Manifold fluid module

Abstract

An embodiment provides a manifold fluid module comprising: a manifold plate having a fluid flow path along which a fluid moves; and multiple valves coupled to the manifold plate, wherein: the manifold plate has multiple pockets into which the valves are inserted, respectively; each of the pockets is connected to the fluid flow path through a discharge flow path; and the discharge flow path comprises a first section extending from the pocket, and a second section that is bent and extends from the rear end of the first section.

Description

Manifold fluid module

[0001] The present invention relates to a manifold fluid module, and more particularly, to a manifold fluid module in which heat exchanger and valve components are modularized into one.

[0002] In electric vehicles that use batteries to provide driving power, the use of batteries as a heat source for heating and cooling means that the driving range is reduced. To overcome the above problem, a method of applying a heat pump system, which has been widely used in household heating and cooling devices, to electric vehicles has been proposed.

[0003] For reference, a heat pump operates on a cycle where a liquid fluid evaporates within an evaporator, absorbing heat from its surroundings and becoming a gas. It then liquefies again, releasing heat to its surroundings through a condenser. Applying this to electric or hybrid vehicles offers the advantage of providing a heat source not available in conventional air conditioning systems.

[0004] The current modular design of heat pump systems for electric vehicles relies on a partial modular approach, with key components (such as valves, accumulators, chillers, condensers, internal heat exchangers, and sensors) connected via piping. This piping requires separate fittings and connectors, and the resulting gaps between components create significant challenges. This presents challenges in packaging, cost, and operability. Furthermore, heat pump performance deteriorates due to reduced flow rate caused by fluid resistance during the flow process. Therefore, improvements are needed.

[0005] The problem to be solved by the present invention is to provide a manifold fluid module that can improve performance and increase workability according to increased flow rate by using a manifold plate that performs the functions of a pipe, a fitting, and a housing.

[0006] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0007] A manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a manifold plate having a fluid path formed therein through which a fluid moves, and a plurality of valves coupled to the manifold plate, wherein the manifold plate has a plurality of pockets into which the plurality of valves are each inserted, the pockets are connected to the fluid path through a discharge path, and the discharge path may include a first section extending from the pocket and a second section extending by bending from a rear end of the first section.

[0008] The above pocket has an inner space open to the top, and the first section may be provided as a diagonal structure extending downwardly and slanting outward from the side of the pocket.

[0009] The above plurality of pockets are arranged linearly spaced apart, and each pocket is connected to a pair of the first sections, and a pair of the first sections can be connected to each of the left and right sides of each pocket along the arrangement direction of the pockets.

[0010] The two first sections positioned between the two pockets arranged side by side may be configured to extend toward each other so that their rear ends are connected to each other and share one second section with each other.

[0011] The tip portion exposed to the internal space of the first section can be connected to the discharge port of the valve inserted into the pocket.

[0012] The upper end of the first section may be positioned at the same level as the upper end of the discharge port, and the lower end of the first section may be positioned at a lower level than the lower end of the discharge port to form a step structure.

[0013] The cross-sectional size of the first section may be larger than the cross-sectional size of the outlet.

[0014] The slope of the diagonal structure of the first section may be configured as an angle at which an imaginary diagonal line extending from the first section to the internal space passes through an opening in the upper part of the internal space and proceeds to the outside.

[0015] The second section may be provided with a structure extending vertically or horizontally from the rear end of the first section.

[0016] An inlet path that connects to the inlet of the valve can be connected to the bottom surface of the pocket.

[0017] The above valve may include a cartridge type valve.

[0018] It further includes a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger coupled to the manifold plate, and the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger can be configured to exchange heat while a first fluid and a second fluid pass through each of them.

[0019] The above plurality of valves include a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve, and the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve may be arranged below the first heat exchanger and the first valve, and the second heat exchanger may be arranged below the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve.

[0020] The diameter of the fluid passage connected to the outlet of the first heat exchanger may be larger than the diameter of the discharge passage.

[0021] The diameter of the fluid passage connected to the outlet of the second heat exchanger may be smaller than the diameter of the fluid passage connected to the outlet of the first heat exchanger and larger than the diameter of the discharge passage.

[0022] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a manifold fluid module can be provided that can improve performance and increase workability by increasing flow rate by using a manifold plate that performs the functions of a pipe, a fitting, and a housing.

[0023] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects mentioned above, and other effects not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description of the claims.

[0024] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] FIG. 2 is a side view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Figure 3 is a rear view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Figure 4 is a drawing showing part “II” in Figure 1.

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic drawing showing pockets and discharge paths provided on a manifold plate in a manifold fluid module.

[0029] Figure 6 is a drawing showing part “A” in Figure 4.

[0030] Figures 7 and 8 are drawings showing the fluid path, discharge path, and fluid port provided on the manifold plate.

[0031] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a vehicle thermal management system including a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0032] Figure 10 is a drawing showing the operation of the thermal management system in cooling mode.

[0033] Figure 11 is a drawing showing the movement of refrigerant in a manifold plate in cooling mode.

[0034] Figure 12 is a drawing showing the operation of the thermal management system in heating mode.

[0035] Figure 13 is a drawing showing the movement of refrigerant in a manifold plate in heating mode.

[0036] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated and described in the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the present invention to specific embodiments, but should be understood to include all modifications, equivalents, and substitutes included in the spirit and technical scope of the present invention. Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but the components are not limited by the terms. The terms are used only for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the present invention, a second component may be referred to as a first component, and similarly, a first component may also be referred to as a second component. The term and / or includes a combination of a plurality of related described items or any of a plurality of related described items.

[0037] When a component is referred to as being "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, but that there may be other components intervening. Conversely, when a component is referred to as being "directly connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components intervening.

[0038] In the description of embodiments, when one component is described as being formed "on or under" another component, "on or under" includes both cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other or where one or more other components are formed indirectly between the two components. In addition, when expressed as "on or under," it can include the meaning of not only the upward direction but also the downward direction based on one component.

[0039] The terminology used in this application is only used to describe specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, it should be understood that the terms "comprise" or "have" indicate the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part, or combination thereof described in the specification, but do not exclude in advance the possibility of the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention pertains. Terms defined in commonly used dictionaries should be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined herein.

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings. Regardless of the drawing numbers, identical or corresponding components are given the same reference numbers, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0042] FIG. 1 is a front view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a side view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a rear view showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a drawing showing part “II” in FIG. 1, FIG. 5 is a drawing schematically showing pockets and discharge channels provided in a manifold plate in a manifold fluid module, FIG. 6 is a drawing showing part “A” in FIG. 4, and FIGS. 7 and 8 are drawings showing fluid channels, discharge channels, and fluid ports provided in a manifold plate.

[0043] Referring to the drawings, a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a manifold plate (100) in which a fluid path (110) through which fluid moves is formed, and a heat exchanger (200) and a valve (300) coupled to the manifold plate (100).

[0044] A bottom plate (101) can be joined to one side of the manifold plate (100) to cover the fluid path (110), and can be manufactured by joining using brazing, structural adhesive, gasket, etc. In addition, the material of the manifold plate (100) can be applied in various ways depending on the purpose and function, such as aluminum, thermoplastic, stainless steel, etc., depending on the manufacturing method.

[0045] The manifold plate (100) is formed so that a fluid path (110) is inserted roughly inside, and may have a plate shape with a predetermined thickness. A heat exchanger (200) including a first heat exchanger (210) and a second heat exchanger (220) may be coupled to the manifold plate (100). In addition, a plurality of valves (300) are further coupled to form a modular structure, thereby reducing the manufacturing work of the product and the work of the vehicle assembly line. In addition, the manifold plate (100) can simultaneously perform the functions of piping, fittings, and housing, thereby reducing costs and improving workability.

[0046] A fluid path (110) that guides movement in heat exchange, expansion, inflow, and outflow of a fluid can be formed on the front and rear sides of the manifold plate (100). The fluid path (110) can include a first fluid path (111), a second fluid path (112), a third fluid path (113), a fourth fluid path (114), and a fifth fluid path (115).

[0047] Additionally, various fluid ports (120) for the inflow and outflow of fluid may be provided on the rear side of the manifold plate (100). The fluid ports (120) may include a first port (121), a second port (122), a third port (123), a fourth port (124), and a fifth port (125).

[0048] A first heat exchanger (210) and a second heat exchanger (220) may be coupled to the front surface of the manifold plate (100). A first fluid and a second fluid may exchange heat by passing through the first heat exchanger (210) and the second heat exchanger (220), respectively. In an embodiment, a water-cooled condenser may be used as the first heat exchanger (210), and a chiller may be used as the second heat exchanger (220). In addition, the first fluid may include a refrigerant, and the second fluid may include cooling water.

[0049] A valve (300) may be coupled to the front of the manifold plate (100). The valve (300) may include a first valve (310), a second valve (320), a third valve (330), and a fourth valve (340). The valve (300) may perform expansion, flow control, and opening / closing functions of a fluid (refrigerant) moving along a fluid path (110). In an embodiment, the valve (300) may include a cartridge type valve. In addition, although the present embodiment exemplifies that four valves (300) are coupled, this is not limited thereto, and the number of valves (300) may be adjusted in various ways.

[0050] In an embodiment, a second valve (320), a third valve (330), and a fourth valve (340) may be arranged below the first heat exchanger (210) and the first valve (310), and the second heat exchanger (220) may be arranged below the second valve (320), the third valve (330), and the fourth valve (340).

[0051] As shown in the drawing, the first heat exchanger (210) and the first valve (310) may be arranged at the top, and the second heat exchanger (220) may be arranged at the bottom, with the second valve (320), the third valve (330), and the fourth valve (340) arranged in a parallel row. Accordingly, the refrigerant introduced into the first valve (310) may be introduced into the second valve (320) located at the bottom by gravity, or may pass through the first heat exchanger (210) and be introduced into the third valve (330) located at the bottom. In addition, the refrigerant introduced into the fourth valve (340) may be introduced into the second heat exchanger (220) located at the bottom by gravity. In other words, the refrigerant can be easily moved using gravity.

[0052] Meanwhile, the manifold plate (100) may have a plurality of pockets (130) on the front side, into which a plurality of valves (300) are each inserted. The pockets (130) may include a first pocket (131) into which a first valve (310) is inserted, a first pocket (132) into which a second valve (320) is inserted, a third pocket (133) into which a third valve (330) is inserted, and a fourth pocket (134) into which a fourth valve (340) is inserted. The second pocket (132), the third pocket (133), and the fourth pocket (134) may be arranged approximately linearly and spaced apart from each other by a predetermined interval.

[0053] Each pocket (130) may have an internal space (130a) that is open to the front. The internal space (130a) has a roughly cylindrical structure and may be configured such that a valve (300) is inserted through an opening provided at the front end of the pocket (130).

[0054] The pocket (130) may be connected to the fluid path (110) via a discharge path (140). The discharge path (140) may include a first section (141) extending from the pocket (130) and a second section (142) extending by bending from the rear end of the first section (141).

[0055] The tip portion exposed to the internal space (130a) of the first section (141) can be connected to the discharge port (301) of the valve (300) inserted into the pocket (130). Accordingly, the fluid discharged from the discharge port (301) of the valve (300) can move to the fluid path (110) along the first section (141) and the second section (142) of the discharge path (140).

[0056] An inlet path (150) connected to the inlet port (302) of the valve (300) may be connected to the bottom surface of the pocket (130). Fluid that flows into the valve (300) along the inlet path (150) is discharged into the first section (141) of the discharge path (140) by the operation of the valve (300), and moves again along the fluid path (110) through the second section (142).

[0057] As shown in Fig. 4, in a state where at least three pockets (130) are arranged in a row, each pocket (130) is connected to a pair of first sections (141), and a pair of first sections (141) can be connected to each of the left and right sides of each pocket (130) along the arrangement direction of the pockets (130).

[0058] Based on the drawing, the first section (141) may be provided as a diagonal structure extending outwardly from the side of the pocket (130). In addition, the second section (142) may be provided as a structure extending vertically or horizontally from the rear end of the first section (141).

[0059] In detail, two first sections (141) positioned between two pockets (130) arranged side by side and adjacent to each other may be configured to extend obliquely toward each other so that their rear ends are connected to each other and share one second section (142). For example, a first section (141) extending from the second pocket (132) toward the third pocket (133) and a first section (141) extending from the third pocket (133) toward the second pocket (132) may have a structure in which their respective rear ends are connected to each other and join in a “V” shape, and one second section (142) is connected to this joining portion. Accordingly, the fluid discharged from each of the two adjacent valves (300) may move along each of the first sections (141), join at a location where the second section (142) begins, and then move along the second section (142). Depending on the extension direction of the second section (142), the discharge path (140) may have an overall unfolded “Y”-shaped junction structure or a folded “Y”-shaped junction structure.

[0060] In this way, a pair of first sections (141) are connected to each other in a state where the rear end is positioned relatively rearward compared to the front end connected to the valve discharge port (301), and one second section (142) is connected to the confluence of the two first sections (141), thereby preventing the phenomenon of the fluid discharged from each valve (300) from flowing back to the valve (300) instead of moving along the second section (142) at the confluence, and reducing the resistance to movement of the fluid, thereby increasing the flow rate. In addition, when the fluids flowing along the first sections (141) on both sides confluence and collide at the confluence, the flow impact is reduced, thereby improving noise. Therefore, the overall performance is improved.

[0061] In an embodiment, the slope of the diagonal structure of the first section (141) may be configured as an angle (θ) at which an imaginary diagonal line (L) extending from the first section (141) to the internal space (130a) passes through the opening at the top of the internal space (130a) and advances to the outside without being obstructed by the side of the pocket (130).

[0062] As shown in Fig. 5, an angle (θ) may be configured such that a machining drill (T) may be obliquely inserted into the internal space (130a) from the outside through an opening in the upper portion of the internal space (130a) to machine the side surface of the pocket (130). That is, the first section (141) may be formed by machining in a diagonal shape using a machining drill (T) obliquely positioned within the internal space (130a). In addition, the virtual diagonal line (L) may correspond to a machining path of the machining drill (T).

[0063] Referring to FIG. 6, the first section (141) of the discharge path (140) formed in this manner can be formed so that the cross-sectional size (D2) is larger than the cross-sectional size (D1) of the discharge port (301) of the valve (300). In addition, when the valve (300) is inserted into the pocket (130), the upper end of the first section (141) is positioned at the same level as the upper end of the discharge port (301), and the lower end of the first section (141) is positioned at a lower level than the lower end of the discharge port (301) to form a step structure (S) (the upper and lower ends are based on the drawing). This step structure (S) can prevent the fluid flowing back along the first section (141) from flowing into the discharge port (301) of the valve (300).

[0064] Referring to FIGS. 7 and 8 along with FIG. 3, a first fluid channel (111) in a fluid path (110) may be connected to an outlet of a first heat exchanger (210). A second fluid channel (112) may be connected to an inlet of a second valve (320). A third fluid channel (113) may be connected to an inlet of a second heat exchanger (220), and a fourth fluid channel (114) may be connected to an outlet of the second heat exchanger (220). A fifth fluid channel (115) may connect a discharge channel (140) between a third valve (330) and a fourth valve (340) to the fourth fluid channel (114).

[0065] The diameter of the first fluid passage (111) connected to the outlet of the first heat exchanger (210) can be configured to be larger than the diameter of the discharge passage (140). Specifically, the diameter of the first fluid passage (111) can be larger than the diameter of the first section (141) of the discharge passage (140). In addition, the diameter of the first fluid passage (111) can be larger than the diameters of the second fluid passage (112), the third fluid passage (113), and the fourth fluid passage (114).

[0066] The reason why the diameter of the first fluid path (111) is made larger than that of the other paths is to minimize pressure loss when the expanded refrigerant passes through the first heat exchanger (210) in a low-temperature, low-pressure state during heating mode operation and is then supplied to the compressor (400). This prevents the performance of the compressor (400) from deteriorating.

[0067] The diameter of the fourth fluid passage connected to the outlet of the second heat exchanger may be configured to be smaller than the diameter of the first fluid passage and larger than the diameter of the discharge passage. Specifically, the diameter of the fourth fluid passage (114) may be smaller than the diameter of the first fluid passage (111) and larger than the diameter of the first section (141) of the discharge passage (140). In addition, the diameter of the fourth fluid passage (114) may be larger than the diameters of the second fluid passage (112) and the third fluid passage (113).

[0068] In an embodiment, the diameter of the first fluid passage (111) may be 16 mm, and the diameter of the fourth fluid passage (114) may be 14 mm. The diameters of the first section (141), the second fluid passage (112), the third fluid passage (113), and the fifth fluid passage (115) may be 10 mm.

[0069] This manifold plate (100) can be connected to components of a thermal management system including an internal condenser (500), an outdoor unit (600), an accumulator (800), etc., as shown in FIG. 9, through a fluid port (120). That is, the first port (121) can be connected to the internal condenser (500), so that refrigerant passing through the internal condenser (500) can flow into the first valve (310) through the first port (121). The second port (122) can be connected to the first branch line (13). The third port (123) can be connected to the outdoor unit (600), so that refrigerant passing through the third valve (330) can move to the outdoor unit (600). The fourth port (124) can be connected to the outdoor unit (600), so that refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (600) can flow into the fourth valve (340). The fifth port (125) is connected to the accumulator (800) so that the refrigerant passing through the third valve (330) and the fourth valve (340) can move to the accumulator (800).

[0070] FIG. 9 illustrates a vehicle thermal management system including a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0071] Referring to the drawings, a thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a refrigerant line (10) through which refrigerant circulates and a cooling water line (20) through which cooling water circulates.

[0072] The refrigerant line (10) may include a first refrigerant line (11) in which a compressor, an internal condenser, a first heat exchanger, an outdoor unit, an evaporator, and an accumulator are arranged, a second refrigerant line (12) in which a second heat exchanger is arranged, a first branch line (13), a second branch line (14), a third branch line (15) branched from the first refrigerant line, and a fourth branch line (16) branched from the second refrigerant line (12).

[0073] The first refrigerant line (11) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant passes through the compressor (400), the internal condenser (500), the first heat exchanger (210), the outdoor unit (600), the evaporator (700), and the accumulator (800) and then moves back to the compressor (400). In the first refrigerant line (11), a first valve (310) can be arranged between the internal condenser (500) and the first heat exchanger (210), and a third valve (330) can be arranged between the first heat exchanger (210) and the outdoor unit (600).

[0074] The compressor (400) receives power from a power source such as an engine or motor and operates to compress the introduced refrigerant and then discharge it into the first refrigerant line (11) in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state.

[0075] An internal condenser (500) is installed inside an air conditioning unit (AC) and can exchange heat between refrigerant discharged from a compressor (400) and air flowing inside the air conditioning unit (AC). The air is heated in the internal condenser (500) and supplied to the vehicle interior to heat the vehicle interior.

[0076] The first valve (310) can perform expansion, flow control, and opening / closing functions of the refrigerant passing through the internal condenser (500) and moving to the outdoor unit (600). In an embodiment, the first valve (310) can be a full open type electronic 3-way expansion valve (EXV).

[0077] The first heat exchanger (210) can be configured to be connected to a cooling water line (20) through which cooling water moves so that the refrigerant and cooling water exchange heat.

[0078] The third valve (330) can perform expansion, flow control, and opening / closing functions of the refrigerant passing through the first heat exchanger (210) and moving to the outdoor unit (600). In an embodiment, the third valve (330) may be a fully open type electronic 3-way expansion valve. Of course, the third valve (330) may also be a 3-way valve without an expansion function.

[0079] The outdoor unit (600) can exchange heat between the introduced refrigerant and the heat medium. In an embodiment, the outdoor unit (600) may include an air-cooled condenser, and the heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant may include outside air. The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the outside air may be condensed.

[0080] The evaporator (700) is installed inside an air conditioning unit (AC) and can exchange heat between the introduced refrigerant and the air flowing inside the AC. The air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied to the vehicle interior to cool the interior of the vehicle.

[0081] A fifth valve (350) may be arranged on the inlet side of the evaporator (700). In an embodiment, the fifth valve (350) may be a solenoid type superheat controlled 2-way expansion valve (TXV).

[0082] A temperature control door (DR) may be installed between the evaporator (700) and the internal condenser (500) inside the air conditioning unit (AC) to control the amount of air bypassing the internal condenser (500) and the amount of air passing through the internal condenser (500).

[0083] Additionally, a PTC heater (HT) may be installed inside the air conditioning unit (AC). The PTC heater (HT) is placed inside the air conditioning unit (AC) together with the internal condenser (500) and is used as a means of heating the air, and may be used as a means of supplementing the temperature required for vehicle air conditioning when the internal condenser (500) does not meet this temperature.

[0084] An accumulator (800) may be placed on the inlet side of the compressor (400) in the first refrigerant line (11). When refrigerant flows in along the first refrigerant line (11), the accumulator (800) can separate the refrigerant into gas and liquid and supply the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor (400).

[0085] The first branch line (13) may be configured so that the refrigerant passing through the first valve (310) bypasses the first heat exchanger (210) and the outdoor unit (600) and moves to the evaporator (700). One end of the first branch line (13) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) between the first valve (310) and the first heat exchanger (210), and the other end may be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) at the inlet side of the evaporator (700). A second valve (320) may be arranged in the first branch line (13).

[0086] The second branch line (14) may be configured so that the refrigerant passing through the first valve (310) bypasses the first heat exchanger (210) and the third valve (330) and moves to the outdoor unit (600). One end of the second branch line (14) may be connected to the second valve (320), and the other end may be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) between the third valve (330) and the outdoor unit (600).

[0087] The third branch line (15) may be configured so that the refrigerant passing through the first heat exchanger (210) bypasses the outdoor unit (600) and the evaporator (700) and moves to the accumulator (800). One end of the third branch line (15) may be connected to the third valve (330), and the other end may be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) at the inlet side of the accumulator (800).

[0088] The second refrigerant line (12) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (600) bypasses the evaporator (700), passes through the second heat exchanger (220), and then passes through the accumulator (800) to return to the compressor (400). One end of the second refrigerant line (12) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) between the outdoor unit (600) and the evaporator (700), and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) between the evaporator (700) and the accumulator (800). A fourth valve (340) can be arranged on the inlet side of the second heat exchanger (220) in the second refrigerant line (12).

[0089] The fourth valve (340) can perform expansion, flow control, and opening / closing functions of the refrigerant moving to the second heat exchanger (220). In an embodiment, the fourth valve (340) may be a fully open type electronic 3-way expansion valve. Of course, the fourth valve (340) may also be a 3-way valve without an expansion function.

[0090] The fourth branch line (16) may be configured so that the refrigerant from the second refrigerant line (12) bypasses the second heat exchanger (220) and moves to the accumulator (800). One end of the fourth branch line (16) may be connected to the fourth valve (340), and the other end may be connected to the first refrigerant line (11) at the inlet side of the accumulator (800).

[0091] Meanwhile, the coolant line (20) may include a first coolant line (21) through which coolant passing through the electric component (1000) is circulated, and a second coolant line (22) through which coolant passing through the battery (1300) is circulated.

[0092] The first cooling water line (21) may be configured to pass through the first heat exchanger (210) and allow the cooling water to exchange heat with the refrigerant. An electrical component (1000), a first pump (1100) for circulating the cooling water, and a radiator (1200) for cooling the cooling water heated by the electrical component (1000) may be arranged in the first cooling water line (21).

[0093] The second cooling water line (22) may be configured to pass through a second heat exchanger (220) and allow the cooling water to exchange heat with the refrigerant. A battery (1300) and a second pump (1400) for circulating the cooling water may be arranged in the second cooling water line (22).

[0094] The first coolant line (21) and the second coolant line (22) can be interconnected or separated from each other through a coolant valve (1500).

[0095] Below, the operation according to the operating mode of the thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present invention is described.

[0096] Figure 10 shows the operation in cooling mode, and Figure 11 shows the movement of refrigerant in the manifold plate in cooling mode.

[0097] Referring to Fig. 10, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110) and moves along the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the internal condenser (500) and the first valve (171), and exchanges heat with the cooling water of the first cooling water line in the first heat exchanger. The first valve allows the refrigerant to pass in a non-expanded state, and the second valve blocks the first branch line to prevent the refrigerant from flowing.

[0098] The refrigerant passing through the first heat exchanger passes through the third valve, exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor unit, then passes through the fifth valve, expands, passes through the evaporator, and flows into the compressor via the accumulator. The third valve blocks the third branch line, preventing the refrigerant from flowing.

[0099] A portion of the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit travels along the second refrigerant line, passes through the fourth valve, and in an expanded state flows into the second heat exchanger, where it exchanges heat with the coolant in the second coolant line. The cooled coolant then flows along the second coolant line and cools the battery. The refrigerant passing through the second heat exchanger passes through the accumulator and flows into the compressor.

[0100] Referring to Fig. 11, the refrigerant passing through the internal condenser (500) flows into the manifold plate (100) through the first port (121), passes through the first valve (310), and flows into the first heat exchanger (210). The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the cooling water in the first heat exchanger (210) passes through the third valve (330) along the first fluid path (111), is discharged from the manifold plate (100) through the third port (123), and moves to the outdoor unit (600) along the first refrigerant line (11).

[0101] Some of the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (600) flows into the manifold plate (100) through the fourth port (124) along the second refrigerant line (12), passes through the fourth valve (340), expands in the fourth valve (340), and flows into the second heat exchanger (220) along the third fluid path (113). The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the cooling water in the second heat exchanger moves along the fourth fluid path (114), is discharged from the plate (100) through the fifth port (125), and moves to the accumulator (800) along the first refrigerant line (11).

[0102] Figure 12 shows the operation in heating mode, and Figure 13 shows the movement of refrigerant in the manifold plate in heating mode.

[0103] Referring to Fig. 12, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), moves along the first refrigerant line (11), passes through the internal condenser (500), and flows into the first valve (171). The first valve expands the refrigerant, and a portion of the refrigerant passing through the first valve exchanges heat with the cooling water of the first cooling water line in the first heat exchanger (heat absorption). The refrigerant passing through the first heat exchanger moves along the third branch line through the third valve, passes through the accumulator, and flows into the compressor.

[0104] With the fifth valve closed, the remaining refrigerant that has passed through the first valve moves through the second valve along the second branch line, bypassing the first heat exchanger, and exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor unit (heat absorption). The refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor heat exchanger passes through the fourth valve along the second refrigerant line, moves through the fourth valve along the fourth branch line, bypassing the second heat exchanger, and flows into the compressor via the accumulator.

[0105] Referring to Fig. 13, the refrigerant passing through the internal condenser (500) flows into the manifold plate (100) through the first port (121), expands while passing through the first valve (310), and some of it flows into the first heat exchanger (210). The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the cooling water in the first heat exchanger (210) passes through the third valve (330) along the first fluid path (111), moves along the fifth fluid path (115), is discharged from the manifold plate (100) through the fifth port (125), and moves to the accumulator (800) along the first refrigerant line (11).

[0106] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the first valve (310) passes through the second valve (320) along the second fluid path (112), and is discharged from the manifold plate (100) through the third port (123) from the second valve (320) and moves to the outdoor unit (600) along the first refrigerant line (11).

[0107] The refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (600) flows into the manifold plate (100) through the fourth port (124) along the second refrigerant line (12), passes through the fourth valve (340), moves along the fifth fluid path (115), is discharged from the manifold plate (100) through the fifth port (125), and moves to the accumulator (800) along the first refrigerant line (11).

[0108] While the present invention has been described above with reference to specific embodiments, those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications and variations can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims below. Furthermore, any differences resulting from such modifications and variations should be construed as being within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A manifold plate in which a fluid path is formed through which fluid moves inside; and A plurality of valves coupled to the above manifold plate; Includes, A manifold fluid module, characterized in that the manifold plate has a plurality of pockets into which the plurality of valves are each inserted, the pockets being connected to the fluid path through a discharge path, the discharge path including a first section extending from the pocket and a second section extending by being bent from the rear end of the first section.

2. In paragraph 1, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the pocket has an inner space open to the top, and the first section is provided in a diagonal structure extending outwardly from the side of the pocket.

3. In paragraph 2, The above plurality of pockets are arranged linearly spaced apart, A manifold fluid module characterized in that each pocket is connected in pairs with the first sections, and a pair of the first sections are connected to each of the left and right sides of each pocket along the arrangement direction of the pockets.

4. In paragraph 3, A manifold fluid module characterized in that two first sections positioned between two pockets arranged side by side extend toward each other so that their rear ends are connected to each other and are configured to share one second section with each other.

5. In paragraph 2, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the tip portion exposed to the internal space of the first section is connected to the discharge port of the valve inserted into the pocket.

6. In paragraph 5, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the upper end of the first section is positioned at the same level as the upper end of the discharge port, and the lower end of the first section is positioned at a lower level than the lower end of the discharge port to form a stepped structure.

7. In paragraph 5, A manifold fluid module, characterized in that the cross-sectional size of the first section is larger than the cross-sectional size of the discharge port.

8. In paragraph 2, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the slope of the diagonal structure of the first section is configured as an angle at which an imaginary diagonal line extending from the first section to the internal space passes through an opening in the upper portion of the internal space and proceeds to the outside.

9. In paragraph 1, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the second section is provided with a structure extending vertically or horizontally from the rear end of the first section.

10. In paragraph 1, A manifold fluid module characterized in that an inlet path is connected to the bottom surface of the pocket and is connected to the inlet of the valve.

11. In paragraph 1, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the above valve comprises a cartridge type valve.

12. In paragraph 1, Further comprising a first heat exchanger and a second heat exchanger coupled to the above manifold plate, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the first heat exchanger and the second heat exchanger are configured to exchange heat as the first fluid and the second fluid pass therethrough, respectively.

13. In paragraph 12, The above plurality of valves include a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve are arranged below the first heat exchanger and the first valve, and the second heat exchanger is arranged below the second valve, the third valve, and the fourth valve.

14. In paragraph 12, A manifold fluid module, characterized in that the diameter of the fluid path connected to the outlet of the first heat exchanger is larger than the diameter of the discharge path.

15. In paragraph 14, A manifold fluid module, characterized in that the diameter of the fluid passage connected to the outlet of the second heat exchanger is smaller than the diameter of the fluid passage connected to the outlet of the first heat exchanger and larger than the diameter of the discharge passage.

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