (10) according to any one of claims 10 or 11, wherein said dispensing member (10) is configured so that a passage section between one of the chambers (24, 25) and one of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110d) of the first group (G1) and a passage section between the same of the chambers (24, 25) and one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110e-110f) of the second group (G2) is substantially identical in at least one of said angular positions. System according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the dispensing member comprises a body (12) having an external diameter (Ør) and a first height (Hr), the ratio of said external diameter (Ør) and said first height (Hr) defining a parameter (R) of between 0.6 and 2.

7. The dispensing system (100) of claim 16, said dispensing system comprising a single dispensing stage. Dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 16 or 17, claim 16 being taken in its connection with claim 4, wherein said housing (104) of the casing (102) has a second height (Hc) and the openings (111, 112) of said inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f) each have a third height (h), so that the first height (Hr) of the dispensing member (10) is less than said second height (Hc) of the housing and greater than said third height (h) of the openings (111, 112). A distribution system (100) according to any preceding claim wherein four of the channels (110a-110d) of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels belong to the first group (G1) and / or two of the channels (110e-110f) of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels belong to the second group (G2). Distribution system (100) according to any one of the preceding claims in which an angular opening ratio of the channels (110a-110d) of the first group (G1) over an angular span of the first angular sector occupied by the channels (110a-110d) of said first group (G1) is greater than 50%, or even 60%, or even substantially 75%.

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