Hydraulic unit and assembly of electrically operated valves for a motor vehicle

Abstract

A hydraulic unit (10) comprising a housing (111) housing an electrically operated valve comprising an electrical part (11) and a hydraulic part (12), a distribution duct (121) located at a lower end of the housing (111), members for coupling with a second hydraulic unit (10), the coupling members being located at the distribution duct (121). The coupling members comprise an anti-rotation element (13) configured to prevent a relative rotation of the hydraulic unit (10) – referred to as the first hydraulic unit (10) – with the second hydraulic unit (10) around the distribution duct (121), when the first hydraulic unit (10) is connected to the second hydraulic unit (10), and the coupling members also comprise elements (14) for axially retaining the first hydraulic unit (10) with the second hydraulic unit (10), relative to the axis of elongation.

Description

hydraulic block and solenoid valve assembly for motor vehicle

[0001] The technical context of the present invention is that of hydraulic cleaning systems on board motor vehicles and which make it possible to clean specific surfaces located opposite sensors. More particularly, the invention relates to a hydraulic block housing a solenoid valve, to a set of solenoid valves comprising several hydraulic blocks and to a cleaning system comprising such an assembly.

[0002] Modern motor vehicles now incorporate a large number of devices that improve driver and passenger safety by improving the detection or perception of the road scene in front of or around the motor vehicle. For example, we know of the use of devices containing one or more sensors, such as radars or reversing cameras for example.

[0003] In order to maintain the proper functioning of these sensors over time, cleaning systems for these sensors have also been implemented. These cleaning systems typically include a system for distributing and spraying a cleaning liquid intended for maintaining the sensors and the glass surfaces located opposite them. This distribution system is managed by means of solenoid valves which, connected to an electronic control circuit, open or close accordingly in order to supply a spray nozzle associated with one of the sensors to be cleaned.

[0004] However, the number of sensors to be cleaned within a motor vehicle is constantly increasing due to the evolution of automotive technology, which leads to an increase in the number and / or complexity of cleaning fluid distribution systems, pressure sources and / or solenoid valves responsible for supplying fluid conduits which channel the cleaning fluid to the sensors.

[0005] The multiplicity of sensors and the increasing complexity of the associated cleaning systems and the distribution system lead to numerous problems on motor vehicles, among which we can cite the bulkiness, that is to say the difficulty of housing such cleaning systems or of passing the fluid conduits of the distribution system in an already very constrained environment. Another known problem lies in the increase in the weight carried on motor vehicles and which results from the multiplicity of fluid conduits and other solenoid valves. Finally, another known problem is, of course, the increase in production costs.

[0006] To solve this technical problem, we know the use of several solenoid valve blocks associated with each other and which are all connected to a single cleaning liquid tank via a single fluid conduit. Downstream of this installation, each solenoid valve is fluidically connected to one or more cleaning systems in order to control the cleaning of one or more associated sensors. Thus, such known solenoid valve assemblies make it possible to reduce the necessary space requirement and to make numerous design and manufacturing savings, facilitating their integration into motor vehicles.

[0007] Generally speaking, such solenoid valve assemblies comprise a plurality of solenoid valves, each solenoid valve comprising an electrical part housed in a housing and a hydraulic part comprising an outlet sleeve located at a lower end of the housing, the assembly comprising a single distribution conduit fluidly coupling the hydraulic part of all the solenoid valves. In other words, such known solenoid valve assemblies bring together and secure several hydraulic blocks of solenoid valves together and thus form a subassembly dedicated to the cleaning liquid distribution function.

[0008] Many solenoid valve assemblies are known that group together several hydraulic blocks. Such known assemblies are generally connected to each other at their distribution duct, each distribution duct of a first hydraulic block being fitted into the distribution duct of the directly adjacent hydraulic block in order to form a chain of hydraulic blocks all connected together at their distribution duct. The disadvantage of such known solenoid valve assemblies lies in the unreliability of these attachments because, under the effect of the hydraulic pressure of the cleaning liquid flowing in the distribution duct, it is possible for two adjacent hydraulic blocks to detach from each other, the distribution ducts disengaging from each other.

[0009] We also know the redundant and hyperstatic implementation of additional fasteners at the level of the housings of each solenoid valve, in order to stiffen the solenoid valve assembly and prevent two hydraulic blocks from detaching from each other. This solution is unfortunately expensive because it requires more precise dimensioning and machining of the parts; and it also complicates the assembly of such solenoid valve assemblies.

[0010] These different situations are not desired

[0011] The object of the present invention is to propose a new hydraulic block in order to respond at least to a large extent to the preceding problems and to further lead to other advantages.

[0012] Another aim of the invention is to improve the fixing of two adjacent hydraulic blocks to each other.

[0013] Another aim of the invention is to reduce the risk of two adjacent hydraulic blocks becoming detached, while providing an easy and economical mounting solution.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, at least one of the aforementioned objectives is achieved with a hydraulic block comprising:

[0015] - a box;

[0016] - a solenoid valve comprising an electrical part housed in the housing and a hydraulic part comprising an outlet sleeve located at a lower end of the housing;

[0017] - a distribution conduit located at the lower end of the housing, the distribution conduit being in fluid communication with a body of the solenoid valve and with the outlet sleeve;

[0018] - coupling members configured to cooperate with a second hydraulic block, the coupling members comprising first coupling members associated with a first end of the distribution conduit, and second coupling members associated with a second end of the distribution conduit.

[0019] In the hydraulic block according to the first aspect of the invention, the coupling members comprise an anti-rotation element configured to prevent relative rotation of the hydraulic block – called the first hydraulic block – with the second hydraulic block around the distribution conduit, when the first hydraulic block is connected to the second hydraulic block.

[0020] In the context of the present invention, the hydraulic block forms a sub-part of a set of solenoid valves, several hydraulic blocks being intended to be associated and assembled together to form such a set of solenoid valves.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, a solenoid valve is an electrically controlled hydraulic valve that allows a fluid flow rate to be controlled – here the flow rate of the cleaning liquid intended to flow into the distribution conduit – at the outlet sleeve of said solenoid valve. Thus, the solenoid valve allows an output flow rate measured at the outlet sleeve to be defined between a minimum value, ideally zero, and a maximum value. The output flow rate can be finely adjusted to any value between the minimum value and the maximum output flow rate value.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, the outlet sleeve forms a connector – male or female – intended to be fluidically coupled to a fluid conduit located downstream of the hydraulic block according to the first aspect of the invention in order to allow a supply of cleaning liquid for one or more cleaning systems located downstream of said hydraulic block.

[0023] In the context of the present invention, the electrical part of the solenoid valve comprises an electromagnetic circuit for controlling the opening or closing of the hydraulic part, so as to control the output flow at the output sleeve.

[0024] In the context of the present invention, the hydraulic part makes it possible to put into fluid communication or to fluidly isolate an upstream part of the solenoid valve – typically the distribution conduit – with a downstream part of the solenoid valve – typically the fluid conduit intended to be connected to the outlet sleeve. The hydraulic part comprises for example a movable piston in the body of the solenoid valve and making it possible to close an opening towards the outlet sleeve or to move away from it.

[0025] In the context of the present invention, the housing houses the solenoid valve. The housing is advantageously formed from plastic and obtained by molding. The housing optionally includes anchoring means or means of attachment to other housings located nearby in order to form a set of solenoid valves. The housing protects the solenoid valve.

[0026] In the context of the present invention, the distribution conduit forms a cleaning liquid supply conduit located upstream of the solenoid valves. The distribution conduit is intended to be fluidically connected to a cleaning liquid reservoir. The distribution conduit of a first hydraulic block is intended to be fluidically coupled to the distribution conduit of a second hydraulic block. Generally, the distribution conduit of a given solenoid valve is integral with the hydraulic part of the solenoid valve, and or forms at least in part said hydraulic part. The distribution conduit may be made of the same material as the hydraulic part of a solenoid valve, or attached and fixed integrally to said hydraulic part.

[0027] In the context of the present invention, the coupling members make it possible to assemble the first hydraulic block to the second hydraulic block, by connecting them to each other at their distribution duct. More particularly, the coupling members make it possible to partially engage the distribution duct of the first hydraulic block in the distribution duct of the second hydraulic block. The coupling of the distribution ducts is preferably done by fitting. Thus, the two distribution ducts embedded in each other together form a single distribution duct for all two assembled hydraulic blocks.

[0028] In the context of the present invention, the anti-rotation element thus makes it possible to prevent the first hydraulic block from pivoting relative to the second hydraulic block, when they are connected to each other, that is to say when they are assembled to each other. The rotation in question here is that carried out around the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit. By extension, the anti-rotation element also forms an angular indexing element for mounting the first hydraulic block on the second hydraulic block. In other words, the anti-rotation element forms a key for mounting the first hydraulic block with the second hydraulic block, so that there is a limited number of mounting configurations for connecting the first hydraulic block to the second hydraulic block, preferably only one, possibly two.

[0029] Thus, the hydraulic block according to the first aspect of the invention makes it possible to guarantee better attachment to another adjacent hydraulic block, guaranteeing optimal operation and ease of implementation.

[0030] The hydraulic block in accordance with the first aspect of the invention advantageously comprises at least one of the improvements below, the technical characteristics forming these improvements being able to be taken alone or in combination:

[0031] - at the first end of the distribution duct, the first coupling members form male-type coupling members, and at the second end of the distribution duct, the second coupling members form female-type coupling members, the first male-type coupling members of the first hydraulic block being configured to couple with the second female-type coupling members of the second hydraulic block. In the context of the present invention, the coupling between the first coupling members and the second coupling members is preferably carried out by engagement of complementary shapes, such as for example by fitting or by embedding, preferably without play. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to prevent the first hydraulic block from being torn away from the second hydraulic block;

[0032] - the anti-rotation element comprises (i) at least one prismatic bearing surface arranged at the first end of the distribution conduit, and (ii) at least one notch arranged at the second end of the distribution conduit, such that, when the first hydraulic block is connected to the second hydraulic block, the at least one prismatic bearing surface is engaged in the at least one notch located opposite. The prismatic bearing surface of a first hydraulic block is configured to be able to be engaged in the notch of a second hydraulic block. In the context of the present invention, each end of the distribution conduit is taken along the elongation axis of said fluid conduit. Thus, when the first hydraulic block is assembled to the second hydraulic block, the at least one prismatic bearing surface is housed at least partially in the at least one notch located opposite;

[0033] - depending on the shape and position of the anti-rotation element on the hydraulic block, the mounting configuration(s) of the first hydraulic block with the second hydraulic block may be different. Several alternative embodiments are described below as non-limiting examples. The invention thus makes it possible to integrate a keying device to ensure easier and more reproducible mounting;

[0034] - according to a first embodiment variant, the anti-rotation element is configured to allow in-line mounting of the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block, the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block then both being located in the same plane and on the same side of the distribution duct when they are connected to each other. In this first embodiment variant, all the hydraulic blocks intended to be assembled together via the coupling members and the anti-rotation element are then located side by side on a single side of the distribution duct obtained by the abutment of the distribution ducts of each hydraulic block;

[0035] - alternatively, according to a second embodiment, the anti-rotation element is configured to allow mounting in opposition of the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block, the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block then both being located in the same plane and on either side of the distribution duct when they are connected to each other. In this second embodiment, the hydraulic blocks intended to be assembled together via the coupling members and the anti-rotation element are then located alternately on one side and the other of the distribution duct obtained by the abutment of the distribution ducts of each hydraulic block, all the hydraulic blocks nevertheless remaining in the same plane;

[0036] - alternatively, according to a third embodiment, the anti-rotation element is configured to allow a “V” assembly of the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block, the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block then being located on either side of the distribution duct and in planes inclined relative to said distribution duct when they are connected to each other. In this third embodiment, the hydraulic blocks intended to be assembled together via the coupling members and the anti-rotation element are then located alternately on one side and the other of the distribution duct obtained by the abutment of the distribution ducts of each hydraulic block, the hydraulic blocks being distributed in a “V” configuration in a plane perpendicular to the axis of elongation of the distribution duct;

[0037] - the at least one prismatic bearing surface extends around the periphery of the distribution duct at its first end, and the at least one notch extends around the periphery of the distribution duct at its second end. More particularly, the at least one prismatic bearing surface extends rectilinearly along an elongation axis of the distribution duct. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to couple two adjacent hydraulic blocks by a translational movement along the elongation axis;

[0038] - one of the at least one prismatic bearing surface and one of the at least one notch extend over a face of the distribution conduit located opposite the housing housing the solenoid valve. Advantageously, at the first end of the distribution conduit, the anti-rotation element comprises (i) a first prismatic bearing surface and a second prismatic bearing surface located diametrically opposite the first prismatic bearing surface, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit, and (ii) a first notch and a second notch located diametrically opposite the first notch, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to define two different mounting positions, pivoted 180° from each other around the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit.Optionally, in order to reduce the assembly configurations to a single angular orientation, the first notch and the second notch on the one hand, and the first prismatic span and the second prismatic span on the other hand, may have different shapes and / or dimensions in order to provide keying;

[0039] - the hydraulic block comprises axial retaining elements configured to retain the first hydraulic block against the second hydraulic block when they are connected to each other, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution duct. The axial retaining elements make it possible to retain the first hydraulic block and the second hydraulic block against each other. Advantageously, the axial retaining elements comprise (i) retaining clips which extend from the first end of the distribution duct, relative to the axis of elongation, and (ii) receivers complementary to the retaining clips, the complementary receivers being associated with the second end of the distribution duct. The axial retaining elements are configured to collaborate together in complementary shaped engagement.In particular, when assembling the first hydraulic block with the second hydraulic block, the retaining clips of the first hydraulic block are configured to be elastically deformed in order to engage in the complementary receivers located opposite on the second hydraulic block. Once engaged in the complementary receivers, the retaining clips prevent the first hydraulic block from being unintentionally separated from the second hydraulic block.

[0040] - the retaining clips extend on either side of the first end of the conduit, relative to the elongation axis, so that a free end of each retaining clip extends axially beyond the first end of the distribution conduit, relative to the elongation axis. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the retaining clips take the form of claws which extend relative to the elongation axis. Advantageously, the axial retaining elements comprise two retaining clips located diametrically opposite each other with respect to the distribution conduit.

[0041] - the complementary receivers are arranged in an intermediate position between the second end of the distribution duct and the housing housing the solenoid valve. This configuration provides greater stability during assembly. Advantageously, the axial retaining elements comprise two complementary receivers located diametrically opposite each other with respect to the distribution duct;

[0042] - the axial retaining elements are arranged in a direction intersecting that in which the anti-rotation element is arranged on the hydraulic block. More particularly, the axial retaining elements are arranged at 90° relative to the anti-rotation element. This advantageous configuration makes it easier to assemble the first hydraulic block against the second hydraulic block, by providing better visibility of both the coupling members, the axial retaining elements and the anti-rotation element.

[0043] In an alternative configuration, the anti-rotation element is carried by at least one of the axial retaining elements.

[0044] Advantageously, each of the anti-rotation elements is arranged on a receiver.

[0045] More preferably, each anti-rotation element comprises at least one shoulder, the shoulder configured to abut against an opposing axial edge of a retaining clip when the first hydraulic block is connected to the second hydraulic block.

[0046] In an even more advantageous embodiment, the anti-rotation element comprises a pair of shoulders, the shoulders being configured to abut against opposite axial edges of a retaining clip when the first hydraulic block is connected to the second hydraulic block.

[0047] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided a set of solenoid valves for a sensor cleaning system of a motor vehicle, the set comprising a plurality of hydraulic blocks in accordance with the first aspect of the invention or according to any of its improvements, each hydraulic block being coupled to the other via its coupling members.

[0048] Preferably, all the hydraulic blocks are connected two by two via their distribution ducts, all the distribution ducts together forming a single distribution duct. In other words, the hydraulic blocks are all fluidically coupled in series with each other.

[0049] As mentioned above, depending on the shape and position of the anti-rotation element on each hydraulic block, the configuration(s) for mounting the hydraulic blocks together may be different. Several alternative embodiments are described below as non-limiting examples. The invention thus makes it possible to integrate a keying device in order to ensure easier and more reproducible mounting.

[0050] According to a first variant embodiment, the anti-rotation element of the hydraulic blocks of the set of solenoid valves is configured to allow in-line mounting of all the hydraulic blocks of the set of solenoid valves in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, said hydraulic blocks then all being located in the same plane and on the same side of the distribution conduit when they are connected to each other.

[0051] Alternatively, according to a second variant embodiment, the anti-rotation element of the hydraulic blocks of the set of solenoid valves is configured to allow mounting in opposition of the hydraulic blocks which are then distributed, in a staggered pattern, on either side of the distribution conduit and in the same plane of the set of solenoid valves in accordance with the second aspect of the invention.

[0052] Alternatively, according to a third embodiment, the anti-rotation element of the hydraulic blocks of the solenoid valve assembly is configured to allow a “V” mounting of the hydraulic blocks which are then distributed on either side of the distribution duct, in a staggered manner and in inclined orientations relative to said distribution duct. In other words, the hydraulic blocks are distributed in a “V” configuration in a plane perpendicular to the axis of elongation of the distribution duct of the solenoid valve assembly according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0053] According to a third aspect of the invention, there is provided a cleaning system for a motor vehicle, the cleaning system comprising:

[0054] - the set of solenoid valves according to the second aspect of the invention;

[0055] - a plurality of cleaning devices, each cleaning device being associated with a sensor of the motor vehicle; and

[0056] - a plurality of fluid conduits fluidly coupling the cleaning devices to the set of solenoid valves.

[0057] In particular, each cleaning device is fluidically coupled to one of the solenoid valves of the assembly. For this purpose, each fluid conduit is coupled, at a first end, to the outlet sleeve of one of the solenoid valves and, at a second end, to the cleaning device.

[0058] In the context of the present invention, the cleaning device comprises at least one nozzle for spraying a cleaning liquid onto a surface to be cleaned of the sensor with which it is associated. The cleaning liquid is conveyed to the cleaning device via the fluid conduit. Controlling the set of solenoid valves thus makes it possible to selectively control a flow of cleaning liquid in each fluid conduit, making it possible to selectively activate each cleaning device using a single set of solenoid valves in accordance with the second aspect of the invention.

[0059] The cleaning system according to the third aspect of the invention advantageously comprises a storage tank for the cleaning liquid. The storage tank is fluidically coupled to the distribution conduit of the set of solenoid valves. Subsequently, the control of each solenoid valve makes it possible to direct the cleaning liquid circulating in the distribution conduit towards the active cleaning device(s).

[0060] Various embodiments of the invention are provided, incorporating, in all their possible combinations, the various optional features set out herein.

[0061] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description on the one hand, and from several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the attached schematic drawings on the other hand, in which:

[0062] illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a set of solenoid valves in accordance with the second aspect of the invention, according to a first embodiment;

[0063] illustrates a detail view of a hydraulic portion of one of the hydraulic blocks of the solenoid valve assembly illustrated in the;

[0064] illustrates a detailed view of a first coupling member according to the invention of one of the hydraulic blocks of the set of solenoid valves illustrated in the;

[0065] illustrates a detailed view of a first coupling member according to the invention of one of the hydraulic blocks of the set of solenoid valves illustrated in the;

[0066] illustrates a detailed view of a hydraulic block according to a second embodiment;

[0067] illustrates a detailed view of a set of hydraulic blocks according to the.

[0068] Of course, 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 imagined 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 or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0069] In particular, all the variants and embodiments described can be combined with each other if there is no technical obstacle to this combination.

[0070] In the figures, elements common to several figures retain the same reference.

[0071] With reference to FIGURES 1 to 4, the invention relates more particularly to hydraulic blocks 10 as found in solenoid valve assemblies associated with cleaning systems for motor vehicles. Such cleaning systems are associated with one or more sensors in order to clean a detection surface to ensure optimal operation of the sensor. Such cleaning systems comprise:

[0072] - a set of solenoid valves 1;

[0073] - a plurality of cleaning devices, each cleaning device being associated with a sensor of the motor vehicle;

[0074] - a plurality of fluid conduits fluidly coupling each cleaning device to the set of solenoid valves 1.

[0075] In the context of the present invention, each cleaning device comprises at least one nozzle for spraying a cleaning liquid onto the detection surface to be cleaned of the sensor with which it is associated. The cleaning liquid is conveyed from the set of solenoid valves 1 and to each cleaning device via the fluid conduits. On the other hand, the set of solenoid valves 1 is fluidically connected to a cleaning liquid reservoir via a single fluid conduit, thus making it possible to save money and simplify the integration of such a cleaning system on a motor vehicle.

[0076] As a result, the control of the solenoid valve assembly makes it possible to selectively control a flow of cleaning liquid in each fluid conduit, making it possible to selectively activate each cleaning device using a single set of solenoid valves 1.

[0077] The set of solenoid valves 1 comprises several hydraulic blocks 10 connected to each other, each hydraulic block 10 being coupled to the other by means of coupling members.

[0078] All the hydraulic blocks 10 are connected two by two at their distribution conduits 121, all the distribution conduits 121 together forming a single distribution conduit 121. In other words, the hydraulic blocks 10 are all fluidically coupled in series with each other.

[0079] In FIGURES 1 to 4 described below, we define:

[0080] - an axis of elongation relative to the distribution conduit 121. The axis of elongation thus corresponds to the main direction of elongation of the distribution conduit 121 of a given solenoid valve and, more generally, to the direction of elongation of the distribution conduit 121 formed by all the solenoid valves of the set of solenoid valves 1. In the context of the present invention, the axes of elongation associated with each solenoid valve are all parallel to each other, and even collinear; and

[0081] - a proper extension axis a main elongation axis of one of the solenoid valves, that is to say the axis associated with the largest dimension of the housing 111 in which a solenoid valve is housed. In the exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGURES 1 to 4, the proper extension axis is advantageously perpendicular to the elongation axis.

[0082] Thus, in the solenoid valve assembly 1 of the sensor cleaning system, each hydraulic block 10 is coupled to an adjacent hydraulic block 10 via its coupling members, such that the distribution conduits 121 of each hydraulic block 10 are connected to each other to form a single distribution conduit 121. This single distribution conduit 121 is coupled, at an upstream end, to the cleaning liquid reservoir. Furthermore, this single distribution conduit 121 comprises several outlet paths, embodied by the outlet sleeve 122 of each hydraulic block 10, in order to direct the cleaning liquid towards one or more selectively selected cleaning devices, depending on the state of each corresponding solenoid valve.

[0083] With reference to FIGURES 1 to 4, each hydraulic block 10 of the solenoid valve assembly 1 comprises

[0084] - a 111 box;

[0085] - a solenoid valve comprising an electrical part 11 housed in the housing 111 and a hydraulic part 12 comprising an outlet sleeve 122 located at a lower end of the housing 111;

[0086] - a distribution conduit 121 located at the lower end of the housing 111, the distribution conduit 121 being in fluid communication with a body of the solenoid valve and with the outlet sleeve 122;

[0087] - coupling members with a second hydraulic block 10, the coupling members comprising first coupling members associated with a first end of the distribution conduit 121, and second coupling members associated with a second end 124 of the distribution conduit 121.

[0088] The first coupling members are more particularly visible in FIGURES 2 and 3, and the second coupling members are more particularly visible in FIGURES 2 and 4.

[0089] The invention aims to facilitate the assembly of the hydraulic blocks 10 together on the one hand, and to optimize this fixing on the other hand, in order to prevent two adjacent hydraulic blocks 10 connected to each other from becoming unintentionally detached during operation of the set of solenoid valves 1. For this purpose, the coupling members comprise an anti-rotation element 13 configured to prevent relative rotation of the hydraulic block 10 – called the first hydraulic block 10 – with the second hydraulic block 10 around the distribution conduit 121, when the first hydraulic block 10 is connected to the second hydraulic block 10.

[0090] The anti-rotation element 13 is additional to the coupling members of a hydraulic block 10. In other words, a hydraulic block 10 according to the invention comprises both means for detachable attachment to an adjacent hydraulic block 10, and the anti-rotation element 13. The anti-rotation element 13 is configured to prevent relative rotation of the first hydraulic block 10 with respect to the second hydraulic block 10, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit 121. In other words, the anti-rotation element 13 is configured to constrain the coupling of the distribution conduit 121 of the first hydraulic block 10 with the distribution conduit 121 of the second hydraulic block 10, so as to block the rotation of one with respect to the other around the axis of elongation.

[0091] As seen in FIGURES 2 to 3, the anti-rotation element 13 comprises:

[0092] - at least one prismatic bearing surface 131 arranged at the first end of the distribution conduit 121. In particular, the anti-rotation element 13 comprises either a single prismatic bearing surface 131 arranged at the periphery of the distribution conduit 121 at the first end of said distribution conduit 121, or the anti-rotation element 13 comprises a plurality of prismatic bearing surfaces 131 distributed at the periphery of the first end of the distribution conduit 121. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 2 and 4, the anti-rotation element 13 comprises two prismatic bearing surfaces 131 located diametrically opposite one another at the first end of the distribution conduit 121;

[0093] - at least one notch 132 arranged at the second end 124 of the distribution conduit 121, so that, when the first hydraulic block 10 is connected to the second hydraulic block 10, the at least one prismatic bearing surface 131 is engaged in the at least one notch 132 located opposite. In particular, the anti-rotation element 13 comprises either a single notch 132 arranged on the periphery of the distribution duct 121 at the second end 124 of said distribution duct 121, or the anti-rotation element 13 comprises a plurality of notches 132 distributed on the periphery of the second end 124 of the distribution duct 121. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 2 and 3, the anti-rotation element 13 comprises two notches 132 located diametrically opposite one another at the second end 124 of the distribution duct 121.

[0094] Of course, the prismatic bearing surface(s) 131 and respectively the notch(s) 132 are provided on the corresponding end of the distribution conduit 121 in order to allow functional coupling between them. This coupling takes the form of an engagement of the prismatic bearing surface 131 in the notch 132 by engagement of complementary shapes. Thus, when the first end of the distribution conduit 121 of the first hydraulic block 10 is engaged – by fitting – in the second end 124 of the distribution conduit 121 of the second hydraulic block 10, then the prismatic bearing surface(s) 131 provided on the end of the distribution conduit 121 of the first hydraulic block 10 are engaged in the notch(s) 132 provided on the end of the distribution conduit 121 of the second hydraulic block 10.

[0095] The notch or notches 132 of the first hydraulic block 10 are located opposite the prismatic bearing surface or surfaces 131 of the second hydraulic block 10, so that the notch or notches 132 are engaged in the prismatic bearing surface or surfaces 131 by the same translational movement of the first hydraulic block 10 with respect to the second hydraulic block 10, as that which is carried out for the coupling of their distribution conduit 121. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to simplify the assembly while making the assembly of two hydraulic blocks 10 more robust and more reliable over time.

[0096] Additionally, the presence of the anti-rotation element 13 at the periphery of the distribution duct 121 makes the latter asymmetrical relative to the specific elongation axis of the distribution duct 121. Consequently, the anti-rotation element 13 thus makes it possible to reduce the number of assembly configurations of the first hydraulic block 10 with the second hydraulic block 10. In particular, the number and position of the anti-rotation elements 13 around the distribution duct 121 is such that it makes it possible to reduce to 1 or 2 the number of assembly configurations of the first hydraulic block 10 with the second hydraulic block 10, the anti-rotation elements 13 then acting as foolproofers and angular indexing elements.

[0097] In the example embodiment visible on the, the anti-rotation elements 13 are configured to allow in-line mounting of the first hydraulic block 10 and the second hydraulic block 10. Once assembled on top of each other by their distribution conduits 121, the first hydraulic block 10 and the second hydraulic block 10 are then both located in the same plane and on the same side of the distribution conduit 121. Obviously, this mounting configuration can be different depending on the orientation of the anti-rotation elements 13.

[0098] As can be seen more particularly in FIGURES 2 and 3, the anti-rotation elements are located directly at the free end of the distribution duct 121, so as to allow coupling in the same engagement movement of the distribution ducts 121 of two adjacent hydraulic blocks 10. In particular, the notch 132 is arranged directly on a peripheral wall delimiting the distribution duct 121; and the prismatic bearing surface 131 is arranged directly projecting from the peripheral wall delimiting the distribution duct 121.

[0099] In the embodiment illustrated in the FIGURES, the prismatic bearing surface 131 and the notch 132 extend over a face of the distribution conduit 121 proximal to the housing 111 housing the solenoid valve.

[0100] In addition to the presence of the anti-rotation element(s) 13, the hydraulic block 10 comprises axial retaining elements 14 configured to retain the first hydraulic block 10 against the second hydraulic block 10 when they are connected to each other, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit 121. The axial retaining elements 14 make it possible to retain the first hydraulic block 10 and the second hydraulic block 10 against each other and to prevent the second hydraulic block 10 from moving axially away from the first hydraulic block 10, relative to the axis of elongation.

[0101] As seen in FIGURES 2 to 4, the axial retaining elements 14 comprise:

[0102] - retaining clips 141 which extend from the first end of the distribution duct 121, relative to the elongation axis. The retaining clips comprise, at a free end, one or more claws 142 which form a rim which projects from each claw 142 on the side of the distribution duct 121;

[0103] - complementary receivers 143 to the retaining clips 141, the complementary receivers 143 being associated with the second end 124 of the distribution conduit 121. In particular, the complementary receivers 143 are configured to accommodate the claws 142 of each retaining clip 141, in order to embed or house them. The complementary receivers 143 typically take the form of openings arranged on a lateral edge of the distribution conduit 121.

[0104] The axial retaining elements 14 are configured to collaborate together in complementary shape engagement. In particular, when assembling the first hydraulic block 10 with the second hydraulic block 10, the retaining clips 141 of the first hydraulic block 10 are configured to be elastically deformed in order to engage in the complementary receivers 143 located opposite on the second hydraulic block 10. Once engaged in the complementary receivers 143, the retaining clips prevent the first hydraulic block 10 from being unintentionally separated from the second hydraulic block 10.

[0105] As can be seen in FIGURES 2 to 4, the retaining clips 141 extend on either side of the distribution duct 121, relative to the elongation axis, such that a free end of each retaining clip 141 – and in particular that comprising the claws 142 – extends axially beyond the distribution duct 121, relative to the elongation axis. Advantageously, the axial retaining elements 14 comprise two retaining clips 141 located diametrically opposite one another with respect to the distribution duct 121, and two complementary receivers 143 located diametrically opposite one another with respect to the distribution duct 121.

[0106] In summary, the invention relates to a hydraulic block 10 comprising a housing 111 housing a solenoid valve comprising an electrical part 11 and a hydraulic part 12, a distribution conduit 121 located at a lower end of the housing 111, coupling members with a second hydraulic block 10, the coupling members being located at the distribution conduit 121. The coupling members comprise an anti-rotation element 13 configured to prevent relative rotation of the hydraulic block 10 – called first hydraulic block 10 – with the second hydraulic block 10 around the distribution conduit 121, when the first hydraulic block 10 is connected to the second hydraulic block 10, and the coupling members also comprise axial retaining elements 14 of the first hydraulic block 10 to the second hydraulic block 10, relative to the axis of elongation.

[0107] illustrates a hydraulic block 10 according to a second embodiment of the invention. In the hydraulic block 10, each of the receivers 143 comprises a pair of the anti-rotation elements 113, which are constituted by shoulders 231. The shoulders 231 are sized and positioned to allow the passage of the clips 141 when mounting one hydraulic block 10 on another hydraulic block 10, as illustrated in the.

[0108] Illustrates two hydraulic blocks 10 according to the second embodiment of FIG. 5. In the mounted state, each clip 141 of a hydraulic block 10 is mounted on a receiver 143 of another hydraulic block 10. The shoulders 231 of the hydraulic block 10 therefore come into contact with axial edges 232a, 232b of the clip 141, thus blocking the hydraulic blocks 10 in rotation.

[0109] Optionally, the shoulders 231 and / or the receivers 143 may be provided with inclined faces, in order to cause relative rotation of the hydraulic blocks 10 during assembly, thus facilitating the assembly of the hydraulic blocks.

[0110] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the different characteristics, forms, variants and embodiments of the invention can be associated with each other in various combinations insofar as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the variants and embodiments described above can be combined with each other.

Claims

Hydraulic block (10) comprising: - a housing (111); - a solenoid valve comprising an electrical part (11) housed in the housing (111) and a hydraulic part (12) comprising an outlet sleeve (122) located at a lower end of the housing (111); - a distribution conduit (121) located at the lower end of the housing (111), the distribution conduit (121) being in fluid communication with a body of the solenoid valve and with the outlet sleeve (122); - coupling members configured to cooperate with a second hydraulic block (10), the coupling members comprising first coupling members associated with a first end of the distribution conduit (121), and second coupling members associated with a second end (124) of the distribution conduit (121);characterized in that the coupling members comprise an anti-rotation element (13, 113) configured to prevent relative rotation of the hydraulic block (10) – called the first hydraulic block (10) – with the second hydraulic block (10) around the distribution conduit (121), when the first hydraulic block (10) is connected to the second hydraulic block (10).; Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the anti-rotation element (13) comprises:- at least one prismatic bearing surface (131) arranged at the first end of the distribution conduit (121);- at least one notch (132) arranged at the second end (124) of the distribution conduit (121), so that, when the first hydraulic block (10) is connected to the second hydraulic block (10), the at least one prismatic bearing surface (131) is engaged in the at least one notch (132) located opposite. Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the at least one prismatic bearing surface (131) extends around the periphery of the distribution duct (121) at its first end, and the at least one notch (132) extends around the periphery of the distribution duct (121) at its second end (124). Hydraulic block (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the hydraulic block (10) comprises axial retaining elements (14) configured to retain the first hydraulic block (10) against the second hydraulic block (10) when they are connected to each other, relative to the axis of elongation of the distribution conduit (121). Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the axial retaining elements (14) comprise: - retaining clips (141) which extend from the first end of the distribution duct (121), relative to the elongation axis; - complementary receivers (143) to the retaining clips (141), the complementary receivers (143) being associated with the second end (124) of the distribution duct (121). Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, in which the retaining clips (141) extend on either side of the first end of the conduit, relative to the axis of elongation, so that a free end of each retaining clip (141) extends axially beyond the first end of the distribution conduit (121), relative to the axis of elongation. Hydraulic block (10) according to one of claims 5 or 6 taken in combination with claim 1, in which the anti-rotation element (113) is carried by at least one of the axial retaining elements (14). Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, in which each of the anti-rotation elements (113) is arranged on a receiver (143). Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the anti-rotation element comprises at least one shoulder (231), the shoulder (231) configured to abut against an axial edge (232a, 232b) of a retaining clip (141) when the first hydraulic block (10) is connected to the second hydraulic block (10). Hydraulic block (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein each anti-rotation element comprises a pair of shoulders (231), the shoulders (231) being configured to abut against opposite axial edges (232a, 232b) of a retaining clip (141) when the first hydraulic block (10) is connected to the second hydraulic block (10). Solenoid valve assembly (1) for a sensor cleaning system of a motor vehicle, the assembly comprising a plurality of hydraulic blocks (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, each hydraulic block (10) being coupled to at least one of the other hydraulic blocks (10) via its coupling members. Solenoid valve assembly (1) according to the preceding claim, in which all the hydraulic blocks (10) are connected two by two via their distribution conduits (121), all the distribution conduits (121) together forming a single distribution conduit (121), so that the hydraulic blocks (10) are all fluidically coupled in series with each other. Cleaning system for a motor vehicle, the cleaning system comprising:- the set of solenoid valves (1) according to any one of claims 7 and 8;- a plurality of cleaning devices, each cleaning device being associated with a sensor of the motor vehicle; and- a plurality of fluid conduits fluidly coupling the cleaning devices to the set of solenoid valves (1).

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