Temperature control device

Abstract

The invention relates to a temperature control device (2) for cooling and / or heating at least one component (4), the operation of which is temperature-sensitive, the component being in particular an electronic power module of an inverter or a battery cell, and the temperature control device (2) comprising: - a stack (10) of at least three circulation plates (12), which in particular are brazed together, at least one heat-transfer fluid circuit being arranged in the stack, and the temperature control device (2) having an outer face (8) on which one or more components (4), for example an electronic power module, can be placed, the three circulation plates (12) each comprising at least one stamped shape forming an element for disrupting the flow of fluid in the heat-transfer fluid circuit.

Description

DESCRIPTION Title: Thermal regulation device [1] The present invention relates to a thermal regulation device for cooling and / or heating at least one component whose operation is sensitive to temperature, this component being in particular an electronic power module of an inverter or a battery cell. [2] As part of electrification in the automotive field, many electronic components are being developed or improved for higher power. Generally speaking, the electronics used are impacted by the quality of thermal management because electronic components have a temperature limit for use. Above all, there is a strong correlation between maximum temperature and component price. There are often alternatives that withstand higher temperatures but with a higher cost. Therefore, there is a significant need to optimize the cooling of these electronic components in order to improve durability or reduce the costs related to these components. Electronic components can be, for example, components of an electric machine of the vehicle, components of a DC-DC converter, an on-board charger, an inverter, etc. [3] For some of these components, the heat flux produced by these components is high due to the small surface areas (very small components). It is also required to have homogeneity of maximum temperatures between several heat sources that are the components. Indeed, certain quantities are affected by the temperature (for example the resistance) and the power is distributed in parallel between several power modules. [4] In certain configurations, the liquid cooling circuits of electrical / electronic components, called heat transfer fluid circuits, are arranged in series to optimize compactness (or packaging) but this arrangement generates temperature constraints and minimum flow rate of a heat transfer fluid used to cool these components. [5] The components to be cooled are, for example, switching cell modules of an inverter. This type of component is temperature-sensitive and requires precise thermal management. Until now, a thermal device with a copper base plate with cooling elements in the form of machined pins immersed in a coolant flow enables this management. thermal. In this thermal device, the temperature is not uniform because the arrangement of the pins is the same throughout the plate, imposing a constant heat transfer coefficient. Due to the natural heating of the fluid along the plate, the temperature difference decreases between the fluid and the switching cells, which generates a non-uniform temperature profile at the component level. [6] The present invention aims to remedy these drawbacks, in particular to further improve the thermal regulation of components, in particular to cool them, by proposing thermally efficient solutions with a simpler design and / or less expensive to manufacture, while reducing pressure losses in the heat transfer fluid circuits. [7] The invention thus relates to a thermal regulation device for cooling and / or heating at least one component whose operation is sensitive to temperature, this component being in particular an electronic power module of an inverter or a battery cell, this thermal regulation device comprising: - a stack of at least three circulation plates, in particular brazed together, within which at least one heat transfer fluid circuit is arranged, this thermal regulation device having an external face on which one or more components can be placed, for example an electronic power module, the three circulation plates each comprising at least one stamped shape forming an element for disturbing the flow of fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit. [8] A "drawn shape" means a shape that has been obtained by drawing a plate. [9] The present invention is advantageous insofar as the stack of circulation plates makes it possible to homogeneously cool the external face of the thermal regulation device, in particular thanks to temperature balancing.

[0010] Furthermore, stacking the circulation plates allows for a two-dimensional flow of heat transfer fluid, i.e. essentially in a plane following a direction defined by the stamped shape, which makes it possible to minimize pressure drops that would occur if the flow took place in the three dimensions of space.

[0011] Furthermore, the invention makes it possible to adjust a ratio between the heat exchange between the plates and the heat transfer fluid, on the one hand, and the pressure losses, on the other hand, by increasing or reducing the number of plates stacked together.

[0012] In the case where several electronic components are placed on this external face, in dedicated reception areas, the invention makes it possible to have a profile of homogeneous temperature at the level of the various electronic components. The invention thus makes it possible to optimize the operation of these electronic components thanks to better thermal management. This thus allows for a better balance in terms of temperature.

[0013] The formation of the stamped shape has the advantage of being simple to manufacture and is inexpensive compared to other techniques, particularly conventional machining or laser machining. This stamped shape present in the heat transfer fluid circuit makes it possible to increase the exchange surface between the heat transfer fluid and the circulation plates.

[0014] In summary, the invention allows the device to have optimal thermal performance while reducing the pressure losses of the heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit and the manufacturing cost of the device.

[0015] According to one aspect of the invention, the thermal regulation device is of the monofluid type.

[0016] A single-fluid thermal control device is one in which a single heat transfer fluid circulates in the heat transfer fluid circuit of the device. This is in contrast to a two-fluid device. In this way, the same fluid circulates in all the plates formed by the stack of plates.

[0017] According to one aspect of the invention, the thermal regulation device is of the monofluid type.

[0018] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a collector base configured to participate in the formation of the heat transfer fluid circuit.

[0019] The collector base forms a base of the thermal regulation device.

[0020] According to one aspect of the invention, the collector base comprises a bottom and uprights extending from the bottom defining at least one compartment.

[0021] According to one aspect of the invention, the collector base comprises at least two compartments, including a heat transfer fluid inlet compartment and a heat transfer fluid outlet compartment, these compartments being separated by at least one separating partition arranged between the uprights and extending from the bottom of the collector base.

[0022] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises at least one fluid inlet and at least one fluid outlet to be connected to external conduits.

[0023] According to one aspect of the invention, the collector base is provided with at least one fluid inlet and one fluid outlet configured to be connected to an external fluid inlet tubing and fluid outlet tubing (not shown).

[0024] According to one aspect of the invention, the collector base comprises a distribution channel supplied by the fluid inlet and a discharge channel connected to the fluid outlet.

[0025] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid inlet compartment of the collector base comprises the distribution channel.

[0026] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid outlet compartment of the collector base comprises the discharge channel.

[0027] The presence of the separating partition in the collector base allows a U-shaped circulation of fluid between the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet in the direction perpendicular to the bottom of the collector base.

[0028] The bottom of the collector base is arranged parallel to the plate(s).

[0029] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid inlet compartment and / or the fluid outlet compartment has a substantially triangular shape.

[0030] These inlet and outlet compartments are separated from each other by a longitudinally shaped partition wall. The partition wall forms the large diagonal of the collector base. These inlet and outlet compartments together form a substantially rectangular shape.

[0031] According to one aspect of the invention, the bottom of the collector base forms a base for said compartments of the collector base.

[0032] According to one aspect of the invention, the bottom of the collector base has a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners.

[0033] According to one aspect of the invention, the collector base is in one piece.

[0034] Optionally, the stack of plates further comprises a distribution plate, in particular a flat one, arranged to cover the collector base.

[0035] For example, the only plate that is flat among the plates in the plate stack is the distribution plate. "Flat" means a plate that does not have a stamped shape.

[0036] The distribution plate is particularly designed to cover the collector base so that the inlet and outlet compartments, separated from each other by the dividing wall, are isolated from each other. This distribution plate also allows for good distribution of heat transfer fluid across the plates of the plate stack.

[0037] The distribution plate includes a portion designed to be in contact with the dividing wall of the collector base. In this way, a better seal is ensured between the dividing wall and the collector base.

[0038] It may be provided that the collector base is directly in contact with one of the circulation plates, this circulation plate being provided with said portion arranged to be in contact with the separating partition of the collector base. For example, this portion may be flat while the rest of the circulation plate comprises the stamped shape(s).

[0039] According to one aspect of the invention, the traffic plates comprise several stamped shapes forming several disturbance elements.

[0040] Traffic plates with multiple stamped shapes are stamped traffic plates.

[0041] According to one aspect of the invention, the stamped shape(s) protrude from the same face of each circulation plate.

[0042] Alternatively, the stamped shape(s) extend for some on one face of the circulation plate and for other stamped shapes on the opposite face of the circulation plate.

[0043] According to one aspect of the invention, at least some of the stamped shapes form chevron-shaped, or V-shaped, disruption elements.

[0044] Thus, the traffic plates present, in profile, corrugations or undulations.

[0045] According to one aspect of the invention, the chevron-shaped disturbance elements are arranged in at least one row.

[0046] The circulation plates or the distribution plate, extend over the entire length of the thermal regulation device, and are configured to define at least one fluid circulation cavity, in particular at least two fluid circulation cavities, in particular at least three fluid circulation cavities.

[0047] The stamped shapes, in particular chevron-shaped, of the fluid circulation cavity of the circulation plate are arranged so that the heat transfer fluid can flow, from upstream to downstream, towards the fluid outlet.

[0048] According to one aspect of the invention, each fluid circulation cavity of the circulation plate receives stamped shapes.

[0049] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plates with stamped shapes, or the stamped circulation plates, are arranged one above the other.

[0050] According to one aspect of the invention, the stamped shapes of one of the circulation plates are arranged obliquely relative to the stamped shapes of the other neighboring circulation plate.

[0051] "Arranged obliquely" means that the stamped shapes of the two adjacent traffic plates are not parallel to each other with respect to the longitudinal axis of the adjacent traffic plates.

[0052] According to one aspect of the invention, the stamped shapes of the two neighboring circulation plates extend in the same direction relative to each other.

[0053] Alternatively, the stamped shapes of the two neighboring traffic plates extend in the opposite direction to each other.

[0054] Alternatively, the stamped shapes of the two neighboring traffic plates are offset from each other.

[0055] According to one aspect of the invention, the stamped shapes have a regular pitch.

[0056] Alternatively, the stamped shapes have an irregular pitch.

[0057] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plate or the distribution plate comprises at least one separating wall, or even two separating walls, each separating wall being arranged to separate at least partially, preferably completely, the two successive fluid circulation cavities.

[0058] In particular, the presence of two separation walls makes it possible to optimize the isostatism of said plate.

[0059] Advantageously, a fluid circulation cavity is surrounded by two separating walls so that the heat transfer fluid passing through said cavity is guided by these separating walls towards the fluid outlet.

[0060] Thus, the heat transfer fluid passes from one opening to another, crossing said circulation cavity without this same fluid being able to cross said other cavities.

[0061] Alternatively, the circulation plate or the distribution plate comprises at least one separating wall arranged to partially separate said two successive cavities.

[0062] Thus, the heat transfer fluid can circulate between said cavities.

[0063] The stamped shapes in the fluid circulation cavities are identical from one fluid circulation cavity to another.

[0064] Alternatively, the stamped shapes in the fluid circulation cavities are offset from each other from one fluid circulation cavity to the next.

[0065] The height of the stamped shapes is smaller than the space between two neighboring traffic plates.

[0066] Alternatively, the stamped shapes have heights chosen so that the stamped shapes of two neighboring circulation plates are in contact by their respective peaks or respective hollows.

[0067] Alternatively, the stamped shapes have heights chosen so that the stamped shapes of two neighboring circulation plates are in contact by the peaks of one with the hollows of the other.

[0068] Apex means a point that is highest in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined in relation to the plate. The term "trough" is used in contrast to summit.

[0069] According to one aspect of the invention, the tops of the stamped shapes are all at the same height.

[0070] According to another aspect of the invention, the tops of the stamped shapes are at different heights.

[0071] Alternatively, the stamped shapes of the two successive plates are arranged so that the tops of the stamped shapes of two neighboring circulation plates are in staggered contact with each other.

[0072] The stack of plates comprises at least two plates each comprising at least one stamped shape, preferably at least three plates each comprising at least one stamped shape.

[0073] According to one aspect of the invention, the heat transfer fluid circuit comprises at least one heat transfer fluid circulation stage defined between the successive circulation plates or between one of the circulation plates and an internal face of the cover.

[0074] Thus the heat transfer fluid flows over several stages.

[0075] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid circulation stage is formed by assembling two plates between which one or more fluid circulation channels are formed defining the fluid flow path in this stage.

[0076] According to one aspect of the invention, at least one of the plates of the pair of plates which forms a stage comprises stamped shapes to produce this or these channels.

[0077] According to one aspect of the invention, the floors are formed by pairs of plates that are distinct from one floor to another. Alternatively, neighboring floors share a common circulation plate.

[0078] According to one aspect of the invention, the heat transfer fluid circulation stage is substantially parallel to the external face of the device, in particular to the external face of the cover.

[0079] The plates used to form the stage in the present invention can be made relatively simply, for example, both plates can be stamped. Of course, one of them can be a flat plate and the other a stamped plate.

[0080] It is therefore possible to do without laser cutting to produce more complex plates.

[0081] According to one aspect of the invention, staging the flow also makes it possible to have, for each stage, a flow in two dimensions, that is to say essentially in a plane, which makes it possible to minimize pressure drops which would occur if the flow took place in the three dimensions of space.

[0082] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid circulation stages have different heat transfer fluid paths from one stage to another.

[0083] Alternatively, the heat transfer fluid in the fluid stage makes a single pass between an inlet opening to the outlet opening.

[0084] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid paths in the fluid circulation stage may each comprise several fluid passes.

[0085] In other words, in the stage, the fluid makes several passes so that the fluid path passes successively two or three times, or even more.

[0086] According to one aspect of the invention, the respective fluid paths of the two successive stages have symmetry by a 180° rotation in a plane parallel to the stages.

[0087] According to one aspect of the invention, the fluid circuit further comprising at least a first stage (E1) for circulating heat transfer fluid and a second stage (E2) for circulating heat transfer fluid, these first and second stages for circulating heat transfer fluid being substantially parallel to the external face, and the first stage (E1) for circulating heat transfer fluid being arranged between this external face and the second stage (E2) for circulating heat transfer fluid, the circulation of fluid taking place in parallel between the two stages (E1, E2), according to a circulation perpendicular to the main longitudinal direction in which each plate of the device extends.

[0088] The invention thus makes it possible to pass the heat transfer fluid through at least one stage, or even several stages, in such a way that the heat transfer fluid, which is still cold, can be in contact with the reception areas of the electronic components.

[0089] According to one aspect of the invention, at least two or three receiving zones are formed on the external face, in particular of identical dimensions.

[0090] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a stack of at least four plates intended to be placed on the collector base, said stack comprises: - a distribution plate, in particular flat, serving as a base; - at least three circulation plates, each comprising stamped shapes; and a cover.

[0091] The successive traffic plates have stamped shapes on both sides.

[0092] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover comprises at least one stamped shape on its internal face which is in direct contact with the heat transfer fluid.

[0093] For example, only the face of the cover that is in direct contact with the heat transfer fluid has the stamped shapes.

[0094] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate(s) comprise at least one opening through which the heat transfer fluid can circulate.

[0095] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate(s) comprise at least one row of openings.

[0096] According to one aspect of the invention, the rows of openings are arranged to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid in a direction perpendicular to the plate.

[0097] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate(s) comprise at least one opening through which the heat transfer fluid can circulate.

[0098] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening is arranged to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid in a direction perpendicular to the plate.

[0099] This opening is made, for example, by cutting the plate.

[0100] According to one aspect of the invention, the opening(s) on the plate are arranged on at least one of the peripheries of the plate.

[0101] The two peripheries of the plate are symmetrical about a mirror plane passing through the center of the plate.

[0102] The "peripheries" refer to the end zones near the edge of the plate. Conversely, the "center" of the plate relative to the peripheries refers to a central position of the plate relative to the edge of the plate.

[0103] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plate comprises at least one row of inlet openings.

[0104] According to one aspect of the invention, the distribution plate comprises at least one row of inlet openings and at least one row of outlet openings.

[0105] According to one aspect of the invention, the rows of inlet openings are located mirror-symmetrically relative to the rows of outlet openings, in particular relative to the longitudinal axis of the distribution plate.

[0106] According to one aspect of the invention, the rows of inlet openings are located on the peripheries of the plate.

[0107] Throughout the description of the invention, except where explicitly stated, the term "plate", each "plate" or "plates" means a circulation plate or a distribution plate. This generic term is used so that the characteristics corresponding to this term can be interchangeable between the circulation plate and the distribution plate.

[0108] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plate comprises a single fluid circulation cavity.

[0109] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plate comprises at least one row of outlet openings.

[0110] In other words, the circulation plate does not include any separating walls, in order to increase the heat exchange surface between the heat transfer fluid and the circulation plates 120.

[0111] This unique fluid circulation cavity improves heat exchange compared to the case where there are walls between the cavities. The thermal power is proportional to the product of the exchange surface and the exchange coefficient. A single plate without walls maximizes the exchange surface and therefore the thermal performance.

[0112] According to one aspect of the invention, the circulation plate comprises a single row of inlet openings and / or a single row of outlet openings.

[0113] The term "first" or "first" means a stage, a plate, or an element which is located closest to the collector base and, in particular, the furthest upstream in relation to the direction of circulation of heat transfer fluid coming from the heat transfer fluid inlet, during the first path of the heat transfer fluid (not including any return of heat transfer fluid to the fluid outlet). For example, the first circulation plate is closer to the collector base than the second circulation plate.

[0114] Conversely, "last" or "last" means a stage, a plate, or an element which is located closest to the cover and, in particular, the furthest downstream in relation to the direction of circulation of the heat transfer fluid coming from the heat transfer fluid inlet, during the first path of the heat transfer fluid (not counting any possible return of heat transfer fluid to the fluid outlet). For example, the last circulation plate is closer to the cover than the penultimate circulation plate.

[0115] Alternatively, only the last stage defined between the internal face of the cover and the last circulation plate is in fluid communication through at least one inlet opening with the heat transfer fluid inlet.

[0116] In this way, the heat transfer fluid passes directly from the heat transfer fluid inlet to the stage defined between the internal face of the cover and the last circulation plate.

[0117] Alternatively, only the last stage defined between the internal face of the cover and the last circulation plate is in fluid communication through at least one outlet opening with the heat transfer fluid outlet.

[0118] In this way, the heat transfer fluid passes directly from the heat transfer fluid outlet to the stage defined between the internal face of the cover and the last circulation plate.

[0119] The heat transfer fluid passes directly to the cavity of the last circulation plate, which is in fluid communication with the heat transfer fluid inlet. Then, the heat transfer fluid makes at least two U-shaped turns defined between the circulation plates. Finally, the heat transfer fluid passes through the heat transfer fluid outlet.

[0120] According to one aspect of the invention, the last circulation plate of the stack of plates is arranged to be in contact with the cover, in particular in the form of a plate, on the external face of which the reception zones for the components to be cooled are formed. The cover is arranged to cover the latter circulation plate. The distribution plate is the first plate in the plate stack.

[0121] The traffic plates include at least one inter-plate opening.

[0122] The traffic plates include at least one row of interplate openings.

[0123] According to one aspect of the invention, at least one of the circulation plates comprises at least two rows of openings, respectively at least one row of inlet openings and at least one row of inter-plate openings, on either side of stamped shapes.

[0124] The rows of inter-plate openings are arranged alternately from one circulation plate to the other so as to form, in profile, a U-shaped turn of heat transfer fluid.

[0125] The rows of inter-plate openings are located at one end of each fluid circulation cavity comprising the at least one stamped shape so that the heat transfer fluid can pass through said stamped shape, from upstream to downstream, towards the heat transfer fluid outlet.

[0126] "Inter-plate openings" are defined as openings formed in the circulation plates so that the heat transfer fluid from the fluid inlet can pass from one stage to the other towards the fluid outlet. These inter-plate openings differ from the outlet openings in that the inter-plate openings do not immediately open into the outlet compartment of the collector base.

[0127] According to one aspect of the invention, the rows of inlet openings and the first rows of inter-plate openings are arranged at one end of the stamped shape, while the other rows of inter-plate openings are arranged at the other end of the stamped shape.

[0128] The plate(s) comprise at least three rows of openings, preferably at least six rows of openings or even at least nine rows of openings, through which the heat transfer fluid can circulate, distributed at a distance from each other, in the longitudinal direction and the transverse direction of the plate(s). The plane defining the plates contains both the transverse direction and the longitudinal direction and these transverse and longitudinal directions are perpendicular to each other.

[0129] The term "rows of openings" means rows of inlet and outlet openings or rows of inter-plate openings.

[0130] Alternatively, the plate(s) have a single cavity.

[0131] For example, the circulation plate or the distribution plates each have a single cavity. A "single cavity" is understood to mean when the cavity does not have a dividing wall.

[0132] The circulation cavity comprises a succession of stamped shapes, in particular chevron-shaped stamped shapes, which are joined together.

[0133] For example, the cavity has at least three successions of stamped shapes.

[0134] The cavity may include other stamped shapes which are smaller than those which are joined together.

[0135] The cavity may include stamped shapes that are insulated from other stamped shapes, particularly insulated rafters.

[0136] The cavity(ies) may comprise these stamped shapes which are isolated from the other stamped shapes. In other words, the isolated stamped shapes are located at one end of the circulation cavity so that they are not between other stamped shapes.

[0137] According to one aspect of the invention, the inlet and / or outlet compartments have L-shapes.

[0138] According to one aspect of the invention, the longer branch of L extends substantially over the large part of the collector base. The large branch of L has a constant width. This large branch is substantially rectilinear.

[0139] The entry and exit compartments are opposite each other.

[0140] The inlet and outlet compartments are symmetrical with respect to the center of the collector base.

[0141] According to one aspect of the invention, each plate comprises at least one inlet opening and one outlet opening.

[0142] According to one aspect of the invention, each plate is in fluid communication through at least one inlet opening with the heat transfer fluid inlet.

[0143] Thus, the heat transfer fluid from the heat transfer fluid inlet is distributed to each plate.

[0144] The heat transfer fluid coming from one or more inlet openings is directed towards the outlet opening(s).

[0145] According to one aspect of the invention, the plates are arranged to be supplied by at least one fluid distribution column connected to the rows of inlet openings of each plate.

[0146] The rows of outlet openings of the plates are arranged to be connected to a heat transfer fluid collection column which allows the heat transfer fluid to be evacuated.

[0147] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises a cover configured to cover the stack of plates.

[0148] According to one aspect of the invention, this cover is made of metal, or based on plastic material.

[0149] According to one aspect of the invention, the cover has the external face of the device on which one or more components can be placed, for example an electronic power module, a component of an electrical machine of the vehicle, a component of a DC-DC converter, a component of an on-board charger, a component of an inverter.

[0150] The external face of the cover is the one that is in contact with the component. Conversely, the internal face of the cover refers to the face in contact with the heat transfer fluid.

[0151] According to one aspect of the invention, the external face of the cover comprises at least one component receiving zone.

[0152] According to one aspect of the invention, each receiving area of ​​an electronic component is flat.

[0153] According to one aspect of the invention, the thickness of the plate is between 0.1 and 0.45 mm, more particularly between 0.15 and 0.3 mm.

[0154] According to one aspect of the invention, the height of one or more fluid circulation channels outside the stamped area is between 0.6 and 1.2 mm, more particularly between 0.8 and 1 mm.

[0155] According to one aspect of the invention, the plate(s) are made of metal, in particular aluminum alloy.

[0156] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a thermal regulation device for cooling and / or heating at least one component whose operation is sensitive to temperature, this component being in particular an electronic power module of an inverter or a battery cell, this method comprising the following step: - produce a stack of at least three circulation plates, in particular brazed together, within which at least one heat transfer fluid circuit is arranged, this thermal regulation device having an external face on which one or more components can be placed, for example an electronic module of power, the three circulation plates each comprising at least one stamped shape forming an element for disturbing the flow of fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit.

[0157] According to one aspect of the invention, the thermal regulation device is of the monofluid type.

[0158] According to one aspect of the invention, the method further comprises a step of brazing the circulation plates to produce the stack of plates.

[0159] According to one aspect of the invention, the method further comprises: - cutting the plates at the same time as forming the stamped shape, so as to form at least one opening on the plates, in particular on the same machine.

[0160] Alternatively, the stamping and cutting steps follow one after the other.

[0161] In other words, one machine is used for cutting and the other for stamping.

[0162] The invention also relates to an assembly comprising a thermal regulation device as mentioned above, and at least one electronic component placed on an external face of this thermal regulation device to be cooled by the fluid flow paths in the thermal regulation device.

[0163] Other characteristics, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the description which follows on the one hand, and several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0164] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a perspective representation of a thermal regulation device according to an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

[0165] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a sectional representation along axis AA of the thermal regulation device of Figure 1;

[0166] [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a perspective and sectional representation along the BB axis of the thermal regulation device of Figure 1, illustrating a stack of plates of said device of the invention;

[0167] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a flat representation of a circulation plate of the device of Figure 3 (section CC);

[0168] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a flat representation of a circulation plate of the device of Figure 3 (section DD);

[0169] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a flat representation of a circulation plate of the device of Figure 3 (section EE);

[0170] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 is a flat representation of a distribution plate of the device of Figure 3 (section FF);

[0171] [Fig. 8] Figure 8 is a flat representation of a collector base of the device of the invention (section GG);

[0172] [Fig. 9] Figure 9 is a perspective and sectional representation of a thermal regulation device according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, illustrating a stack of plates of said device of the invention;

[0173] [Fig. 10] Figure 10 is a flat representation of a circulation plate of the device of Figure 9;

[0174] [Fig. 11] Figure 11 is a flat representation of a collector base of the device of Figure 9.

[0175] The features, variants and different embodiments of the invention may be combined with each other in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be conceived comprising only a selection of features described below in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage and / or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0176] Figures 1 and 3 show an example of a thermal regulation device 2 for cooling and / or heating components 4 whose operation is sensitive to temperature.

[0177] As illustrated in Figure 2, this thermal regulation device 2 is part of an assembly 6 which comprises electronic components 4 placed on an external face 8 of the thermal regulation device 2 to be cooled by the fluid paths in the thermal regulation device 2. These components 4 are in particular electronic power modules of an inverter or battery cells.

[0178] The thermal regulation device 2 comprises a stack 10 of three circulation plates 12 brazed together, within which a heat transfer fluid circuit 14 is arranged.

[0179] The three circulation plates 12 each comprise a plurality of stamped shapes 16 forming elements for disturbing the flow of fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit 14.

[0180] A "stamped shape" 16 means a shape that has been obtained by stamping a plate.

[0181] This thermal regulation device 2 has an external face 8 on which three components 4 can be placed, for example three electronic power modules.

[0182] The thermal regulation device 2 is of the monofluid type.

[0183] A single-fluid type thermal regulation device 2 is understood to mean that a single heat transfer fluid circulates in the heat transfer fluid circuit 14 of said device 2. It is opposed to the two-fluid type device. In this way, the same fluid circulates in all the plates formed by the stack of plates 10.

[0184] The device 2 comprises a cover 18, made of metal, or based on plastic material, configured to cover the stack of plates 10.

[0185] The external face 8 of the cover 18 comprises three flat component receiving zones 20, of identical dimensions, on which the three components 4 can be placed. The external face 8 of the cover 18 is understood to mean that which is in contact with the components 4. Conversely, the internal face 22 of the cover refers to the face in contact with the heat transfer fluid.

[0186] The present invention is advantageous insofar as the stack of circulation plates 10 makes it possible to uniformly cool the external face 8 of the thermal regulation device 2, in particular thanks to temperature balancing.

[0187] Furthermore, stacking the circulation plates 12 makes it possible to have a flow of heat transfer fluid in two dimensions, that is to say essentially in a plane following a direction defined by the stamped shape 16, which makes it possible to minimize pressure drops which would occur if the flow took place in the three dimensions of space.

[0188] Furthermore, the invention makes it possible to adjust a ratio between the heat exchange between the plates 12 and the heat transfer fluid, on the one hand, and the pressure losses, on the other hand, by increasing or reducing the number of plates 12 stacked together.

[0189] In the case where several electronic components 4 are placed on this external face 8, in dedicated reception zones 20, the invention makes it possible to have a homogeneous temperature profile at the level of the different electronic components 4.

[0190] The invention thus makes it possible to optimize the operation of these electronic components 4 thanks to better thermal management. This thus allows a better balance in terms of temperature.

[0191] The formation of the stamped shape 16 has the advantage of being simple to manufacture and is inexpensive compared to other techniques, in particular conventional machining or laser machining. This stamped shape 16 present in the heat transfer fluid circuit 14 makes it possible to increase the exchange surface between the heat transfer fluid and the circulation plates 12.

[0192] In summary, the invention allows the device 2 to have optimal thermal performance while reducing the pressure losses of the heat transfer fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit 14 and the manufacturing cost of the device 2.

[0193] This thermal regulation device 2 comprises a collector base 24, in one piece, forming a base of the thermal regulation device 2. This collector base 24 has a longitudinal shape in direction X.

[0194] The collector base 24 comprises a bottom 26 and uprights 28 extending from the bottom 26 defining two compartments 30, 32, including a heat transfer fluid inlet compartment 30 and a heat transfer fluid outlet compartment 32. These compartments 30, 32 are separated by a separating partition 34 arranged between the uprights 28 and extending from the bottom 26 of the collector base 24.

[0195] This collector base 24 is provided with a fluid inlet 36 and a fluid outlet 38 configured to be connected respectively to an external fluid inlet pipe and an external fluid outlet pipe (not shown). This fluid inlet 36 and this fluid outlet 38 are arranged at two opposite ends along the X axis of the collector base 24.

[0196] The fluid inlet compartment 30 of the collector base 24 comprises a distribution channel 40 supplied by the fluid inlet 36 and the fluid outlet compartment of the collector base comprises a discharge channel 42 connected to the fluid outlet 38.

[0197] The presence of the separating partition 34 in the collector base 24 allows a U-shaped circulation of fluid between the fluid inlet 36 and the fluid outlet 38 in the Z direction.

[0198] The fluid inlet compartment 30 and the fluid outlet compartment 32 have a substantially triangular shape.

[0199] These inlet and outlet compartments 30, 32 are separated from each other by a separating partition 34 having a longitudinal shape. The separating partition 34 forms the large diagonal of the collector base 24. These inlet and outlet compartments 30, 32 together form a substantially rectangular shape.

[0200] The bottom 26 of the collector base 24, having a substantially rectangular shape with rounded corners, forms a base for said compartments 30, 32 of the collector base 24.

[0201] As is particularly visible in Figure 7, the stack of plates 10 further comprises a flat distribution plate 44 arranged to cover the collector base 24. The term “flat” means a plate 44 which does not have a stamped shape.

[0202] The distribution plate 44 allows good distribution of heat transfer fluid across the plates of the stack of plates 10.

[0203] The X axis is, for example, the longitudinal axis of the plates 12, 44 and the Y axis is, for example, the transverse axis of the plates 12, 44. The Z axis is defined as being an axis perpendicular to the plane defined by the plates 12, 44. The X and Y axes are perpendicular to the Z axis so as to form an XYZ trihedron.

[0204] As can be seen in particular in Figures 4 to 6, an example of embodiment of the circulation plates 12 is shown. The circulation plates 12 comprise several stamped shapes 16, forming herringbone or V-shaped disturbance elements. These stamped shapes 16 form several disturbance elements.

[0205] The stamped shapes 16 extend for some on one face of the circulation plate 12 and for other stamped shapes on the opposite face of the circulation plate 12.

[0206] Thus, the circulation plates 12 have, in profile, corrugations or undulations.

[0207] As can be seen in particular in Figures 4 to 6, the chevron disturbance elements are arranged in several rows. The circulation plates 12 with the stamped shapes 16, or the stamped circulation plates 12, extend over the entire length of the thermal regulation device 2, along the X axis, and are configured to define three fluid circulation cavities 46, receiving stamped shapes 16.

[0208] The chevron-shaped stamped shapes 16 of the fluid circulation cavities 46 of the circulation plates 12 are arranged so that the heat transfer fluid can flow, from upstream to downstream, towards the fluid outlet 38.

[0209] The circulation plates 12 with stamped shapes 16, or the stamped circulation plates 12, are arranged one above the other.

[0210] The successive circulation plates 12 have stamped shapes 16 on their two faces. The cover 18 has stamped shapes on its face internal 22 which is in direct contact with the heat transfer fluid. Only the face of the cover 18 which is in direct contact with the heat transfer fluid has the stamped shapes.

[0211] As is particularly visible in Figure 3, the stamped shapes 16 of the two neighboring circulation plates 12 are offset from each other, along the Y axis.

[0212] As is particularly visible in Figure 3, the heat transfer fluid circuit 14 comprises three heat transfer fluid circulation stages 54 defined between the successive circulation plates 12 or between one of the circulation plates 12 and an internal face 22 of the cover 18.

[0213] Thus the heat transfer fluid flows over several stages 54.

[0214] The fluid circulation stages 54 are formed by assembling two plates between which several fluid circulation channels are formed defining the fluid flow path in these stages 54. These channels are produced by the stamped shapes.

[0215] Neighboring stages 54 share a common circulation plate 12. The heat transfer fluid circulation stages 54 are substantially parallel to the external face 8 of the cover 18.

[0216] The fluid paths in a stage 54 are of the herringbone type and the respective fluid paths of the two successive stages have symmetry by a 180° rotation in a plane P parallel to the stages 54.

[0217] The invention thus makes it possible to pass the heat transfer fluid over these stages 54 in such a way that the heat transfer fluid, which is still cold, can be in contact with the reception zones 20 of the electronic components 4.

[0218] The circulation plates 12 comprise six rows of openings 50, 52, 56 through which the heat transfer fluid can circulate, distributed at a distance from each other, in the longitudinal direction X and the transverse direction Y of the circulation plates 12. These rows of openings 50, 52, 56 are produced by cutting the plates. The plane defining the circulation plates 12 contains both the transverse direction Y and the longitudinal direction X.

[0219] The distribution plate 44 has six rows of openings, namely three rows of inlet openings 50 and three rows of outlet openings 56, which are produced by cutting the plates.

[0220] The rows of openings 50, 56 are arranged to allow circulation of heat transfer fluid in a direction Z.

[0221] As shown in Figures 4 to 6, the circulation plates 12 comprise two rows of openings 50, 52, respectively three rows of inlet openings 50 and three rows of inter-plate openings 52 or three rows of outlet openings 56, on either side of stamped shapes 16.

[0222] As illustrated in FIG. 3, the rows of inter-plate openings 52 are arranged alternately from one circulation plate 12 to the other so as to form, in profile, a U-shaped turn of heat transfer fluid.

[0223] The rows of inter-plate openings 52 are located at one end of each fluid circulation cavity 46 comprising the stamped shapes 16 so that the heat transfer fluid can pass through the stamped shapes, from upstream to downstream, towards the heat transfer fluid outlet 38.

[0224] The term "inter-plate openings" 52 refers to the openings formed on the circulation plates so that the heat transfer fluid from the fluid inlet 36 can pass from one stage to the other towards the fluid outlet 38. These inter-plate openings 52 differ from the outlet openings 56 in that the inter-plate openings 52 do not immediately open onto the outlet compartment 32 of the collector base 24.

[0225] As can be seen in Figure 5, the rows of inlet openings 50 and the rows of inter-plate openings 52 of a downstream circulation plate are arranged at one end of the stamped shapes 16, while the other rows of inter-plate openings 52 of the upstream circulation plate (shown in dotted line, the plate of Figure 4) are arranged at the other end of the stamped shapes 16.

[0226] The rows of inlet openings 50 and the rows of inter-plate openings 52 are arranged in such a way that these rows 50, 52 are not directly in fluid communication, except for the rows of inter-plate openings of the last stage 54 defined between the internal face 22 of the cover and the last circulation plate 12.

[0227] It may in particular be provided that the circulation plates 12 are provided with a plurality of rims and / or bosses (not shown) around the rows of openings 50 in such a way that the heat transfer fluid cannot flow in parallel between the rows of inlet openings 50 and the rows of inter-plate openings 52, except for the last stage 54.

[0228] Advantageously, at least two out of three circulation plates 12 are provided with these edges and / or bosses. It is also possible to provide that at least one plate out of two circulation plates 12 are provided with the edges and / or bosses so that a plate between the two plates is not provided with these edges and / or bosses.

[0229] In Figure 6, it can be seen that the rows of inlet openings 50 and the rows of inter-plate openings 52 of an upstream circulation plate (shown in dotted line, the plate of Figure 5) are arranged at one end of the stamped shapes 16, while the rows of outlet openings 56 are arranged at the other end of the stamped shapes 16.

[0230] Figure 7 illustrates in particular that the distribution plate comprises three rows of inlet openings and three rows of outlet openings. The rows of inlet openings 50 are located mirror-symmetrically with respect to the rows of outlet openings x, in particular with respect to the X axis.

[0231] The rows of inlet openings 50 are located on the peripheries of the plates 12, 44.

[0232] The rows of openings 50, 52, 56 on the plate 12, 44 are arranged on peripheries of the plate.

[0233] The term "peripheries" refers to the end zones close to the periphery 51 of the plate 12, 44. Conversely, the "center" of the plate relative to the peripheries refers to a central position of the plate relative to the periphery 51 of the plate 12, 44.

[0234] The distribution plate 44 differs from the circulation plate 12 in that the distribution plate 44 does not include a stamped shape 16 like the circulation plate 12.

[0235] The circulation plate 12 or the distribution plate 44 comprises two separating walls 48, each separating wall 48 being arranged to separate the two successive fluid circulation cavities 46.

[0236] The presence of two separating walls 48 makes it possible to optimize the isostatism of said plates 12, 44. A fluid circulation cavity 46 is surrounded by two separating walls 48 so that the heat transfer fluid passing through said cavity 46 is guided by these separating walls 48 towards the fluid outlet 38.

[0237] Thus, the heat transfer fluid passes from one opening 50, 52 to the other by crossing said circulation cavity without this same fluid being able to pass towards said other cavities.

[0238] The height of the stamped shapes 16 is smaller than the space separating two neighboring traffic plates 12.

[0239] Alternatively, the stamped shapes 16 have heights chosen so that the stamped shapes 16 of two neighboring circulation plates 12 are in contact by their respective peaks or respective hollows.

[0240] Apex means a point that is highest in a direction perpendicular to the plane defined in relation to the plate. The term "trough" is used in contrast to summit.

[0241] The tops of the stamped shapes are all at the same height.

[0242] The term "first" or "first" means a stage 54, a plate 12, 120, or an element which is located closest to the collector base 24 and, in particular, the furthest upstream in relation to the direction of circulation of heat transfer fluid coming from the heat transfer fluid inlet 36, during the first path of the heat transfer fluid (not counting a possible return of heat transfer fluid towards the fluid outlet 38). For example, the first circulation plate 12, 120 is closer to the collector base 24 than the second circulation plate 12, 120.

[0243] Conversely, the term “last” or “last” means a stage 54, a plate 12, 120, or an element which is located closest to the cover 18 and, in particular, furthest downstream in relation to the direction of circulation of heat transfer fluid coming from the heat transfer fluid inlet 36, during the first path of the heat transfer fluid (without counting a possible return of heat transfer fluid towards the fluid outlet). For example, the last circulation plate 12, 120 is closer to the cover 18 than the penultimate circulation plate 12, 120.

[0244] With reference in particular to Figure 3, the stamped shapes of the two successive plates are arranged so that the tops of the stamped shapes of two neighboring circulation plates 12 are in staggered contact with each other.

[0245] In this example of figures 2 to 8, only the last stage 54 defined between the internal face 22 of the cover 18 and the last circulation plate 12 is in fluid communication through the rows of inlet openings 50 with the heat transfer fluid inlet 36.

[0246] In this way, the heat transfer fluid passes directly from the heat transfer fluid inlet 36 to this stage 54.

[0247] In other words, the rows of inlet openings 50 are arranged such that they do not communicate with the heat transfer fluid which passes through the circulation plates 12, except for the last stage 54.

[0248] The heat transfer fluid passes directly to the cavity of the last circulation plate 12, which is in fluid communication with the heat transfer fluid inlet 36. Then, the heat transfer fluid makes at least two U-turns defined between the circulation plates 12. Finally, the heat transfer fluid passes through the heat transfer fluid outlet 38.

[0249] The last circulation plate 12 of the stack of plates 10 is arranged to be in contact with the cover 18, in particular in the form of a plate, on the external face 8 of which the reception zones 20 of the components 4 to be cooled are formed. The cover 18 is arranged to cover this last circulation plate 12. The distribution plate 44 is the first plate of the stack of plates 10.

[0250] Another example of the thermal regulation device 200 is shown in Figures 9 to 11. In this example, the circulation plates 120 each comprise a single fluid circulation cavity 46. The circulation plates 120 do not comprise separating walls (not shown), in order to increase the heat exchange surface between the heat transfer fluid and the circulation plates 120.

[0251] This single fluid circulation cavity 46 makes it possible to improve thermal exchanges compared to the case where there are low walls between the cavities (see the example of figures 2 to 8).

[0252] The circulation plates 120 have a single row of inlet openings 50 and a single row of outlet openings 56.

[0253] In the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 8, the invention is advantageous in that several passes of the heat transfer fluid are made between the circulation plates 12 after the heat transfer fluid arrives at the last stage 54. In this way, the heat transfer fluid passage section between the circulation plates 12 is reduced, so as to increase the flow rate of the fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit 14. In addition, the path of the heat transfer fluid in the fluid circuit 14 is increased so as to increase the heat exchange surface. Thus, the thermal performance of the device is increased at the expense of the pressure drop.

[0254] As can be seen in an exemplary embodiment of figures 9 to 11, the circulation plates 12 or the distribution plates 44 each comprise a single cavity 46. A “single cavity” 46 is understood to mean when the cavity 46 does not comprise a separation wall (not shown).

[0255] In this example of figures 9 to 11, the distribution plate (not shown) has a single cavity. This circulation cavity does not have a separation wall.

[0256] As illustrated in particular in FIG. 9, it can be seen that the peaks and valleys of the stamped shapes 16 of the neighboring plates 120 are arranged so as to extend in opposite directions.

[0257] The stamped shapes 16 have heights chosen so that the stamped shapes 16 of two neighboring circulation plates 120 are in contact by the tops of one with the hollows of the other.

[0258] The circulation cavity 46 comprises a succession of stamped shapes 16, in particular chevron-shaped stamped shapes, which are joined together, to form a joined stamped shape 17.

[0259] For example, the cavity 46 comprises at least three successions of stamped shapes 16.

[0260] As illustrated in Figure 10, the cavity 46 may include other stamped shapes 16 which are of smaller dimensions than those which are joined together.

[0261] To return to the other example of figures 4 to 6, these stamped shapes can, of course, be split from each other by the presence of separation walls 48. These stamped shapes 16 are smaller in size than the contiguous stamped shape 17 of the example of figure 10.

[0262] For all of the examples shown in Figures 4 to 6 and in Figure 10, the cavity 46 may comprise stamped shapes 58 which are isolated from the other stamped shapes 16, isolated chevrons 58. In other words, the isolated stamped shapes 58 are located at one end of the circulation cavity 46 so that they are not between other stamped shapes 16.

[0263] Still in an alternative embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figures 9 to 11, the heat transfer fluid in the fluid stage makes a single pass between the row of inlet openings 50 to the row of outlet openings 56.

[0264] In this alternative embodiment, the heat transfer fluid passes in parallel between the circulation plates 120, from one side to the other.

[0265] As shown in Figure 11, the inlet and outlet compartments 300, 320 have L-shapes.

[0266] The longer branch of L extends substantially over the greater part of the collector base 240. The large branch of L has a constant width. This large branch is substantially straight.

[0267] The inlet and outlet compartments 300, 320 are symmetrical with respect to the center of the collector base 240.

[0268] Each plate 120 (including the distribution plate not shown) comprises a row of inlet openings 50 and a row of outlet openings 56 and each plate is in fluid communication through the row of inlet openings 50 with the heat transfer fluid inlet 36.

[0269] Thus, the heat transfer fluid from the heat transfer fluid inlet 36 is distributed to each plate 12, 44.

[0270] The plates 120 (including the distribution plate not shown) are arranged to be supplied by a fluid distribution column 60 connected to the rows of inlet openings of each plate 12, 44.

[0271] The rows of outlet openings of the plates 120 (including the distribution plate not shown) are arranged to be connected to a fluid collection column 62 which allows the heat transfer fluid to be evacuated.

[0272] In the example of Figures 9 to 11, the invention is advantageous in that several circulation plates 120 are parallel to each other while maintaining an optimal heat transfer fluid passage section. In this way, the heat exchange surface is maintained, while minimizing the pressure drop. This exemplary embodiment represents a better compromise between thermal performance and pressure drop compared to the first example shown in Figures 2 to 8.

[0273] Throughout the description of the invention, except where explicitly stated, the term "plate", each "plate" or "plates" means a circulation plate 12, 120 or a distribution plate 44. This generic term is used so that the characteristics corresponding to this term can be interchangeable between the circulation plate 12, 120 and the distribution plate 44.

Claims

CLAIMS

1. Thermal regulation device (2) for cooling and / or heating at least one component (4) whose operation is sensitive to temperature, this component being in particular an electronic power module of an inverter or a battery cell, this thermal regulation device (2) comprising: A stack (10) of at least three circulation plates (12; 120), in particular brazed together, within which at least one heat transfer fluid circuit (14) is arranged, this thermal regulation device (2) having an external face (8) on which one or more components (4) can be placed, for example an electronic power module, the three circulation plates (12; 120) each comprising at least one stamped shape (16) forming an element for disturbing the flow of fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit (14).

2. Thermal regulation device (2) according to claim 1, being of the monofluid type.

3. Thermal regulation device (2) according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a collector base (24) configured to participate in the formation of the heat transfer fluid circuit (14).

4. Thermal regulation device (2) according to claim 3, further comprising a distribution plate (44), in particular flat, arranged to cover the collector base (24).

5. Thermal regulation device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the circulation plates (12; 120) extend over the entire length of the thermal regulation device (2), and are configured to define at least one fluid circulation cavity (46), in particular at least two fluid circulation cavities (46), in particular at least three fluid circulation cavities (46).

6. Thermal regulation device (2) according to claim 5, in which the circulation plate (12; 120) comprises at least one separating wall (48), or even two separating walls (48), each separating wall (48) being arranged to separate at least partially, preferably completely, the two successive fluid circulation cavities (46).

7. Thermal regulation device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the stamped shape(s) (16) protrude from the same face of each circulation plate (12; 120).

8. Thermal regulation device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which the stamped shapes (16) have heights chosen so that the stamped shapes (16) of two neighboring circulation plates (12; 120) are in contact by their respective peaks or respective hollows.

9. Assembly (6) comprising a thermal regulation device (2) according to one of claims 1 to 8 and at least one electronic component (4) placed on an external face (8) of this thermal regulation device (2) to be cooled by the fluid flow paths in the thermal regulation device (2).

10. Method for manufacturing a thermal regulation device (2) for cooling and / or heating at least one component (4) whose operation is temperature-sensitive, this component being in particular a power electronic module of an inverter or a battery cell, this method comprising the following step: - producing a stack (10) of at least three circulation plates (12; 120), in particular brazed together, within which at least one heat transfer fluid circuit (14) is arranged, this thermal regulation device (2) having an external face (8) on which one or more components (4) can be placed, for example a power electronic module, the three circulation plates (12; 120) each comprising at least one stamped shape (16) forming an element for disturbing the flow of fluid in the heat transfer fluid circuit (14).

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