Thermal regulation device, in particular for a motor vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to a thermal regulation device comprising a circuit (200) of first heat-transfer fluid, said circuit (200) of first heat-transfer fluid comprising a distribution system (100) for distributing said first heat-transfer fluid having a plurality of distribution orifices (120a-120g) for distributing said first heat-transfer fluid, said circuit (100) of first heat-transfer fluid furthermore comprising a plurality of branches (250a-250f) respectively connected to one of said distribution orifices (120a-120f), said distribution system (100) being intended to make at least some of said branches (250a-250f) communicate with one another according to various configurations of said system, said distribution system (100) comprising a distributor member (10), said distributor member being intended to be rotationally movable about a longitudinal axis (X) in order to selectively serve said branches (250a-250f) that are to be made to communicate with one another depending on angular positions of said distributor member (10). Said circuit of first heat-transfer fluid is configured to dissipate or supply heat at an energy storage system exchanger (202), or, if necessary, an electric system exchanger (210), using, in addition to said distribution system, only two pumps (208, 212) and relying solely on an exchange of heat at a bi-fluid exchanger (204) and at a first external exchanger (206).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: THERMAL REGULATION DEVICE, PARTICULARLY FOR MOTOR VEHICLES

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to a thermal regulation device, in particular for a motor vehicle.

[0005] Technical background

[0006] Fluid circuits are known that allow thermal conditioning of different parts or areas of a motor vehicle, in particular its batteries and / or its passenger compartment. With the proliferation of hybrid or electric engines, these circuits have numerous branches in order to meet the thermal management needs of the vehicle in various operating modes.

[0007] 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.

[0008] Rotary valves have also been proposed that allow the connection of numerous inlets / outlets in order to offer more possibilities for fluid circulation between the branches of the circuits compared to standard two-, three- or four-way valves. However, there remains a need to improve the associated circuits in order to limit their complexity while retaining a large number of possible operating modes.

[0009] Summary of the invention

[0010] The present invention aims to at least partially overcome the drawbacks stated above and to this end proposes a thermal regulation device comprising a circuit of first heat transfer fluid, said circuit of first heat transfer fluid comprising a distribution system of said first heat transfer fluid having a plurality of distribution orifices of said first heat transfer fluid, said circuit of first heat transfer fluid further comprising a plurality of branches respectively connected to one of said distribution orifices, said distribution system being intended to make at least some of said branches communicate with each other according to different configurations of said system, said distribution system comprising a distributor member,said distributor member being intended to be movable in rotation around a longitudinal axis in order to selectively serve said branches to be communicated with each other according to angular positions of said distributor member,

[0011] - a first of said branches comprising a heat exchanger, called an electrical energy storage system,

[0012] - a second of said branches being connected to an exchanger, called bifluid, intended to exchange heat with a refrigerant fluid,

[0013] - a third of said branches comprising an exchanger, called the first external exchanger, intended to exchange heat with a second heat transfer fluid,

[0014] - a fourth of said branches comprising a first pump and, possibly, a heat exchanger, called an electrical system,

[0015] - a fifth of said branches being connected to said two-fluid exchanger,

[0016] - a sixth of said branches comprising a second pump, said first heat transfer fluid circuit being configured to dissipate or supply heat to said energy storage system exchanger, or even, where appropriate, to said electrical system exchanger, using only one and / or the other of said two pumps and a heat exchange at said two-fluid exchanger and / or said first external exchanger.

[0017] A two-fluid exchanger means an exchanger allowing heat exchange between a heat transfer fluid and a refrigerant fluid.

[0018] The invention, by using a single valve, in this case the multi-way distribution system, two pumps and no more, a single dual-fluid exchanger and without resorting to a heat exchange between different heat transfer fluid loops, makes it possible to limit the complexity of the first heat transfer fluid circuit and the pressure losses while leaving numerous operating modes possible. The above does not, however, exclude the presence of heat exchangers, intended for a heat exchange between the first heat transfer fluid and a heat transfer fluid circulating in a circuit dedicated to the members to be thermoregulated such as one or more dedicated circuits for the electrical energy storage system and / or the electrical system. The device according to the invention may further comprise one or more of the characteristics below,taken in isolation from each other or in combination with each other: said first heat transfer fluid circuit is configured so that said first fluid circulates from and to the distribution system by passing through said two-fluid exchanger without passing through one of the pumps, a seventh of said branches is configured to bypass the third branch, said first heat transfer fluid circuit is configured so that one of the angular positions of the distributor member, called the first position, makes it possible to form a first loop comprising said first, second, fifth and sixth branches and a second loop comprising said third and fourth branches, said first branch or said sixth branch further comprises a heat exchanger, called an electric heat exchanger, intended to heat said first fluid using an electric current,said device is configured so that said sixth branch supplies said first branch with first heat transfer fluid in all angular positions of said distributor member, said device comprises a point of divergence, located at a first end of said fourth branch, said first end of the fourth branch is opposite a second end of said fourth branch connected to said distribution system, said point of divergence is connected to said third branch and to said seventh branch, said device is configured so that said first heat transfer fluid is a coolant, said device is configured so that said second heat transfer fluid is a first air flow, called external, said device comprises a refrigerant circuit, said refrigerant circuit comprises said two-fluid exchanger,said refrigerant circuit comprises a main loop comprising, in a direction of circulation of said refrigerant in said main loop, a compressor, an exchanger, called the first internal exchanger, and said two-fluid exchanger, said first internal exchanger being intended for heat exchange between said refrigerant and a second air flow, called the internal, said main loop comprises a branch, called the main, provided with said compressor and said first internal exchanger, said refrigerant circuit comprises a first bypass branch, located in parallel with said main branch, said first bypass branch comprising an exchanger, called the second external exchanger, intended to exchange heat between said refrigerant and said external air flow, said refrigerant circuit comprises a second bypass branch, located in parallel with said main branch,said second branch comprising an exchanger, called the second internal exchanger, intended to exchange heat between said refrigerant fluid and said internal air flow, said refrigerant circuit comprises a third bypass branch, said device being configured so that the refrigerant fluid circulates in series in said main branch, in a part comprising said second external exchanger of said first bypass branch and in said third bypass branch, said distributor member comprises a body having: o a first fluid distribution channel, extending axially along the longitudinal axis, and o a first chamber communicating with said first distribution channel, said first chamber opening radially, so that angular positions of said body determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel, called axial, and at least one of the inlet and / or outlet channels,said peripherals, of the distribution system, through the first chamber and the first distribution channel, the first distribution channel is centered on the longitudinal axis, the first chamber is intended to communicate with at most one of the peripheral channels, regardless of the angular position of the body; the body has one or more second chambers opening radially so that angular positions of said body determine a passage of the fluid between different of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels of said distribution system, through the or at least one of the second chambers, the first and / or second chambers extend angularly around the longitudinal axis, the body comprises branches connected together at a central portion, said branches extending from said central portion to lateral edges of said body, said branches defining at least one of said chambers,said distribution system forms a valve, said valve comprises a housing defining a housing for said distributor member, said housing being provided with said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels.,

[0019] Brief description of the figures

[0020] 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:

[0021] [Fig.1] schematically illustrates an example of a regulation device according to the invention, used according to a first operating mode,

[0022] [Fig.2] schematically illustrates a second mode of operation of the regulation device of figure 1,

[0023] [Fig.3] schematically illustrates a third mode of operation of the regulation device of figure 1,

[0024] [Fig.4] schematically illustrates a fourth mode of operation of the regulation device of figure 1,

[0025] [Fig.5] schematically illustrates a fifth mode of operation of the circuit of Figure 1.

[0026] [Fig.6] schematically illustrates in perspective an example of a distributor member of a distribution system of a thermal regulation device according to the invention, [Fig.7] schematically illustrates along a cross-sectional plane the distributor member of figure 6,

[0027] [Fig.8] is an exploded view of the distribution system comprising the distributor member of Figure 6,

[0028] [Fig.9] schematically illustrates in perspective the distribution system of figure 8,

[0029] [Fig. 10] is an exploded view of another distribution system comprising the distributor member of Fig. 6,

[0030] [Fig. 1 1 ] schematically illustrates along an axial section plane the distribution system of figure 10.

[0031] In these figures, the same reference corresponds to identical or similar elements.

[0032] Detailed description of the invention

[0033] It should first be noted that the terms upstream and downstream used in the following description refer to the direction of circulation of the fluid in question. Furthermore, the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. are only used to distinguish the components concerned from each other and do not indicate either an order or a possible importance of said components.

[0034] As illustrated in Figures 1 to 5, the invention relates to a thermal regulation device. It is intended, in particular, for motor vehicles, in particular motor vehicles with electrical motors. It is used, for example, for the thermal regulation of different components or zones of motor vehicles, in particular their batteries, their engine system and / or their passenger compartment.

[0035] Said thermal regulation device comprises a circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid. Said first heat transfer fluid is, for example, a liquid, in particular a mixture of water and an antifreeze product such as glycol. Alternatively, it is, for example, a dielectric fluid such as oil.

[0036] Said circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid comprises a distribution system 100 of said first heat transfer fluid and a plurality of branches 250a-250g respectively connected to one of distribution orifices 120a-120g of said distribution system.

[0037] Said distribution system 100 is intended to make at least some of said branches 250a-250g communicate with each other according to different configurations of said system. Said distribution system comprises for this purpose a distributor member 10 in order to selectively serve said branches 250a-250g to be made to communicate with each other according to positions, in particular angular positions, of said distributor member 10. To this end, said distributor member 10 is preferably intended to be movable in rotation, around a longitudinal axis.

[0038] In said circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid:

[0039] - a first 250d of said branches, in connection with a first 120d of the communication orifices, comprises a heat exchanger 202, called an electrical energy storage system,

[0040] - a second 250b of said branches, in connection with a second 120b of the communication orifices, is connected to an exchanger 204, called bifluid, intended to exchange heat with a refrigerant fluid,

[0041] - a third 250c of said branches, in connection with a third 120c of the communication orifices, comprises an exchanger 206, called the first external exchanger, intended to exchange heat with a second heat transfer fluid, identified here by an arrow illustrated E,

[0042] - a fourth 250th of said branches, in connection with a fourth 120th of the communication orifices, comprises a first pump 208 and, possibly, a heat exchanger 210, called an electrical system,

[0043] - a fifth 250f of said branches, in connection with a fifth 120f of the communication orifices, is connected to said two-fluid exchanger 204,

[0044] - a sixth 250g of said branches, in connection with a sixth 120g of the communication orifices, comprises a second pump 212.

[0045] By heat exchanger 202 of an electrical energy storage system is meant an exchanger allowing both direct and indirect heat exchange with said storage system.

[0046] In other words, according to a first variant, said storage system heat exchanger 202 is integrated into said storage system and allows the first heat transfer fluid to pass through said storage system, cooling or heating it. Said first heat transfer fluid is then preferably a dielectric fluid so that it can be brought into contact with the electrical components of said storage system.

[0047] According to another variant, said device comprises a circuit of a first specific fluid for thermal regulation of said storage system. Said circuit of first specific fluid comprises said storage system heat exchanger 202 and said storage system as well as a first specific pump for driving said first specific fluid. Said storage system exchanger 202 is then intended for a heat exchange between said first heat transfer fluid and said first specific fluid. Said first specific fluid is then preferably a dielectric fluid and the first heat transfer fluid is advantageously water with added antifreeze, subject to the mode of heat exchange with said electrical system as indicated below.

[0048] Said storage system is formed, for example, of one or more electric batteries.

[0049] By heat exchanger 210 of an electrical system is meant an exchanger allowing both direct and indirect heat exchange with said electrical system.

[0050] In other words, according to a first variant, said electrical system heat exchanger 210 is integrated into said electrical system and allows the first heat transfer fluid to pass through said electrical system, cooling or heating it. Said first heat transfer fluid is then preferably a dielectric fluid so that it can be brought into contact with the electrical components of said electrical system.

[0051] According to another variant, said device comprises a circuit of a second specific fluid for thermal regulation of said electrical system. Said circuit of second specific fluid comprises said electrical system heat exchanger 210 and said electrical system as well as a second specific pump for driving said second specific fluid. Said electrical system exchanger 210 is then intended for a heat exchange between said first heat transfer fluid and said second specific fluid. Only said second specific fluid is then preferably a dielectric fluid and the first heat transfer fluid is advantageously water with added antifreeze, subject to the mode of heat exchange with said electrical energy storage system according to what is indicated above.

[0052] Said electrical system comprises, for example, an electrical machine used to power the vehicle and / or an electronic system for controlling said electrical machine.

[0053] Said device is configured so that said second heat transfer fluid is, for example, a first air flow, called external. Said first external exchanger 206 is intended to be located, in particular, at a front face of the vehicle to be crossed by said external air flow E, said external air flow E having previously crossed a grille of the vehicle. Said first external exchanger 206 is formed, for example, of a low temperature radiator.

[0054] According to the invention, in the absence of said electrical system exchanger 210, said first heat transfer fluid circuit 200 is configured to dissipate or supply heat to said energy storage system exchanger 202, using only one and / or the other of said two pumps 208, 212 and a heat exchange at said two-fluid exchanger 204 and / or said first external exchanger 206, depending on the desired operating mode.

[0055] In the presence of said electrical system exchanger 210, said first heat transfer fluid circuit 200 is configured to dissipate or supply heat, at said energy storage system exchanger 202 and / or said electrical system exchanger 210, using only one and / or the other of said two pumps 208, 212 and a heat exchange at said two-fluid exchanger 204 and / or said first external exchanger 206, depending on the desired operating mode.

[0056] In other words, in said first heat transfer fluid circuit 200, regardless of the operating mode, said first and second pumps 208, 212 are the only pumps, said two-fluid exchanger 204 is the only two-fluid exchanger and there is no heat exchange between the first heat transfer fluid and one or more other heat transfer fluids, except with possible circuits dedicated to the members to be thermoregulated such as the specific fluid circuits mentioned above. In addition, said distribution system 100 is the only valve in said first heat transfer fluid circuit 200, which means that said first heat transfer liquid circuit 200 does not include other valves to connect its different branches to communicate with each other or even a non-return valve.

[0057] In this way, the complexity of the first heat transfer fluid circuit 200 and the pressure losses in said circuit 200 are limited while maintaining great flexibility in terms of operating mode thanks to said multi-way distribution system.

[0058] Advantageously, the branches of said first fluid circuit 200 are seven in number. Correlatively, the distribution orifices 120a-120g of the distribution system are seven in number.

[0059] In the illustrated example, the seventh 250a of said branches of the first fluid circuit 200, in connection with the seventh 120a of the communication ports, is configured to bypass the third branch 250c.

[0060] Said device here comprises a divergence point 214, located at a first end of said fourth branch 250e. Said first end of the fourth branch 250e is opposite a second end of said fourth branch 250e connected to said distribution system 100 at its fourth distribution orifice 120e. Said divergence point is connected to said third branch 250c and to said seventh branch 250a respectively by one of their ends opposite the end connected to said distribution system 100 at their third and seventh distribution orifices 120c, 120a.The first heat transfer fluid arriving at a level of the divergence point 214 can therefore, depending on the positions of the distributor member 10, either pass through the first external exchanger 206 by taking the third branch 250c or bypass said first exchanger 206 by taking said seventh branch 250a, before returning to said distribution system 100.

[0061] In said fourth branch 120e, the first pump 208 and said electrical system exchanger 210 are located in series in this order according to the direction of circulation of said first heat transfer fluid from said fourth distribution orifice 120e to said divergence point 214.

[0062] Preferably, said circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid is configured so that said first fluid circulates in said second and fifth branches 250b and 250f, coming from and to the distribution system 100, passing through said two-fluid exchanger 204 without passing through either of the pumps 208, 212.

[0063] Preferably again, said first heat transfer fluid circuit 200 is configured so that one of the angular positions of the distribution member, called the first position, makes it possible to form a first loop 200a comprising said first, second, fifth and sixth branches 250d, 250b, 250f, 250g and a second loop 200b comprising said third and fourth branches 250c, 250e. Such a configuration will be discussed below in relation to FIG. 1.

[0064] Still preferably, said device is configured so that said sixth branch 250g supplies said first branch 250d with first heat transfer fluid in all angular positions of said distributor member 10. In other words, said second pump 212 is located upstream of said exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system according to the direction of circulation of the first heat transfer fluid in said first and sixth branches 250d, 250g.

[0065] According to the illustrated embodiment, said first branch 250d or said sixth branch 250g further comprises a heat exchanger 216, called electric, intended to heat said first fluid using an electric current. It is here located between said second pump 212 and said exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system according to the direction of circulation of the first heat transfer fluid in said first branch and sixth branches 250d, 250g.

[0066] Preferably, said device further comprises a refrigerant circuit 300. Said refrigerant circuit 300 is configured to perform a thermodynamic cycle, in particular with a compression phase, a first heat exchange phase, an expansion phase and a second heat exchange phase. Said refrigerant circuit 300 comprises said two-fluid exchanger 204.

[0067] The refrigerant is, for example, a subcritical fluid, such as those known as R134a or R1234yf. Alternatively, it is a supercritical fluid such as CO2 or R744. Alternatively, it is propane.

[0068] Said refrigerant circuit here comprises a main loop 300a. Said main loop 300a comprises, according to a direction of circulation of said refrigerant in said main loop, a compressor 302, an exchanger 304, called the first internal exchanger, and said two-fluid exchanger 204.

[0069] Said first internal exchanger 304 is intended for a heat exchange between said refrigerant fluid and a second air flow, called internal, identified by an arrow illustrated I. Said internal air flow I is intended to circulate in the passenger compartment for the thermoregulation of the latter. Said first internal exchanger 304 is configured to be positioned in a ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning box positioned, for example, under a dashboard of the vehicle. It is, for example, an internal condenser.

[0070] Said main loop 300a comprises a branch, called main, 310a provided with said compressor 302 and said first internal exchanger 304.

[0071] Said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises here a first bypass branch 310b, located in parallel with said main branch 310a in said loop 300a. Said first bypass branch 310b comprises, for example, an exchanger 306, called second external exchanger, intended to exchange heat between said refrigerant and said external air flow E.

[0072] Said second external exchanger 306 is intended to be located, in particular, at the front face of the vehicle to be crossed by said external air flow E, said external air flow E having previously crossed the grille of the vehicle. Said second external exchanger 306 is formed, for example, of an external evaporator / condenser. It is intended to be located in series or in parallel with the first external exchanger 206 in said external air flow E, for example upstream of said first external exchanger 206 according to the direction of circulation of said external air flow E.

[0073] Said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises here a second bypass branch 310c, located in parallel with said main branch 310a in said main loop 300a. Said second bypass branch comprises an exchanger 308, called the second internal exchanger, intended to exchange heat between said refrigerant and said internal air flow I. Said second internal exchanger 304 is configured to be positioned in the ventilation, heating and / or air conditioning housing. It is located, for example, upstream of said first internal exchanger 308 according to the direction of circulation of said internal air flow I. It is, for example, an evaporator.

[0074] Said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises here a third bypass branch 310d, said device being configured so that the refrigerant circulates in a loop comprising in series said main branch 310a, a part comprising said second external exchanger 306 of said first bypass branch 310b, said third bypass branch 310d and a part of said main loop comprising said two-fluid exchanger 204. Such a circulation of the refrigerant corresponds to that illustrated, in particular, in FIG. 1.

[0075] Said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises here first, second and third expansion valves 315, 316, 317, respectively associated with the two-fluid exchanger 204, at the level of the main loop 300a, with the second external exchanger 306, at the level of the first bypass branch 310b, and with the second internal exchanger 308, at the level of the second bypass branch 310c. Said expansion valves are advantageously configured to, if necessary, cut off the circulation of the refrigerant.

[0076] In the illustrated example, said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises an exchanger 312, called a refrigerant exchanger, configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant and itself. The refrigerant passes through said refrigerant exchanger 312 in respective passes, while it is at different pressure levels in each pass, before passing again into the compressor 302. One of the passes, namely the high-pressure pass, is in the first bypass branch 310b. Another of the passes, namely the low-pressure pass, is in the main branch 310a.

[0077] Said refrigerant circuit 300 further comprises an accumulator 314, making it possible to store said refrigerant. Said accumulator is here located in said main branch 310a downstream of said refrigerant exchanger and upstream of said compressor 302 according to the direction of circulation of the refrigerant in said main loop 300a.

[0078] Said refrigerant circuit 300 also comprises different valves 320a, 320b, 320c allowing circulation of the refrigerant in the main loop, said first, second and / or third bypass branches depending on the desired operating modes.

[0079] The device according to the invention allows for a large number of operating modes thanks to the different positions of the distributor member 10.

[0080] Before describing some of them, an example of a distribution system 100 and its distributor member 10, configured to be used according to the device according to the invention, are described below, in relation to FIGS. 6 to 11.

[0081] In Figure 6, the longitudinal axis around which said distributor member 10 is intended to be movable in rotation is illustrated X. The distributor member 10 comprises 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, define a diameter of the distributor member 10.

[0082] The dispensing member 10 may be configured to rotate in a clockwise and / or counterclockwise direction. The dispensing member 10 may be configured to rotate more than 360°.

[0083] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 further has a first distribution channel 22 for the fluid. This first distribution channel 22 extends axially along the longitudinal axis X. This means that the longitudinal axis X of rotation of the distributor member 12 passes through the distribution channel 22. Advantageously, the first distribution channel 22 is centered on the longitudinal axis X.

[0084] The body 12 also has a first chamber 24 communicating with the distribution channel 22. This first chamber 24 also opens radially.

[0085] In this way, the angular positions of the body 12 that the distributor member 10 can take determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel, called axial 108, and at least one of the inlet and / or outlet channels, called peripheral 110a-110f, of the distribution system 100 (see figures 8 to 11), through the first chamber 24 and the first distribution channel 22.

[0086] The body 12 of the distributor member 10 may further have one or more second chambers 25a-25c opening radially so that at least some of the angular positions of the body 12 that the distributor member 10 can take also determine a passage of the fluid between different of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f of the valve 100, through the or at least one of the second chambers 25a-25c. In the examples illustrated, there are three second chambers 25a-25c.

[0087] The first chamber 24 and / or said second chamber(s) 25a-25c advantageously extend angularly around the longitudinal axis X.

[0088] The distributor member 10, in particular the body 12, has a height h, extending along the longitudinal axis X. It is understood that the height h corresponds to a height on the one hand of the first chamber 24 and on the other hand, when they exist, of the second chamber(s) 25a-25c.

[0089] Advantageously, the first distribution channel 22 communicates with the first chamber 24 over all or part of the height h of the first chamber 24. This communication between the distribution channel 22 and the first chamber 24 is via an opening 23.

[0090] Furthermore, the distributor member 10, in particular the body 12, advantageously comprises a central portion 26. The body 12 may also comprise branches 28a, 28b connected to each other at the central portion 26. The branches advantageously extend substantially radially from the central portion to the lateral edges 18. The chamber(s) 24, 25a-25c are defined between two of the branches. In other words, when the distributor member 10 comprises several chambers 24, 25a-25c, the branches separate the chambers 24, 25a-25c from each other.

[0091] The branches 28a, 28b comprise walls 30a, 30b which extend along the longitudinal axis X from the first plate 14 towards the second plate 16.

[0092] The walls 30a of the branches 28a delimiting the first chamber 24 may be substantially flat. These branches 28a may further comprise external ends, that is to say opposite the central part 26, having a chamfer 32.

[0093] Here, the angular amplitude of the first chamber 24 is between 35 and 45 degrees.

[0094] The branches 28b delimiting at least one of the second chambers 25a-25c can form a curved bottom 34 at the level of the central part 26. This curved bottom 34 can be concave in order to facilitate the flow of the fluid.

[0095] Here, the angular amplitude of each second chamber 25a-25c is between 70 and 90 degrees.

[0096] Advantageously, at least one of the branches 28b comprises a through channel 36 configured to connect one of the chambers with another of the adjacent chambers, as more particularly shown in FIG. 7. With reference to the illustrated example, it is understood that the chamber 25c is composed of two half-chambers connected to each other by the through channel 36 to form an enlarged chamber, corresponding to the chamber 25c.

[0097] As illustrated in Figures 8 to 11, the distribution system 100 is here formed of a valve.

[0098] The valve comprises a housing 102 defining a housing 104 for the distributor member 10. It is understood that the housing 104 then 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 edges 18 of the body 12 are located opposite and in the immediate vicinity, with the clearance, of an internal face of a side wall 106 of the housing 102.

[0099] The housing 102 is provided with peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110, opening laterally into the housing 104. In the illustrated examples, the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f are six in number, namely a first 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.

[0100] Each of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 1 10a-1 10f is arranged as a radial projection from a side wall 106 of the housing 102. Advantageously, the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 1 10a-1 10f are divided into two diametrically opposite groups. It is understood, with reference to the figures, that a first group of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 1 10a-1 10c is positioned on one side of the housing while a second group of peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 1 10d-1 10f is positioned diametrically opposite the first group. Each of the first and second groups may comprise three of the inlet and / or peripheral channels 1 10a-1 10f. The peripheral input and / or output channels 1 10a-1 10f of the same group extend here over an angular interval of at most 120 degrees.

[0101] Depending on its angular position, the first chamber 24 of the distributor member is or is not placed in communication with one or more of said peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels. Said first chamber 24 is intended to communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 1 10a-1 10f. Advantageously, the first chamber 24 is intended to communicate with at most one of the peripheral channels 1 10a-1 10f, regardless of the angular position of the body 12 of the distributor member 10.

[0102] The second chamber(s) 25a-25c communicate radially with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. Advantageously, the second chamber(s) 25a-25c 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.

[0103] The valve 100 may comprise an actuator, not shown, for example a stepper motor, for driving the distributor member 10 in rotation around the longitudinal axis X. The distributor member 10 may then comprise a drive shaft, intended to be engaged with the actuator.

[0104] The valve 100 may also comprise a first annular seal 50, located between the distributor member 10 and the internal face of the side wall 106 of the housing 102. This first annular seal 50 advantageously has openings 52 having a contour corresponding to a contour of an opening part of the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f in the housing 104. Preferably, the first annular seal 50 is mounted fixed.

[0105] The valve 100 may further comprise a plate 112 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 112 may be fixed, in particular welded, to the housing 102. In the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9, the plate 112 is configured to be fixed to a fluid distribution support, not illustrated, in particular to a casing of such a support.

[0106] The plate 112 advantageously comprises slots 114a- 114g located in the axial extension of the first distribution channel 22 and / or the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a- 110f. Thus, the light 1 14a is located in the axial extension of the channel 1 10a, the light 1 14b in the axial extension of the channel 1 10b, the light 1 14c in the axial extension of the channel 1 10c, the light 1 14d in the axial extension of the channel 1 10d, the light 1 14e in the axial extension of the channel 1 10e, the light 1 14f in the axial extension of the channel 1 10f and the light 1 14g is located in the axial extension of the first distribution channel 22. Said lights 1 14a- 1 14g here form the distribution orifices 120a- 120g in communication with the branches 250a-250g of the circuit 200 of the first heat transfer fluid.

[0107] The valve 100 may comprise a second annular seal 60 configured for sealing with the distribution support. In such a case, the plate 112 advantageously comprises, on an external face, a groove 116. This groove 116 is designed to accommodate the second annular seal 60. This second seal 60 may be a flat seal in several parts, for example a part around each light 114a-114f and a part around the light 114g, as illustrated with the embodiment of FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0108] Alternatively, shown in Figures 10 and 11, the valve is intended to be used independently, by being connected to pipes for circulating the first fluid. The plate 112 comprises an axial inlet and / or outlet conduit 108 communicating with the first channel 22. The plate may also comprise peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits 118a-118f communicating respectively with the peripheral inlet and / or outlet channels 110a-110f. The axial inlet and / or outlet conduits 108 or peripheral inlet and / or outlet conduits 118a-118f open onto the distribution orifices 120a-120g in communication with the branches 250a-250g of the circuit 200 of the first heat transfer fluid. They may be oriented along the longitudinal axis X and / or bent.

[0109] The plate 1 12 allows interchangeability of the valve 100 according to the type of distribution support used in a circuit of a fluid, in particular of a heat transfer liquid.

[0110] Referring again to Figures 1 to 5, different modes of operation of the device according to the invention will now be described, in relation to respective positions of said distributor member 10.

[0111] In Figure 1, the illustrated operating mode has the priority objective of dissipating the calories released by said exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system, this via said refrigerant circuit 300, which is more by dedicating the two-fluid exchanger 204 to a heat exchange between the refrigerant and the part of the first heat transfer fluid having passed through said exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system. Such an operating mode makes it possible to cool the batteries during phases of rapid recharging of the latter while such phases result in significant heating of the batteries given the electric currents that said phases involve.

[0112] More specifically, in this first mode of operation, in the first loop 200a of said first circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid, starting from the sixth distribution orifice 120g, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the second pump 212, passes through said electric heat exchanger 216, provided to be inactive, and said heat exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system before returning to the distribution system 100 via the first distribution orifice 120d. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said first distribution orifice 120d with the second distribution orifice 120b. The first heat transfer fluid then continues its route along said first loop 200a passing through said two-fluid exchanger 204 to return to said distribution system 100 via the fifth distribution orifice 120f.In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said fifth distribution orifice 120f with the sixth distribution orifice 120g to form said first loop 200a. By said first loop 200a, the calories released by said exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system in the first heat transfer fluid can thus be transmitted to said two-fluid exchanger 204. In the second loop 200b of said first circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid, starting from the fourth distribution orifice 120e, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the first pump 208, passes through said exchanger 210 of the electrical system, passes through said point of divergence 214 and then takes the third branch 250c to pass through said first external heat exchanger 206 before returning to the distribution system 100 via the third distribution orifice 120c.In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said third distribution orifice 120c with the fourth distribution orifice 120e to form said second loop 200b. It can be seen that, via said second loop 200b, the calories possibly released by said electrical system exchanger 210 can thus be transmitted to said first external exchanger 206 by the first heat transfer fluid. These calories can thus be released into the external air flow E by said first external exchanger 206 without, however, interfering with the calories released by said electrical storage exchanger 200 202 since the latter is placed on the first loop 200a.

[0113] In this first mode of operation, it is understood that there is no circulation of the first heat transfer fluid in said seventh branch 250a, the seventh distribution orifice 120a not being connected to any other through said distributor member 10.

[0114] For its part, the refrigerant fluid, starting from the compressor 302, circulates along the main branch 310a passing through said first internal heat exchanger 304, without however exchanging heat with said internal air flow I, for example using a bypass path provided for this purpose in the heating, ventilation and / or air conditioning unit. Said refrigerant fluid then takes said first bypass branch 310b. For this, the third valve 320c is placed along said main branch 310a and is then closed. In said first bypass branch 310b, said second expansion valve 316 is open but inactive. The refrigerant fluid then passes into said second external exchanger 306 while condensing. It thus releases the calories that it contains, namely those captured at the level of the two-fluid exchanger 204, into said external air flow E.At the outlet of said first bypass branch 310b, it passes into said third bypass branch 310d to return to said main loop downstream of said third valve 320c. For said refrigerant fluid to pass through said third bypass branch 310d at the outlet of said first bypass branch 310b, said first bypass branch 310a is provided with the first valve 320a, then provided to be closed, and said third bypass branch 310d is provided with said second valve 320b, then provided to be open. Along said main loop 300a, the refrigerant fluid then passes through the first expansion valve 315, provided to be active, and said two-fluid exchanger 204 evaporates under the effect of the calories released by said first heat transfer fluid and coming from said exchanger 202 of the electrical storage system. Said refrigerant fluid then returns to the compressor 302 for a new cycle.It is further noted that said refrigerant fluid does not circulate in said second bypass branch 310c, said third expansion valve 317 being closed.

[0115] According to a variant of this first operating mode, the internal air flow I passes through said first internal exchanger 304 which makes it possible to release a first part of the calories captured by the refrigerant fluid at the level of the two-fluid exchanger 204 in said internal air flow I.

[0116] In Figure 2, the illustrated operating mode makes it possible to cool said electrical energy storage system exchanger 202 and said electrical system exchanger 210 by placing them on the same circulation loop of said first refrigerant, called a single loop, by placing said two-fluid exchanger 204 and said first external exchanger 206 on said single loop. The calories released by said electrical energy storage system exchanger 202 and said electrical system exchanger 210 can thus be dissipated both in the refrigerant, by said two-fluid exchanger 202, and in the external air flow E, by said first external exchanger 206, via said first heat transfer fluid. In addition, the power of said pumps 208, 212 is combined. Such an operating mode also makes it possible, if necessary, to cool the passenger compartment using said second internal heat exchanger 308.

[0117] More precisely, in this second mode of operation, in the single loop of first heat transfer fluid, starting from the sixth distribution orifice 120g, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the second pump 212, passes through said electric heat exchanger 216, provided to be inactive, and said heat exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system before returning to the distribution system 100 via the first distribution orifice 120d. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said first distribution orifice 120d with the fourth distribution orifice 120e.The first heat transfer fluid is then driven by the first pump 208, passes through said electrical system exchanger 210, passes through said divergence point 214 and then takes the third branch 250c to pass through said first external heat exchanger 206 before returning to the distribution system 100 via the third distribution orifice 120c. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said third distribution orifice 120c with the second distribution orifice 120b and said first heat transfer fluid then continues its route by passing through said two-fluid exchanger 204 to return to said distribution system 100 via the fifth distribution orifice 120f. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said fifth distribution orifice 120f with the sixth distribution orifice 120g to form said single loop.

[0118] In this second mode of operation, as in the previous one, it is understood that there is no circulation of the first heat transfer fluid in said seventh branch 250a, the seventh distribution orifice 120a not being connected to any other through said distributor member 10.

[0119] For its part, the refrigerant fluid follows the same circulation as in the first operating mode, in the first variant described, with the sole difference that said refrigerant fluid circulates in said second bypass branch 310c, said third expansion valve 317 being open and active.

[0120] Thus, when the refrigerant fluid returns to the main loop downstream of said third valve 320c, it is divided between said main loop 300a to pass into said two-fluid exchanger 204 and said second bypass branch 310c to pass into said second internal exchanger 308 before converging again upstream of said main branch 310a.

[0121] As in the previous operating mode, thanks to said refrigerant circuit 300, the calories released by the first heat transfer fluid in said refrigerant, at said two-fluid exchanger 204, are dissipated in the external air flow E at said second external exchanger 306. At the same time, at said second internal exchanger 308, the internal air flow I is cooled by releasing its calories into said refrigerant.

[0122] In Figure 3, the operating mode illustrated makes it possible to heat the passenger compartment by releasing calories from the refrigerant fluid into the internal air flow I via the first internal exchanger 304. Said calories are preferably obtained from heat recovery from the electrical system exchanger 210 and, through the first external exchanger 206, from the external air flow E, provided at a sufficient temperature, this via the first heat transfer fluid and the two-fluid exchanger 204.

[0123] More specifically, in this third mode of operation, in a first sub-circuit of said first circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid, starting from the sixth distribution orifice 120g, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the second pump 212, passes through said electric heat exchanger 216 and said heat exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system before returning to the distribution system 100 via the first distribution orifice 120d. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 directly connects said first distribution orifice 120d with the sixth distribution orifice 120g. Said first sub-circuit thus allows self-heating of the storage system, the first heat transfer fluid circulating in a closed loop without passing through a heat exchanger which would cause an undesired dissipation of the calories released by said storage system.If necessary, said electric heat exchanger 216 is active to accelerate the heating of said storage system via the first heat transfer fluid and said electric energy storage system exchanger 202.

[0124] In a second sub-circuit of said first circuit 200 of first heat transfer fluid, starting from the fourth distribution orifice 120e, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the first pump 208, passes through said electrical system exchanger 210, passes through said point of divergence 214 and then takes the third branch 250c to pass through said first external heat exchanger 206 before returning to the distribution system 100 via the third distribution orifice 120c. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said third distribution orifice 120c with the second distribution orifice 120b. The first heat transfer fluid then continues its route by passing through said two-fluid exchanger 204 to return to said distribution system 100 via the fifth distribution orifice 120f.In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said fifth distribution orifice 120f with the fourth distribution orifice 120e to form said second sub-circuit. Such circulation allows the heat recovery mentioned above. Even more precisely, such an operating mode is advantageously used when the temperature of the first heat transfer fluid is lower than a threshold temperature and the temperature of the external air flow E is higher than this threshold temperature, the first external heat exchanger 206 then allowing the first heat transfer fluid to recover calories from said external air flow E, which is hotter.

[0125] In this third mode of operation, as in the previous ones, it is understood that there is no circulation of the first heat transfer fluid in said seventh branch 250a, the seventh distribution orifice 120a not being connected to any other through said distributor member 10.

[0126] For its part, the refrigerant fluid, leaving the compressor 302, circulates exclusively along the main loop 300a. In other words, leaving the compressor 302, it passes through said first internal exchanger 304, condensing and dissipating its calories in said internal air flow I, thereby heating the passenger compartment. It then passes through the first expansion valve 315, designed to be active, and said two-fluid exchanger 204, evaporating under the effect of the calories released by said first heat transfer fluid. Said refrigerant fluid then returns to the compressor 302 for a new cycle. For this, here, said third valve 320c is open and said first valve 320a and / or said second regulator 316, or even said second valve 320b, are closed, so that there is no circulation of the refrigerant fluid either in said first or in the third bypass branches 310b, 310d.It is further noted that said refrigerant fluid does not circulate in said second bypass branch 310c, said third expansion valve 317 being closed. Alternatively, such circulation may take place with expansion of said refrigerant fluid in said third expansion valve 317 for the purpose of dehumidification of the internal air flow.

[0127] In Figure 4, the operating mode is identical to the previous one except that the first heat transfer fluid passes through the seventh branch 250a instead of the third branch 250c. For this, here, in the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects the second distribution orifice 120b and said seventh distribution orifice 120a instead of the third distribution orifice 120c.

[0128] In this fourth operating mode, the passenger compartment is heated by releasing calories from the refrigerant fluid into the internal air flow I by the first internal exchanger 304. Said calories then come exclusively from heat recovery from the electrical system exchanger 210. This operating mode is advantageously used to replace the previous one when the temperature of the external air flow E is not sufficient, in particular when it is lower than said threshold temperature. The rest of the operation is preferably unchanged.

[0129] In Figure 5, the operating mode illustrated makes it possible to heat the passenger compartment by releasing calories from the refrigerant fluid into the internal air flow I via the first internal exchanger 304. Said calories are preferably obtained from heat recovery from the exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system and from the exchanger 210 of the electrical system, this via the first heat transfer fluid and the two-fluid exchanger 204.

[0130] More specifically, in this fifth operating mode, the first heat transfer fluid circulates again according to a single loop but different from that of the second operating mode. Starting from the sixth distribution orifice 120g, the first heat transfer fluid is driven by the second pump 212, passes through said electric heat exchanger 216, intended to be active or not, and said heat exchanger 202 of the electrical energy storage system before returning to the distribution system 100 via the first distribution orifice 120d. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said first distribution orifice 120d with the fourth distribution orifice 120e.The first heat transfer fluid is then driven by the first pump 208, passes through said electrical system exchanger 210, passes through said divergence point 214 and then takes the seventh branch 250a to bypass said first external heat exchanger 206 before returning to the distribution system 100 via the seventh distribution orifice 120a. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said seventh distribution orifice 120a with the second distribution orifice 120b and said first heat transfer fluid then continues its route by passing through said two-fluid exchanger 204 to return to said distribution system 100 via the fifth distribution orifice 120f. In the angular position in question, said distributor member 10 connects said fifth distribution orifice 120f with the sixth distribution orifice 120g to form said corresponding single loop.For its part, the refrigerant fluid, leaving the compressor 302, circulates along the main loop 300a. In other words, leaving the compressor 302, it passes through said first internal exchanger 304, condensing and dissipating its calories in said internal air flow I, thereby heating the passenger compartment. It then passes through the first expansion valve 315, provided to be active, and said two-fluid exchanger 204, evaporating under the effect of the calories released by said heat transfer fluid. Said refrigerant fluid then returns to the compressor 302 for a new cycle. For this, here, said third valve 320c is open and said first valve 320a and / or said second regulator 316, or even said second valve 320b, are closed, so that there is no circulation of the refrigerant fluid in either the first or the third bypass branches 310b, 310d.Furthermore, said refrigerant circulates in said second bypass branch 310c, said third expansion valve 317 being open and active for the purpose of dehumidification of the internal air flow I by means of a heat exchange between said refrigerant and said internal air flow at said second internal exchanger 308 which dries said internal air flow I by removing the calories that the latter contains. Alternatively, such circulation in said second bypass branch 310c does not take place, said third expansion valve 317 being closed.

[0131] As already stated, the preceding operating modes, even if they are advantageous, have only been given as an example, the device according to the invention allowing numerous other modes, in particular thanks to said multi-way distribution system 100.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Thermal regulation device comprising a circuit (200) of first heat transfer fluid, said circuit (200) of first heat transfer fluid comprising a distribution system (100) of said first heat transfer fluid having a plurality of distribution orifices (120a- 120g) of said first heat transfer fluid, said circuit (200) of first heat transfer fluid further comprising a plurality of branches (250a-250f) respectively connected to one of said distribution orifices (120a- 120f), said distribution system (100) being intended to make at least some of said branches (250a- 250f) communicate with each other according to different configurations of said system, said distribution system (100) comprising a distributor member (10),said distributor member being intended to be movable in rotation around a longitudinal axis (X) in order to selectively serve said branches (250a-250f) to be made to communicate with each other as a function of angular positions of said distributor member (10), - a first (250d) of said branches comprising a heat exchanger (202), called an electrical energy storage system, - a second (250b) of said branches being connected to an exchanger (204), called bifluid, intended to exchange heat with a refrigerant fluid, - a third (250c) of said branches comprising an exchanger (206), called the first external exchanger, intended to exchange heat with a second heat transfer fluid, - a fourth (250th) of said branches comprising a first pump (208) and, possibly, a heat exchanger (210), called an electrical system, - a fifth (250f) of said branches being connected to said two-fluid exchanger (204), - a sixth (250g) of said branches comprising a second pump (212), said first heat transfer fluid circuit being configured to dissipate or supply heat to said energy storage system exchanger (202), or even, where appropriate, to said electrical system exchanger (210), using only one and / or the other of said two pumps (208, 212) and a heat exchange at said two-fluid exchanger (204) and / or said first external exchanger (206).

2. Device according to any one of the preceding claims wherein said circuit (200) of first heat transfer fluid is configured so that said first fluid circulates from and to the distribution system (100) by passing through said two-fluid exchanger (204) without passing through one of the pumps (208, 212).

3. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said circuit (200) of first heat transfer fluid is configured so that one of the angular positions of the distributor member (10), called the first position, makes it possible to form a first loop (200a) comprising said first, second, fifth and sixth branches (250d, 250b, 250f, 250g) and a second loop (200b) comprising said third and fourth branches (250c, 250e).

4. Device according to any one of the preceding claims in which said first branch (250d) or said sixth branch (250g) further comprises a heat exchanger (216), called electric, intended to heat said first fluid using an electric current.

5. Device according to any one of the preceding claims, in which said device is configured so that said sixth branch (250g) supplies said first branch (250d) with first heat transfer fluid in all angular positions of said distributor member (10).

6. Device according to any one of the preceding claims in which a seventh (250a) of said branches is configured for bypassing the third branch (250c).

7. Device according to claim 6 wherein said device comprises a divergence point (214), located at a first end of said fourth branch (250e), said first end of the fourth branch (250e) being opposite a second end of said fourth branch (250e) connected to said distribution system (100), said divergence point (214) being connected to said third branch (250c) and to said seventh branch (250a).

8. Device according to any one of the preceding claims comprising a refrigerant circuit (300), said refrigerant circuit (300) comprises said two-fluid exchanger (204).

9. Device according to claim 8 wherein said refrigerant circuit (300) comprises a main loop (300a) comprising, according to a direction of circulation of said refrigerant in said main loop (300a), a compressor (302), an exchanger (304), called the first internal exchanger, and said two-fluid exchanger (204), said device being configured so that said first heat transfer fluid is a coolant and said second heat transfer fluid is a first air flow (E), called external, said first internal exchanger (304) being intended for a heat exchange between said refrigerant and a second air flow (I), called internal.

10. Device according to any one of the preceding claims in which said dispensing member (10) comprises a body (12) having: - a first distribution channel (22) for the fluid, extending axially along the longitudinal axis (X), and - a first chamber (24) communicating with said first distribution channel (22), said first chamber opening radially, so that angular positions of said body (12) determine a passage of the fluid between an inlet and / or outlet channel, called axial (108), and at least one of the inlet and / or outlet channels, called peripheral (1 10a-1 10f), of the distribution system (100), through the first chamber (24) and the first distribution channel (22).

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