System for dispensing a fluid

Abstract

The invention relates to a system for dispensing a fluid, the dispensing system being intended to place at least some of the branches of a fluid circuit in communication with one another according to different configurations of the system, the dispensing system comprising a dispensing member (10), the dispensing member being intended to be rotatable about a longitudinal axis in order to selectively serve the branches to be placed in communication with one another according to angular positions of the dispensing member, the dispensing member comprising a body (12) defining a plurality of chambers (24, 25) for circulating the fluid, the body comprising one or more guiding shapes (28a, 28b, 29) for guiding the fluid in the chambers, the one or more guiding shapes having an axial recess (32a, 32b, 32c).

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 flow 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. In addition, the torques required to operate them can be high.

[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 about 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 distributor member comprising a body defining a plurality of fluid circulation chambers, the body comprising one or more shapes for guiding the fluid in the chambers, the guide shape or shapes having an axial recess, in particular a radially open axial recess.

[0006] Thanks to such a configuration, a reduction in the mass of the distributor member is ensured, which makes it possible to reduce the torque required to actuate the distributor member in rotation. Furthermore, the friction produced by the distributor member is reduced by limiting its contact surfaces with the fixed parts of the distribution system located opposite it.

[0007] The dispensing system according to the invention may comprise one or more of the following features, taken in isolation from one another or in combination with one another: the body has a first plate and / or a second rotational guide plate; the guide shape(s) are defined at least in part by branches, these branches being connected to each other at a central part of the dispensing member to at least in part define the chambers; the body comprises a central block defining at least in part the chambers; the central block comprises the branches; the axial recess of the guide shapes extends from the first plate to the second plate; the branches are hollow so that the axial recess is internal to the branches; the internal recess of the branches extends from the first plate to the second plate; the internal recess of the branches is a blind recess, open on the first plate or the second plate;the guide shapes are defined by guides; each of the guides has one of the radially open axial recesses; the branches extend substantially radially from the central part; the first and second plates are parallel to each other and / or perpendicular to the axis of rotation; the central block is between the first and second plates; the branches comprise walls extending along the longitudinal axis from the first plate towards the second plate; the walls of the branches have a substantially identical thickness at all points of the branches; the guides have a substantially identical thickness at all points of the guides; said system comprises a seal; the guide shape(s) have a distal edge intended to be in substantially linear contact with said seal;each distal edge comprises at least one first chamfer and at least one second chamfer such that the first chamfer and the second chamfer together define a rib;the rib has a rounded shape;the rib extends along the longitudinal axis from the first plate towards the second plate;each of the branches is provided with at least one of the distal edges;the distal edges of the branches are opposite the central part;the guides are placed angularly between the first and second of the branches, in the vicinity of a lateral edge of the distributor member;each of the guides is provided with two of the distal edges, provided angularly opposite;one or more of the chambers, called first chambers, are defined by one of the first branches and one of the second branches, together with at least one of the guides;one of the chambers, called second chamber, is defined between the first branches;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 distribution system comprises a housing defining a housing for the distributor member, said seal is located in the housing; the seal is located between the distributor member and the housing, in particular 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 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 second plate of the distributor member; the distribution system comprises a single distribution stage; the housing is provided with a plurality of inlet and / or outlet channels, called peripheral, distributed over angular sectors on a circumference of the housing;said seal is configured to limit the risks of fluid leakage between said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels; said seal is angularly open in line with a first of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits; said distributor member has a first and / or a second peripheral guide edge; said first and / or second peripheral edges are respectively located at the level of said first and second plates; said peripheral edges are rounded; said seal comprises a first and / or a second annular ring to cooperate respectively with the first and / or the second peripheral edge; the first and / or second rings are angularly open in line with said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduit; said seal comprises one or more axial branches connecting the first and second rings;said axial branches respectively connect angular ends of said first and second rings on either side of said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel; the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels open, for example laterally, in particular radially, into the housing through openings, in particular radial; said axial branches are situated angularly on either side of said openings; said seal comprises a body and a covering, said body being fixed to said housing, said covering being in contact with the distributor member; said seal has a smooth interior surface; the housing of the housing has a second height and the openings of the inlet and / or outlet channels each have a third height, so that a first height of the distributor member is less than the second height of the housing and greater than the third height of the openings;the openings of the peripheral input and / or output channels of a first group of peripheral input and / or output channels have a first width and the openings of the peripheral input and / or output channels of a second group of peripheral input and / or output channels have a second width, the first width being greater than the second width;at least one of the angular sectors has a smaller dimension than the other angular sectors;the housing comprises at least five peripheral input and / or output channels;at least three channels of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels belong to the first group, each channel of this first group occupying a first angular sector;at least two channels of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels belong to the second group, each channel of this second group occupying a second angular sector;the second angular sector has a dimension smaller than the dimension of the first angular sector; one or more of the first chambers open radially so that at least some of the 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; the distributor member, in particular the central block, has a fluid distribution channel, extending axially along the longitudinal axis, and a second of said chambers 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 first angular sector is substantially equal to at least 72 degrees; the second angular sector is substantially equal to at most 36 degrees; the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels are six in number; the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group are angularly spaced regularly; the first and second plates are parallel to each other and / or perpendicular to the axis of rotation; the first and second plates are located on either side of the first chambers along the longitudinal axis; the distributor member has a plane of symmetry; 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;the first chambers are two in number; the distributor member is configured to rotate through less than 360 degrees, or even less than 300 degrees; 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 is 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 the circulation between the other of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the second group and the same of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group leaves open the circulation between other peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of the first group; 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 respectively open onto the distribution orifices; the housing has fixing platforms distributed over a circumference of the housing;the platforms have through holes for fixing; the platforms have recesses.; 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] schematically illustrates in perspective a distributor organ of the distribution system of the,

[0011] schematically illustrates in perspective according to a transverse section plane the distributor organ of the,

[0012] schematically illustrates along an axial sectional plane the housing of the distribution system of the,

[0013] resumes the top view,

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

[0015] schematically illustrates according to a cross-sectional plane a second distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system,

[0016] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane a third distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system,

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

[0018] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane a fifth distribution position of the distributor member in the distribution system of the

[0019] illustrates in perspective a joint of the system according to the.

[0020] In these figures, the same reference corresponds to identical or similar elements. Detailed description of the invention

[0021] With reference to Figures 1 to 4, 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 may have a plurality of fluid distribution orifices, not illustrated. These distribution orifices are intended to be respectively connected to the branches of the circuit.

[0022] The distribution system 100 comprises a distributor member 10 which 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 10.

[0023] The distributor member 10 further comprises a body 12 defining a plurality of chambers 24, 25 for circulating the fluid. The body 12 comprises one or more guide shapes 28a, 28b, 29 for guiding the fluid into the chambers 24, 25. These guide shapes 28a, 28b, 29 also have an axial recess 32a, 32b, 32c. Advantageously, one or more of these axial recesses, here the recesses 32c, are open radially towards the outside of the body 12.

[0024] Each of the guide shapes 28a, 28b, 29 advantageously has a distal edge 34 intended to be in contact in a substantially linear manner with a seal of the system.

[0025] With reference to figures 2 and 3 which represent the distributor member 10 according to the invention, the body 12 of the distributor member may optionally comprise a first plate 14 and / or a second plate 16 for guiding rotation, advantageously parallel to each other and / or perpendicular to the longitudinal axis X, connected by the body 12. The body 12 has a lateral edge 18 defined in the present example at the level of a fictitious cylinder connecting peripheral edges 20 of the plates 14, 16. The distal edge(s) 34 are located at the level of said fictitious cylinder.

[0026] The axial recess 32a, 32b, 32c of the guide shapes 28a, 28b, 29 advantageously extends from the first plate 14 in the direction of the second plate 16, along the longitudinal axis X.

[0027] Each distal edge 34 may comprise at least one first chamfer 35a and at least one second chamfer 35b, such that the first chamfer 35a and the second chamfer 35b together define a rib 36. In use, this rib 36 locally compresses the seal of the distribution system 100.

[0028] The first and second chamfers 35a, 35b also have the advantage of preventing the distributor member 10 from becoming blocked during rotation. Indeed, during rotation of the distributor member, the distal edges 34 of the guide shapes must pass through the openings, possibly rectangular, in the seal corresponding to the openings 111, 112 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. Without these chamfers 35a, 35b, the distributor member 10 would risk blocking an edge of the seal and / or creating hard points during rotation.

[0029] This rib 36 may have a rounded shape. This has the advantage of not damaging the seal when in use the rib 36 rubs against it, because the rib 36 does not have a sharp edge. In this way, the service life of the seal can be improved, which ensures better sealing.

[0030] The rib 36 can extend along the longitudinal axis X from the first plate 14 towards the second plate 16 by connecting their peripheral edges 20.

[0031] Advantageously, the peripheral edges 20 of each plate are rounded. This has the same advantages as for the rounded rib(s) 36.

[0032] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 has an external diameter Ør and a first height Hr. Advantageously, 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.

[0033] 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.

[0034] It is understood that having a high external diameter Ør compared to the first height Ør 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.

[0035] 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.

[0036] 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.

[0037] It should also be noted that for 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, described later.

[0038] The distribution system 100 may also comprise 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. The lateral edge 18 of the body 12 is located opposite and in the immediate vicinity, with the clearance, of an internal face of a side wall 106 of the housing 102.

[0039] It is understood that the first and second plates 14, 16, when present, have a diameter substantially identical to the external diameter Ør of the distributor member 10 and are configured to participate in its rotational guidance in the housing 104 of the housing 102. It is in particular they which, with the distal edges 34, are capable of generating the friction that the invention proposes to limit. The value Hr involved in the calculation of the parameter R takes into account or not the thickness of the plates 14, 16. It is measured, for example, between a median plane of the first plate 14 and a median plane of the second plate 16.

[0040] 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 degrees.

[0041] With reference to the, the body 12 of the distributor member 10 may have a central block 12' defining at least in part the chambers 24, 25. This central block 12' may be comprised between the first plate 14 and the second plate 16. The body 12, and in particular this central block 12', may comprise branches 28a, 28b connected together at a central part 26 of the distributor member 10 to define at least in part the chambers 24, 25. These branches 28a, 28b advantageously extend substantially radially from the central part 26 to the lateral edge 18.

[0042] Advantageously, the branches 28a, 28b at least partly define the guide shapes. Each of the branches 28a, 28b is provided with at least one of the distal edges 34, here two of the distal edges 34, provided at two opposite angular ends of the branches 28a, 28b. As will be understood, the distal edges 34 of the branches 28a, 28b are radially opposite the central portion 26.

[0043] Advantageously, the branches 28a, 28b are hollow so that some of the axial recesses 32a, 32b are internal to the branches 28a, 28b. This means that each internal recess 32a, 32b of the branches 28a, 28b has a closed contour so that the fluid cannot penetrate inside the recess in question. In particular, the internal recesses 32a, 32b of the branches 28a, 28b may be formed by angular sectors and bordered by an internal edge, for example the central part 26, an external edge and two radial edges. For example, the walls 30a, 30b, 30c connect the internal and external edges. The external edge extends here between two of said distal edges 34 of the same branch.

[0044] The internal recess 32a, 32b of the branches 28a, 28b may extend from the first plate 14 to the second plate 16, along the longitudinal axis X. This internal recess 32a, 32b may be a blind recess, i.e. open on only one side. This allows the distributor member 10 to retain a certain rigidity. In particular, the internal recess 32a, 32b may be open on the first plate 14 or the second plate 16, as more particularly visible in the. This facilitates the molding of the distributor member 10.

[0045] The guide shapes can also be defined by guides 29. These guides 29 are advantageously placed angularly between the first and second branches 28a, 28b, in the vicinity of the lateral edge 18 of the distributor member 10. Advantageously, each of the guides 29 is provided with two of the distal edges 34 angularly opposite.

[0046] Advantageously, each of the guides 29 has one of the radially open axial recesses 32c. In other words, the axial recess 32c, in the configuration of the distribution system 100, is open onto the housing 104 of the casing 102, described later. This makes it possible to limit the contact surface with the seal, and thus to reduce the necessary actuation torque. It is understood that the fluid does not circulate in this radially open axial recess, the fluid passing to the other side of the guide 29.

[0047] One or more of the chambers, called first chambers 24, are defined by one of the first branches 28a and one of the second branches 28b, together with at least one of the guides 29 placed angularly between the two branches 28a, 28b in question. One of the chambers, called second chamber 25, is defined between the first branches 28a. The branches 28a, 28b delimiting the chambers 24, 25 advantageously 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.

[0048] 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.

[0049] 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, this angle being able to form an edge or be rounded.

[0050] Advantageously, the angular amplitude α of each first chamber 25 is between 120 and 150 degrees.

[0051] The walls 30a, 30b, 30c of the branches 28a, 28b advantageously have a thickness that is substantially identical at all points of the branches 28a, 28b, with the exception of their distal edges 34 which form a thinning. These walls 30a, 30b, 30c may be substantially flat.

[0052] Advantageously, the guides 29 have a thickness that is substantially identical at all points of the guides 29, with the exception of their distal edges 34 which form a thinning.

[0053] An identical thickness at all points of the branches 28a, 28b and / or the guides 29 has the advantage of facilitating the injection of material during the molding of the distribution member. In this way, problems of deformation of the part, here the distribution member, during its manufacture are avoided.

[0054] 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.

[0055] The internal walls 31a, 31b of the guides 29 may be substantially flat. They are located opposite the axial recess 32c of the guide 29 in question.

[0056] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and / or second guide forms and / or branches 28a, 28b also have one of the radially open axial recesses, this between their respective distal edges 34. It is understood that the fluid does not circulate in the radially open axial recesses in question, the fluid passing on either side into the first chambers 24. Said radially open axial recesses are here separated from one of the internal axial recesses 32a, 32b by their external edge.

[0057] The housing 102 is provided with 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 advantageously 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.

[0058] The central block 12' may have the first chamber(s) 24, provided, 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.

[0059] The central block 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.

[0060] The central block 12' also has the second chamber 25 communicating with the distribution channel 22. This second chamber 25 also opens radially.

[0061] The first and / or second chambers 24, 25 advantageously extend angularly around the longitudinal axis X.

[0062] 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.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] Advantageously, the distribution system 100 comprises a single stage. In other words, 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.

[0066] Advantageously, the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f are distributed over angular sectors P1, P2 on a circumference of the housing 102.

[0067] Lamontre a view of the housing 102 according to an axial sectional plane. In this example, the housing 104 of the housing 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.

[0068] Still on the, it can be distinguished that the openings 111 of the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110d of a first group G1 of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f may have a first width D and that the openings 112 of the peripheral input and / or output channels 110e-110f of a second group G2 of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f may have a second width d. The first width D is greater than the second width d.

[0069] In application, the passage section of the openings 111, 112 of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f 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.

[0070] Advantageously, this passage section is configured to be at least substantially equal to the sections of the pipes used in hybrid or electric vehicles, in particular in fluid circuits used for thermoregulation.

[0071] 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.

[0072] Advantageously, the peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110d of the first group G1 are angularly spaced regularly.

[0073] Advantageously, at least three channels 110a-110d of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f belong to the first group G1. Each channel 110a-110d of this first group G1 occupies a given first angular sector P1.

[0074] Advantageously, at least two channels 110e-110f of the plurality of peripheral input and / or output channels 110a-110f belong to the 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.

[0075] 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.

[0076] The housing 102 may also comprise fixing platforms 114 distributed around the periphery of the housing 102. These fixing platforms 114 have through orifices 116, oriented along the longitudinal axis X. These platforms 114 are intended to allow the fixing of the distribution system 100 on an external element, for example a module, in particular by means of screws inserted into the orifices 116 and the external element.

[0077] 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 the other peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110d of the first group G1. This will be developed further in relation to figures 6 and following.

[0078] The distributor member 10 may furthermore be 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, as this will appear better in relation to FIGS. 6 to 10.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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.

[0082] The distribution system 100 may also comprise a seal, illustrated, 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] Different dispensing positions of the dispensing system 100 of Figures 6 to 10 are shown in the following.

[0085] 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.

[0086] 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.

[0087] 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.

[0088] 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.

[0089] 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.

[0090] 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.

[0091] In the example illustrated in Figures 6 to 10, 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.

[0092] 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.

[0093] As better illustrated in Figures 5 and 11, as mentioned above, said system further comprises a seal 200 located in the housing 104 between the distributor member 10 and the housing 102. It is configured to limit the risks of fluid leakage between said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f for a given angular position and / or when moving from one of its angular positions to another.

[0094] Advantageously, said seal 200 is angularly open in line with the first one of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits. This is the inlet and / or outlet conduit 110a. By "angularly open", it is meant that said seal 200, when taken alone, has a configuration allowing its angular ends to be separated from each other, this unlike a seal formed from a complete ring for which this would not be possible. It is noted that this angular interruption is visible but is not visible and it is understood that it limits the friction between the distributor member 10 and the housing 102 compared to a seal which would be formed from a complete ring.

[0095] Said seal 200 comprises a first and / or a second annular ring 202 for cooperating respectively with the first and / or the second peripheral edge 20. The first and / or second rings 202 are angularly open in line with said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduit 110a.

[0096] Said joint 200 comprises one or more axial branches 204a-204e connecting the first and second rings 202. Said branches 204a-204e are located angularly on either side of each of said openings 110a-110f. Two 204a, 202e of said axial branches respectively connect angular ends of said first and second rings 202 on either side of said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel 110a.

[0097] Said seal 200 is fixed to the housing 102. Said housing is here provided for this purpose with axial ribs cooperating with axial grooves 208 formed in said seal 200. As a variant, the grooves are on the housing and the ribs are on the seal.

[0098] Said branches 204a-204e of the joint 200 extend angularly, in particular from 5 to 30°.

[0099] Said seal preferably has a cylindrical cage shape, angularly open. Said cage is here formed of said rings 202 and / or said branches 204a-204e. Passages, in particular rectangular, for the fluid are defined between said rings 202 and / or said branches 204a-204e, in particular opposite said orifices 111, 112.

[0100] Said rods 202 and / or said branches 204a-204e here have material recesses 216, respectively angularly and / or axially elongated. Said material recesses alternately have a point shape, in particular at points of intersection of said rods 202 and / or said branches 204a-204e.

[0101] Advantageously, as illustrated, an inner surface of said seal 200 is smooth. In other words, in the embodiment shown, said material recesses 216 are located on an outer face of said seal 200.

[0102] Said seal 200 comprises, for example, a body 210 and a covering 212. Said body 210 is fixed to said housing 102. Said covering 212 is in sliding contact with the distributor member 10. The body 210 and the covering 212 are integral with each other, in particular by overmolding.

[0103] Said body 210 is, for example, made of elastomer, in particular EPDM, and / or said coating 212 is a material with a sliding effect, in particular PTFE.

[0104] In light of the above, it is understood that the invention makes it possible to ensure a reduction in the mass of the distributor member and therefore a lightening of the distribution system as a whole. In addition, the reduction in the mass of the distributor member makes it possible to reduce the torque required for its rotational actuation.

[0105] Preferably, the invention also makes it possible to ensure reduced contact between the dispensing member and a seal which, in use, is placed between the dispensing member and the housing. In use, the distal edges will locally compress the seal, which makes it possible to ensure sealing while limiting friction. In addition, the reduction in friction makes it possible to reduce the torque required to actuate the dispensing member in rotation.

[0106] The invention also has the advantage of allowing several possibilities for distributing the fluid, with energy savings. Indeed, the change of distribution position with a low amplitude rotation reduces the torque required for the rotation of the distributor member and, consequently, allows the use of less powerful actuators.

[0107] The invention also has the advantage of allowing a reduction in the radial and / or axial size of the distribution system 100. Indeed, this reduction in size can be further improved thanks to the distribution channel 22. 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.

Claims

A distribution system (100) for a fluid, said distribution system (100) being intended to communicate at least some of the branches of a fluid circuit 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 distributor member comprising a body (12) defining a plurality of chambers (24, 25) for circulation of said fluid, said body comprising one or more guide shapes (28a, 28b, 29) for guiding said fluid in said chambers, said guide shape(s) having an axial recess (32a, 32b, 32c), in particular a radially open axial recess (32c). Dispensing system (100) according to claim 1, wherein said body (12) has a first plate (14) and / or a second plate (16) for guiding rotation. Dispensing system (100) according to claim 2, wherein said guide shape(s) are defined at least in part by branches (28a, 28b), said branches being connected to each other at a central part (26) of said dispensing member (10) to at least in part define said chambers (24, 25). A dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 2 or 3, wherein said axial recess (32a, 32b, 32c) extends from the first plate (14) towards the second plate (16). A dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 4, wherein said branches (28a, 28b) are hollow such that the axial recess (32a, 32b) is internal to said branches (28a, 28b). Distribution system (100) according to claim 5, wherein said internal axial recess (32a, 32b) of said branches (28a, 28b) is a blind recess, open on the first plate (14) or the second plate (16). Distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein said branches (28a, 28b) comprise walls (30a, 30b, 30c) extending along the longitudinal axis (X) from the first (14) plate towards the second plate (16). Distribution system (100) according to claim 7, wherein said walls (30a, 30b, 30c) of said branches (28a, 28b) have a thickness which is substantially identical at all points of said branches. Dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein said guide shape(s) are defined at least by guides (29). A distribution system (100) according to claim 9, wherein each of said guides (29) has one of the radially open axial recesses (32c). A distribution system (100) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, wherein said guides (29) have a substantially identical thickness at all points of said guides. Dispensing system according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said guide shape(s) have a distal edge (34) intended to be in substantially linear contact with a seal of said system (100). The delivery system (100) of claim 12, wherein each distal edge includes at least one first chamfer (35a) and at least one second chamfer (35b) such that the first chamfer and the second chamfer together define a rib (36). The dispensing system (100) of claim 13, wherein said rib (36) has a rounded shape. A dispensing system (100) according to claim 14, claim 12 being taken in its connection with claim 2, wherein said rib (36) extends along the longitudinal axis (X) from the first plate (14) towards the second plate (16). A dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 12 to 15, wherein said body (12) comprises a central block (12') at least partially defining said chambers (24, 25). A delivery system (100) according to claim 12, taken in its connection with claim 3, wherein each of said branches (28a, 28b) is provided with at least one of said distal edges (34). Dispensing system (100) according to any one of claims 12 to 14, claim 12 being taken in its connection with claims 3 and 9, in which said guides are placed angularly between first (28a) and second (28b) of said branches, in the vicinity of a lateral edge (18) of the dispensing member (10). A dispensing system (100) according to claim 18, wherein each of said guides (29) is provided with two of said distal edges (34), provided angularly opposite. Distribution system according to any one of claims 12 to 19 comprising a housing (102) defining a housing (104) for the distributor member (10), said housing (102) being provided with a plurality of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f), said seal (200) being located in the housing (104) between the distributor member (10) and the housing (102) to limit the risks of fluid leakage between said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels (110a-110f), said seal (200) being angularly open in line with the first one (110a) of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits (110a-110f). System according to the preceding claim in which said dispensing member (10) has a first and / or a second peripheral guide edge (20), said seal (200) comprising a first and / or a second annular ring (202) to cooperate respectively with the first and / or the second peripheral edge (20). System according to the preceding claim in which the first and / or second rods (202) are angularly open in line with said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduit (110a). System according to any one of claims 21 or 22, claim 20 being taken in its connection with claim 15, said first and / or second peripheral edges (20) being respectively located at the level of the first and / or second plates (14, 16). System according to any one of claims 21 to 23 wherein said joint (200) comprises one or more axial branches (204a-204e) connecting the first and second rods (202). System according to the preceding claim in which two (204a, 204e) of said axial branches respectively connect angular ends of said first and second rods (202) on either side of said first peripheral inlet and / or outlet channel (110a). System according to any one of claims 24 or 25 in which said peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits (110a-110f) open into said housing (104) via radial openings (111, 112), said axial branches (204a-204e) being situated angularly on either side of each of said openings (111, 112). System according to any one of claims 20 to 26 wherein said seal (200) comprises a body (210) and a covering (212), said body (210) being fixed on said housing (102), said covering (212) being in contact with the dispensing member (10). A system according to any one of claims 20 to 27 wherein said seal (200) has a smooth interior surface.

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