Attachment system for angled attachment of a cooling module in a vehicle

Abstract

The invention relates to an attachment system (4) for angled attachment of a cooling module (3) in a vehicle (1), the system comprising at least one primary attachment device (5) comprising an anchoring housing (52) which is configured to be connected to a first support member (21) of the vehicle (1), at least one secondary attachment device (6), and a removable movable crossmember (7) which is capable of supporting the cooling module (3) and is movably mounted on a second support member (22) via the at least one secondary attachment device (6).

Description

[0001] TITLE: FIXING SYSTEM FOR THE INCLINED FIXING OF A COOLING MODULE IN A VEHICLE

[0002] The invention relates to a system for fixing a cooling module for a vehicle, in particular for fixing said module in an inclined position. The invention also relates to an arrangement comprising such a fixing system and a cooling module. The invention also relates to a vehicle equipped with an arrangement according to the invention. The invention finally relates to a method for mounting a cooling module in the vehicle.

[0003] In the automotive industry, cooling modules, also known as heat treatment modules, radiators or cooling cases, are typically fitted to the front of the vehicle. In particular, the cooling module may be mounted on a support such as a technical front of the vehicle, corresponding to a structure of the vehicle located in front of the powertrain and having the function of supporting various parts of the vehicle.

[0004] It is known to fix the cooling module vertically or substantially vertically, by means of a fixing system comprising upper fixing elements and lower fixing elements aligned or substantially aligned along the vertical direction, i.e. arranged one above the other. Such positioning of the cooling module nevertheless generates a significant vertical bulk requiring a high positioning of the hood negatively affecting the aerodynamics of the vehicle.

[0005] In order to solve such a drawback, it is known to arrange the cooling module in an inclined manner relative to the vertical direction. Such a principle advantageously makes it possible to optimize the dimension of the cooling module while lowering the position of the hood so as to increase the available heat exchange power, compared to vehicles comprising a vertical cooling module and a lowered hood, and to optimize the aerodynamic performance of the vehicle. The fastening systems implemented then conventionally comprise upper fastening elements screwed onto an upper cross member, and lower fastening elements mounted on a lower cross member, offset relative to each other along the longitudinal direction of the vehicle.Such a system has the disadvantage of being more cumbersome, due to the addition of a specific upper crosspiece, and the associated assembly process is long and complex due to the multiple screw connections.

[0006] The present invention falls within this context and aims to provide a fixing system for a cooling module and a method for mounting such a module which is simpler to implement and less expensive and bulky than the systems of the prior art.

[0007] The invention thus relates to a fixing system for the inclined fixing of a cooling module in a vehicle comprising at least one primary fixing device, at least one secondary fixing device and a cross member configured to be movable and removable extending along a first direction.

[0008] The at least one primary fastening device comprises a connecting member, configured to be connected to the cooling module, and an anchoring housing configured to be connected to a first support of the vehicle, said anchoring housing comprising a recess configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting member. The at least one secondary fastening device comprises a connecting block connected to the crossmember and comprises an angled connecting tab configured to cooperate reversibly with a second support of the vehicle and to allow the movement of the at least one crossmember between at least two positions including an inclined position relative to a second direction, orthogonal to the first direction. Optionally:

[0009] - the anchoring housing of the primary fixing device comprises a return member, in particular a leaf spring; and / or

[0010] - the anchoring box and the connecting member are of complementary shapes and / or are configured to cooperate by clipping.

[0011] For example, the primary fixing device comprises a fixing foot attached and fixed to the anchor box or forming a single-piece assembly with the anchor box.

[0012] Optionally, the connecting block comprises at least one contact portion, configured to extend in support of a first surface of the second support when the crosspiece is in a position such that the bent connecting tab extends in contact with the second support, in particular in contact with a second surface, opposite the first surface, of the second support.

[0013] According to an exemplary embodiment, the connecting block and the angled connecting tab are configured to extend in abutment against the second support along at least two distinct directions orthogonal to each other and orthogonal to the first direction.

[0014] Optionally, the connecting block and / or the angled connecting tab comprises at least one damping and / or compensation member, comprising in particular graining and / or elastically deformable ribs, configured to extend into contact with the second support in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece.

[0015] Optionally, the connecting block forms at least one recess relative to the cross member, said recess comprising at least one edge configured to extend in abutment with the second support along the first direction.

[0016] The invention also extends to an arrangement comprising at least one fixing system according to the invention and a cooling module: - the cooling module comprising a frame to which the connecting member of the primary fixing device is connected; or

[0017] - the cooling module comprising a water box, configured to allow the circulation of a fluid, to which the connecting member of the primary fixing device is connected.

[0018] The invention also relates to a vehicle comprising an arrangement as described above, a first support, such as a side member, and a second support, such as a cradle, the cooling module being connected to the movable cross member and the assembly formed by the movable cross member and the cooling module being configured to be moved between at least one initial position, in which the cooling module extends along the second direction and a final operating position, in which the cooling module is inclined relative to the second direction.

[0019] The invention finally relates to a method of mounting a cooling module in a vehicle according to the invention, comprising:

[0020] - positioning the movable crosspiece on the second support by means of the at least one secondary fixing device in the initial position;

[0021] - positioning of the cooling module on the mobile cross member;

[0022] - tilting the assembly formed by the cooling module and the movable crosspiece towards at least one position distinct from the initial position;

[0023] - fixing the cooling module in an operating position by cooperation between the connecting member and the anchoring housing of the at least one primary fixing device.

[0024] Other details, characteristics and advantages will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description given below, for informational and non-limiting purposes, in relation to the various exemplary embodiments illustrated in the following figure: Figure 1 is a schematic representation seen from the front of an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle equipped with an arrangement comprising a system for fixing a cooling module.

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic representation of the cooling module equipped with the arrangement.

[0026] Figure 3 is a schematic representation of the cooling module equipped with the fixing system arranged in an initial position, in particular vertical.

[0027] Figure 4 is a schematic representation of the cooling module equipped with the fixing system arranged in a final inclined operating position, in particular relative to the vertical direction.

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic representation of a primary fastening device of the fastening system.

[0029] Figure 6 is a schematic representation of an anchor housing of the primary fixing device.

[0030] Figure 7 is a schematic representation of the anchor housing of the primary fixing device.

[0031] Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a secondary attachment device of the attachment system arranged on a support of the vehicle.

[0032] Figure 9 is a schematic representation of the secondary fixing device and a cross member in an intermediate assembly position.

[0033] Figure 10 is a schematic representation of the secondary fixing device and the cross member in a final operating position.

[0034] Figure 1 schematically illustrates an exemplary embodiment of a vehicle 1, in particular a motor vehicle 1. The vehicle 1 considered may be of any type. For example, the vehicle 1 may be a private vehicle or a utility vehicle. Also, the vehicle 1 may have a thermal, electric or hybrid engine.

[0035] According to the conventions relating to the automotive field, throughout the description below the direction in which the motor vehicle 1 moves in a straight line is defined as being the longitudinal direction X, oriented from front to rear. The direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X and located in a plane parallel to a ground on which the vehicle 1 rests is called the transverse direction Y. The direction perpendicular to the directions X and Y is called the vertical direction Z. Thus, a direct reference frame XYZ is defined. The terms "top" and "bottom" or "upper" and "lower" are understood in their general sense, the terms "bottom" and "lower" designating a greater proximity to the ground. The same applies to the terms "front" and "rear". Also, the terms "first", "second", "primary", "secondary" are intended to distinguish similar elements and not to define a hierarchy within said elements.

[0036] The vehicle 1 comprises an arrangement 2, further described below, comprising a cooling module 3 and a fixing system 4 according to the invention configured to allow inclined fixing of the cooling module 3 within the vehicle 1. Here, the term "inclined" means that the cooling module 3, arranged in the vehicle 1, is inclined relative to the vertical direction Z. Such a principle advantageously makes it possible to reduce the bulk generated along the vertical Z, to lower a height of a hood of the vehicle 1 and thus to improve the aerodynamics of the vehicle 1. Such a positioning also makes it possible to increase the available heat exchange power, compared to arrangements of the prior art in which the cooling module is positioned vertically and the hood of the vehicle is lowered, by increasing the exchange surface of the cooling module 3.

[0037] The cooling module 3 can also be referred to as a heat treatment module, radiator or cooling case. It is equipped on the front of the vehicle 1 and is intended for the heat treatment, particularly the cooling, of at least one engine or powertrain equipping the vehicle 1 and / or at least one electronic component equipping the vehicle 1. The cooling module 3 delimits at least in part a circuit configured to allow the circulation of a fluid, such as a cooling fluid, capable of implementing a heat exchange, for example here a water-air heat exchange between said fluid and an air flow outside the vehicle 1 entering the front of the vehicle 1.

[0038] Conventionally, the cooling module 3 comprises a central element comprising a plurality of bundles, not detailed. The cooling module 3 may comprise a frame and / or at least one water box 31 connected to the central element and arranged on at least a portion of a periphery thereof. The term water box 31 is understood to mean an element capable of allowing the circulation and / or storage of the fluid. For example, the central element may be framed by water boxes 31 so that a water box 31 is arranged on each side of the central element, in particular along the transverse direction Y.

[0039] The vehicle 1 also comprises at least one support or a plurality of supports configured to carry and hold the cooling module 3 via the fixing system 4 according to the invention. In particular, according to the exemplary embodiment described below, the vehicle 1 comprises at least a first support 21 and a second support 22.

[0040] In particular, the first support 21 and the second support 22 are elements of a technical front face of the vehicle 1 and / or of a front engine compartment of the vehicle 1. The term "technical front face" means a structure at least partly located in front of the powertrain, or engine block, and which is configured to support different components, in particular the cooling module 3, and / or to integrate different functions of the vehicle 1, for example supporting at least one hood stop or a hood lock.

[0041] The technical front end can take multiple forms. It notably comprises a plurality of parts made of a plastic material and / or a plurality of parts made of a metallic material. According to an exemplary embodiment, the first support 21 is at least one side member of the vehicle 1 and the second support 22 is a cradle of the vehicle 1.

[0042] Generally speaking, the fixing system 4 according to the invention comprises at least one primary fixing device 5, at least one secondary fixing device 6 and a removable mobile cross member 7 configured to ensure at least partial support of the cooling module 3 and to be moved between different positions. The fixing system 4 is advantageously configured to maintain the cooling module 3 in an inclined position, here relative to the vertical direction Z, within the vehicle 1.

[0043] Preferably, the fixing system 4 comprises a plurality of primary fixing devices 5, in particular two primary fixing devices 5 arranged on each side of the cooling module 3 so as to frame the latter along a defined direction, and a plurality of secondary fixing devices 6, in particular two secondary fixing devices 6 arranged on each side of the cooling module 3 so as to frame the latter along this same direction. In this case, the primary fixing devices 5 correspond to upper fixings of the cooling module 3 and the secondary fixing devices 6 correspond to lower fixings of said module when the arrangement 2 is installed in the vehicle 1.The primary fixing devices 5 are thus arranged on either side of the cooling module 3 along the transverse direction Y and the same applies to the secondary fixing devices 6.

[0044] For the sake of clarity, the following description is made with reference to a single primary fixing device 5. It is nevertheless understood that it extends mutatis mutandis to a plurality of primary fixing devices 5. The different primary fixing devices 5 may also be identical or, alternatively, be produced according to the different alternatives or variants of the invention. A similar principle applies for the description of the secondary fixing device 6. The primary fixing device 5 comprises a connecting member 51 and an anchoring housing 52 comprising a recess 53 configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting member 51.

[0045] The connecting member 51 is configured to be connected to the cooling module 3. It comprises a body 51a and a head 51b, said head 51b being configured to cooperate with the anchoring housing 52. In particular, the connecting member 51, for example the body 51a, is connected to the frame and / or to the water box 31 of the cooling module 3. In order to allow suitable and unhindered cooperation of the connecting member 51 and the anchoring housing 52, said member is preferably arranged transversely, or even orthogonally to a portion of the frame or the water box 31 carrying it, the head 51b thus forming a free end of the connecting member 51 facing the anchoring housing 52 prior to their cooperation.

[0046] Optionally but preferably, the assembly formed by the connecting member 51 and the frame or the assembly formed by the connecting member 51 and the water box 31 is a single piece. The term “single piece” means that such elements cannot be separated or dissociated from each other without resulting in their degradation or even their destruction. Alternatively, the connecting member 51 is attached and fixed to the cooling module 3, for example by welding.

[0047] In particular, the connecting member 51 is made of a plastic material, for example a filled plastic material, such as polyamide or polypropylene, for example reinforced with glass fibers, or of a metallic material, such as aluminum or other. A similar material can therefore be used for the frame and / or the water box 31 of the cooling module 3.

[0048] Optionally, the connecting member 51 comprises a primary filtration member 54. Here, the term “filtering member” is understood to mean a member having the function of limiting, or even preventing, the propagation of solid-borne noise from the cooling module 3 to a support, in this case to the first support 21 and, consequently, to the anchoring housing 52. The primary filtration member 54 thus ensures the decoupling of the cooling module 3 relative to the first support 21 so that the noises emitted by acoustic radiation from the cooling module 3 due to the vibrations of the powertrain do not affect, or only slightly, the first support 21. In particular, the primary filtration member 54 is arranged at the head 51 b of the connecting member 51 and forms a membrane surrounding all or part of it.For example, the primary filtration member 54 is made of an elastically deformable material, such as plastic, in particular EPDM, or rubber. In particular, the primary filtration member 54 is removable relative to the connecting pad 5 and is configured to be reversibly mounted on the connecting pad 5.

[0049] The anchoring housing 52 is configured to be connected to the first support 21 of the vehicle 1. For example, as explained above, said first support 21 is a side member of the vehicle 1. In particular, when the fastening system 4 according to the invention comprises a plurality of primary fastening devices 5, each of the primary fastening devices 5 is arranged on a first support 21, in particular a side member, which is specific to it. The recess 53 of the anchoring housing 52 is configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting member 51, in particular at least the head 51 b of the connecting member 51, so as to allow a reversible connection of the cooling module 3 with the anchoring housing 52, and, by extension, with the first support 21. The recess 53 thus forms a cavity open on one side, said open side being turned towards the cooling module 3 and the connecting member 51 within the vehicle 1.

[0050] The anchor housing 52 is made of a plastic material, in particular a filled plastic, such as polyamide or polypropylene, for example reinforced with glass fibers, or of a metallic material, such as steel.

[0051] Optionally but preferably, the anchoring housing 52 of the primary fixing device 5 comprises a return member 55. For example, the return member 55 is a leaf spring. The return member 55 is arranged in the recess 53 so as to cooperate with the connecting member 51, in particular with the head 51 b, when the arrangement 2 is assembled within the vehicle 1. It helps to keep the connecting member 51 in position in the anchoring housing 52 when the cooling module 3 is mounted in the vehicle 1 for its operation and thus to ensure a reversible connection implemented in a simple and rapid manner. In particular, the anchoring housing 52 and the connecting member 51 are configured to cooperate by clipping.

[0052] Optionally but preferably, the anchoring housing 52 and the connecting member 51 are at least partly complementary in shape. For example, the recess 53 and / or the return member 55 is at least partly complementary in shape to the head 51b of the connecting member 51.

[0053] Optionally, the primary fixing device 5 comprises a fixing foot 56 configured to connect the anchoring housing 52 to the first support 21. The fixing foot 56 is made of a plastic material, in particular a filled one, such as polyamide or polypropylene, for example reinforced with glass fibers or in a metallic material, such as steel. According to a preferred embodiment, the fixing foot 56 and the anchoring housing 52 form a single-piece assembly. They are then made of a similar material and said assembly is, for example, formed by molding or overmolding. The fixing foot 56 is then configured to be fixed to the first support 21 by welding or by means of a fixing means, such as a screw.

[0054] Alternatively, the fixing foot 56 is attached and fixed to the anchor housing 52, for example by welding, gluing and / or by means of a fixing means such as a screw and can then be fixed to the first support 21.

[0055] The secondary fixing device 6 is configured to be connected to the movable crossmember 7 so as to allow its cooperation with the second support 22 of the vehicle 1. When the fixing system 4 comprises a plurality of secondary fixing devices 6, these are configured to be arranged on either side of the crossmember 7, in particular along the transverse direction Y and / or a first direction 100 corresponding to a direction of extension of the crossmember 7. For example, a secondary fixing device 6 is arranged at each of the lateral ends 72 of the crossmember 7, delimiting the latter along the first direction 100.

[0056] The secondary fixing device 6 comprises at least one connecting block 61 connected to the movable crossmember 7. Also, the connecting block 61 and the crossmember 7 are configured to be moved concomitantly. Said connecting block 61 is arranged at one of the lateral ends 72 of the crossmember 7. The connecting block 61 extends projecting from the crossmember 7 along at least one direction of the first direction 100. The connecting block 61 is shaped and arranged so as to extend opposite the second support 22 along at least one direction when the arrangement 2 is equipped within the vehicle 1. In particular, the connecting block 61 is configured to extend opposite and in support of the second support along the vertical direction Z, that is to say that at least one vertical axis passes through the second support 22 and the connecting block 61 cooperating therewith.

[0057] The connecting block 61 comprises in particular a base 62 and an angled connecting tab 63, connected to the base 62. In particular, advantageously, the connecting block 61 and the crosspiece 7 form a single-piece assembly. For example, the connecting block 61 and the crosspiece 7 are made of a plastic material, in particular a filled plastic, such as polyamide or polypropylene, for example reinforced with glass fibers. The base 62 comprises a first face 62a, here upper, and a second face 62b, opposite, here forming a lower face configured to be turned towards the second support 22.

[0058] The connecting tab 63 is configured to cooperate with the second support 22. Such a principle makes it possible to limit the number of parts necessary for mounting the cross member 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, within the vehicle 1. Such a principle also makes it possible to simplify the mounting of the cross member 7. In particular, the second support 22 comprises at least one through-orifice 22c, configured to receive the connecting tab 63 and thus form a reversible connection. Here, the term "through-orifice" means that the orifice 22c extends from a first surface 22a of the second support 22 to a second surface 22b of the second support 22, opposite the first surface 22a.

[0059] The cooperation of the secondary fixing device 6, particularly the connecting block 61, with the second support 22 is configured to allow the movement of the crosspiece 7 and the secondary fixing device 6 between at least two distinct positions relative to a second direction 200, orthogonal to the first direction 100, as further detailed below. In other words, the crosspiece 7 is mounted to be able to rotate on the second support 22 by means of the at least one secondary fixing device 6. Additionally, optionally and due to design and mounting clearances, the crosspiece 7 can be movable according to a translational movement relative to the second support 22, for example according to a movement of the order of a few millimeters, or even centimeters.

[0060] In particular, the crosspiece 7 is configured to be tilted between different positions, for example according to a rotational and / or translational movement. For example, when the fixing system 4 according to the invention is assembled, the crosspiece 7 extends along the first direction 100, here parallel or substantially parallel to the transverse direction Y by way of example, and the crosspiece 7 is at least mounted in rotation about an axis of rotation parallel to the first direction 100. In particular, such an axis of rotation passes through the connecting block 61, or even through the connecting tab 63.

[0061] Such a principle advantageously makes it possible, when installing the cooling module 3 in the vehicle 1, to be able to place the latter on the movable cross member 7 in an initial position Pix, then to move the assembly formed by the cross member 7 and the cooling module 3 to a desired position, in particular a final operating position Pfx, according to a tilting operation taking place according to a rotational movement. It is understood that such a principle applies mutatis mutandis to a plurality of secondary fixing devices 6, the axis of rotation then being common to said devices and then passing through the connecting blocks 61 specific to them.

[0062] In particular, the assembly formed by the movable crosspiece 7 and the cooling module 3 is configured to be moved between at least one initial or nominal position Pix, in which the cooling module 3 extends along the second direction 200, and a final operating position Pfx, inclined relative to the second direction 200. In the example illustrated, the second direction 200 extends parallel, or substantially parallel, to the vertical direction Z, so that the cooling module 3 extends vertically or substantially vertically in the initial position Pix. Conversely, the cooling module 3 is inclined relative to the vertical direction Z when it is arranged in the final operating position Pfx.In particular, the inclined position of the cooling module 3 and of the fixing system 2 within the vehicle 1 corresponds to an offset between a positioning of the primary fixing device 5 and a positioning of the secondary fixing device 6 along a third direction 300, orthogonal to the first direction and the second direction 200, that is to say here parallel to the longitudinal direction X.

[0063] The connecting tab 63 extends projecting from the base 62 of the connecting block 61. In particular, the connecting tab 63 is connected to the second face 62b of the base 62 and configured to extend toward, and through, the second support 22 when the arrangement 2 is arranged in the vehicle 1.

[0064] The connecting tab 63 comprises an elbow 64 formed by at least a first segment 64a and a second segment 64b, connected together. Here, the term “segment” means a portion of a whole. In particular, said segments are rectilinear or substantially rectilinear. The first segment 64a is here connected to the base 62 while the second segment 64b forms a free end of the connecting tab 63. In general, the bent connecting tab 63 is configured to extend in support of the second support 22 along at least two distinct directions orthogonal to each other and, optionally, orthogonal to the first direction 100. Such a principle advantageously allows locking of the secondary fixing device 6 and of the crosspiece 7 relative to the second support 22 along said directions.In particular, such a blocking is configured to be implemented in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece 7, or even in a plurality of possible positions of the crosspiece 7. Preferably, such a blocking is configured to be implemented at least when the crosspiece 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, is arranged in the final operating position Pfx.

[0065] In this case, as illustrated in Figure 10, the connecting tab 63 is configured to extend in abutment against the second support 22 along a first direction of the second direction 200, that is to say here along the vertical direction Z, via the second segment 64b. Furthermore, advantageously, the connecting block 61, in particular the base 62, is configured to extend in abutment against the second support 22 along a second direction, opposite to the first direction, of the second direction 200 when the cross member 7 is arranged in at least one of the positions, as further explained below. The connecting block 61 of the secondary fixing device 6 is thus configured to extend at least partly on either side of the second support 22 when it is arranged in the vehicle 1.In other words, the secondary fixing device 6 is configured so that the second support 22 is interposed between at least a portion of the connecting tab 63 and the base 62 of the secondary fixing device 6.

[0066] The shape of the elbow 64 of the connecting tab 63 helps to define the inclination that the crosspiece 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, is able to present in at least one of the positions. In particular, the inclination of the second segment 64b of the connecting tab 63 relative to the second direction 200 defines the inclination that the crosspiece 7 and the cooling module 3 are able to present in the final operating position Pfx. Note that the inclination of the second segment 64b relative to the second direction 200 is evaluated when the crosspiece 7 and the secondary fixing device 6 are arranged in the initial position Pix.

[0067] In the example illustrated in Figures 3, 4, 9 and 10, positive values ​​represent the angles of inclination a_fx of the cross member 7 allowing the cooling module 3 and the cross member 7 to tilt towards the rear of the vehicle 1, towards the final operating position Pfx. The second direction 200, here parallel to the vertical direction Z, corresponds to a zero value of inclination of the cross member 7, for example observed when the arrangement is in the initial position Pix.

[0068] Conversely, negative values ​​represent the angles of inclination a_ix of the cross member 7, which optionally allow the cooling module 3 and the cross member 7 to tilt towards the front of the vehicle 1, opposite the final operating position Pfx, for example into an intermediate position Pintx. Here, the term "intermediate position" means a position implemented temporarily during the assembly of the arrangement 2 in the vehicle 1, aimed at preventing the assembly formed by the cross member 7 and the cooling module 3 from tilting accidentally towards the final operating position Pfx, inclined.

[0069] In particular, the angled connecting tab 63, in particular the second segment 64b, is shaped and oriented so as to allow a positive inclination of the crossmember 7 and / or the cooling module 3 relative to the second direction 200, for example within an interval of [15°; 50°], i.e. a tilting of 15 to 50° of inclination relative to the second direction 200 towards the rear of the vehicle 1, here represented by a half-line of final extension A2 in FIG. 4. Such an inclination corresponds in particular to the inclination a_fx of the crossmember 7 and / or the cooling module 3 in the final operating position Pfx of the cooling module 3. In order to allow such an inclination a_fx, the angled connecting tab 63 thus extends at least partly along a final extension axis Afx inclined relative to the second direction 200.Such an axis, representative of the direction of extension of the second segment 64b when the crosspiece 7 is in the initial position Pix, extends parallel, or substantially parallel, to the final extension half-line A2 of the crosspiece 7 and / or of the cooling module 3 representative of the desired final position Pfx. In other words, an inclination of the final extension axis Afx of at least a portion of the connecting tab 63, in particular of the second segment 64b, observed in the initial position Pix of the crosspiece 7 is equal or substantially equal to the inclination of the crosspiece 7 and / or of the cooling module 3 in the desired final operating position Pfx.

[0070] Optionally but preferably, the bent connecting lug 63, in particular the first segment 64a, is shaped and oriented so as to allow a negative inclination a_ix of the crossmember 7 and of the cooling module 3 relative to the second direction 200 within an interval of [-5°; -15°], that is to say a tilting of 5 to 15° of inclination relative to the second direction 200 towards the front of the vehicle 1, in a direction opposite to a tilting direction of the final operating position Pfx of the cooling module 3. Such an inclination a_ix is ​​here represented by a half-line of intermediate extension A1 and corresponds in particular to the inclination of the crossmember 7 and / or of the cooling module 3 in the intermediate position Pintx of the cooling module 3.

[0071] In order to allow such an inclination, the angled connecting tab 63 extends, for example, at least partly along an intermediate extension axis inclined relative to the second direction 200 when the crosspiece 7 and the secondary fixing device 6 are arranged in the initial position Pix.

[0072] Also, in the example illustrated in Figures 9 and 10, the connecting tab 63 is able to extend in abutment against the second support 22, in particular an edge of the orifice 22c, along at least one direction of the third direction 300 in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece 7. Optionally but preferably, the connecting block 61 comprises at least one contact portion 65 configured to extend in abutment against the first surface 22a of the second support 22 in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece 7 in combination with the cooperation of the connecting tab 63 with the second support. In this case, the at least one contact portion 65 is included in the base 62 of the connecting block 61. In particular, the at least one contact portion 65 is inclined relative to the second direction 200 when the secondary fixing device 6 is arranged in the initial position Pix.Also, the at least one contact portion 65 is configured to be arranged in contact with the first surface 22a of the second support 22 when the crosspiece 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, is arranged in a position such that the bent connecting tab 63 extends in contact with the second surface 22b of the second support 22. Such a position is in particular the final operating position Pfx.

[0073] According to an exemplary embodiment, the connecting block 61 comprises a first contact portion 65a configured to extend in support of the second support 22 when the secondary fixing device 6 is arranged in the final operating position Pfx as illustrated in FIG. 10. In order to ensure simultaneous cooperation of the connecting tab 63 and the first contact portion 65a with the second support 22, said portion is in particular inclined relative to the second direction 200. An inclination |3_fx of the first contact portion 65a is here evaluated when the crosspiece 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, is arranged in a nominal or initial position Pix.

[0074] In particular, the inclination |3_fx of the first contact portion 65a is equal, or substantially equal to the inclination of the second segment 64b of the connecting tab 63, so as to allow, as explained above, the simultaneous contact of the connecting tab 63 and the base 62 of the connecting block 61 with distinct opposite surfaces of the second support 22 when the crosspiece 7 is arranged in the final operating position Pfx, that is to say when the crosspiece 7 has an inclination a_fx relative to the second direction 200.

[0075] Additionally, optionally but preferably, the connecting block 61 comprises at least one second contact portion 65b configured to extend in support of the second support 22 when the secondary fixing device 6 is arranged in the intermediate position Pintx. Optionally, the second contact portion 65b is inclined relative to the second direction 200 and / or to the third direction 300 so as to allow the secondary fixing device 6 to tilt towards the intermediate position Pintx. Similar to what was described above, such an inclination is evaluated when the crosspiece 7 and the secondary fixing device 6 are arranged in the initial position Pix.The inclination of the second contact portion 65b is thus defined as a function of the desired inclination of the crosspiece 7 in the intermediate position Pintx and of the inclination of the first segment 64a of the connecting tab 63 so as to allow, as explained above, the simultaneous contact of the connecting tab 63 and of the base 62 of the connecting block 61 with the second support 22 when the crosspiece 7 is arranged in the intermediate position Pintx.

[0076] In particular, the first contact portion 65a and the second contact portion 65b are adjacent within the base 62 of the connecting block 61. Optionally but preferably, the first contact portion 65a and the second contact portion 65b are arranged on either side of the connecting tab 63 so as to allow the crosspiece 7 to tilt along opposite directions of the same direction, here for example a tilting backwards or forwards along the third direction 300, in order to reach the final operating position Pfx and the intermediate position Pintx respectively.

[0077] Optionally, the secondary fixing device 6 comprises at least one elastically deformable damping and / or compensation member 66. Said member is configured to compensate for any variability in the dimensions of the parts of the secondary fixing device 6 and / or to limit vibrations at the areas of cooperation between the second support 22 and the connecting block 61. According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one damping and / or compensation member 66 comprises graining and / or elastically deformable ribs configured to extend into contact with the second support 22 in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece 7. Alternatively, the damping and / or compensation member 66 is an added element, for example made of a plastic or rubber material, connected to the base 62 of the connecting block 61 and / or to the bent connecting tab 63.

[0078] In particular, the secondary fixing device 6 comprises a plurality of damping and / or compensation members 66 arranged on all or part of the surfaces capable of being arranged in contact with the second support 22. For example, the base 62 of the connecting block 61, in particular the at least one contact portion 65, and / or the bent connecting tab 63 comprises such a member.

[0079] Optionally, the connecting block 61 is shaped and arranged so as to form at least one recess 67 relative to the crosspiece 7. Such a recess 67 comprises at least one edge configured to extend into abutment with the second support along the first direction 100. Preferably, each secondary fixing device 6 comprises two recesses 67 arranged on either side of the base 62 of the connecting block 61 along the third direction 300 and capable of receiving the second support 22 in at least one of the tilting positions of the crosspiece 7.In this case, a first recess 67a is configured to receive the second support 22 when the crosspiece 7, and by extension the cooling module 3, is tilted and arranged in the final operating position Pfx while a second recess 67b is configured to receive the second support 22 when the crosspiece 7 is tilted in the opposite direction so as to be arranged in the intermediate position Pintx. Regardless of the embodiment implemented, the cooling module 3 is configured to be mounted on the movable crosspiece 7. In particular, in a conventional manner, the cooling module 3 comprises at least two studs 32 and the crosspiece 7 comprises at least two holes 74 capable of receiving said studs 32.

[0080] Also, the cooling module 3 comprises at least one secondary filtration member 33, arranged at each of the pads 32. Similar to what was described above with reference to the primary filtration member 54, the secondary filtration member 33 has the function of limiting, or even preventing, the propagation of solid-borne noise from the cooling module 3 to the crosspiece 7 and the second support 22. In particular, each secondary filtration member 33 is arranged at one of the pads 32 so as to surround it and prevent its contact with an edge of the hole 74 receiving it. For example, the secondary filtration member 33 is made of an elastically deformable material, such as plastic, in particular EPDM, or rubber. Optionally, said member is removable relative to the pad 32 carrying it.

[0081] The invention also relates to a method for mounting the fixing system 4 in a vehicle 1 according to the invention. It is understood that the preceding description, relating to the fixing system 4, to the arrangement 2 and to the vehicle 1 according to the invention, applies mutatis mutandis to the method according to the invention and vice versa.

[0082] The method comprises positioning the crosspiece 7 on the second support 22 by means of the at least one secondary fixing device 6. In particular, such positioning is carried out by means of two secondary fixing devices 6 arranged on either side of the crosspiece 7 along the first direction 100, in particular at least partly arranged at the lateral ends 72 of said crosspiece 7. In particular, the crosspiece 7 is arranged on the second support 22 by inserting the connecting tab 63 into the orifice 22c of the second support. The insertion is in particular carried out by at least one translational movement so as to arrange the crosspiece 7 and the secondary fixing device 6 in the initial position Pix, that is to say the position making it possible to arrange the cooling module 3 along the second direction 200 or substantially along the second direction 200, here parallel to the vertical direction Z.Alternatively, the insertion is carried out by at least one translational movement followed by a rotational or tilting movement of the secondary fixing device 6. The connecting tab 63 thus extends through the second support 22 and at least a portion of the second face 62b of the base 62 of the connecting block 61 bears against the first surface 22a of the second support 22. In particular, the second contact portion 65b partly bears against the second support 22. Optionally, a portion of the connecting tab 63, in particular the first segment 64a, extends against a contour of the orifice 22c so as to limit the movement of the secondary fixing device 6 along the third direction 300. A similar principle extends to a plurality of secondary fixing devices 6.

[0083] In parallel, that is to say beforehand, simultaneously or subsequently, the method comprises the positioning of the anchoring housing 52 of the at least one primary fixing device 5 on the first support 21, for example on one or more side members of the vehicle 1. Such a principle can be applied to a plurality of primary fixing devices 5.

[0084] Then, the method comprises the positioning of the cooling module 3 on the movable crosspiece 7. Conventionally, as described above, the cooling module 3 is positioned on the crosspiece 7 by inserting the studs 32, and optionally the secondary filtration members, into the holes 74 of the crosspiece 7. The crosspiece 7 being arranged in the initial position Pix, the cooling module 3 then extends along the second direction 200 or substantially along the second direction 200. In other words, in the initial, or nominal, position Pix of the crosspiece 7, the cooling module 3 is not inclined relative to the second direction 200.

[0085] Once the cooling module 3 is equipped on the mobile cross member 7, the method comprises tilting the assembly formed by the cooling module 3 and the mobile cross member 7. Such tilting can be carried out by manual intervention or by means of machines.

[0086] According to an exemplary embodiment, such a tilting is carried out directly so as to move the assembly formed by the cooling module 3 and the crosspiece 7 towards the final operating position Pfx in which the module has an inclined position relative to the second direction 200, and, here, to the vertical direction Z, as shown in FIG. 4 or 10.

[0087] In particular, the inclined position of the cooling module 3 and the fixing system 2 within the vehicle 1 corresponds to an offset between a positioning of the primary fixing device 5 and a positioning of the secondary fixing device 6 along the third direction 300, here parallel to the longitudinal direction X. In particular, in the inclined position, the cooling module 3 and the crossmember 7 have an inclination a_fx comprised in an interval of [15°; 50°], in particular an inclination of the order of 33° by tilting said module towards the rear of the vehicle 1.

[0088] When the secondary fixing device 6 is arranged in the final operating position Pfx, the connecting tab 63, particularly the second segment 64b, extends in contact with the second surface 22b of the second support 22. Also, in the example illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 10, the first contact portion 65a extends in contact with the first surface 22a of the second support 22. The secondary fixing device 6 thus exerts a force on the opposite surfaces of the second support 22, that is to say it is engaged with the latter. Thus, its movement relative to the second support 22 is limited along the second direction 200 and the third direction 300. Optionally again, the presence of the recess 67, in particular the first recess 67a, makes it possible to limit the movement of the crosspiece 7 along the first direction 100.

[0089] According to a preferred alternative embodiment, the tilting of the assembly formed by the cooling module 3 and the crosspiece 7 is carried out in two phases. A first phase comprises the tilting of the assembly formed by the cooling module 3 and the crosspiece 7 towards the intermediate assembly position Pintx, as described above and illustrated in Figures 3 and 9, then a second phase in which such an assembly is moved towards the final operating position Pfx similarly to what has been described previously.

[0090] As previously explained, the intermediate assembly position aims to prevent the assembly formed by the crosspiece 7 and the cooling module 3 from accidentally tilting towards its final operating position Pfx. Such a position is implemented temporarily so as to secure the cooling module 3 while additional tasks are carried out, in particular, such as fixing the anchor boxes or components of the technical front panel.

[0091] In the example illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, for the sake of clarity, a distinction is thus made between positive values ​​of the angles of inclination allowing the cooling module 3 and the cross member 7 to tilt towards the rear of the vehicle 1, towards the final operating position Pfx, and negative values ​​of the angles of inclination allowing the cooling module 3 and the cross member 7 to tilt towards the front of the vehicle 1, towards the intermediate assembly position and opposite the final operating position Pfx.

[0092] In particular, the intermediate assembly position makes it possible to position the cooling module 3 and the crosspiece 7 at a negative inclination relative to the second direction 200 within an interval of [-5°; - 15°], i.e. a tilting of 5 to 15° of inclination relative to the second direction 200 in a direction opposite to a tilting direction of the final operating position Pfx of the cooling module 3.

[0093] When the secondary fixing device 6 is arranged in the intermediate position Pintx, the connecting tab 63, particularly the first segment 64a, extends in support of the contour of the orifice 22c of the second support 22. Also, in the example illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 9, the second contact portion 65b extends in contact with the first surface 22a of the second support 22.

[0094] Optionally, the presence of the recess 67, in particular the second recess 67b, makes it possible to limit the movement of the crosspiece 7 along the first direction 100.

[0095] The method finally comprises fixing the cooling module 3 in the final operating position Pfx. As explained above, such fixing is carried out by cooperation between the at least one connecting member 51 and the at least one anchoring housing 52 of the primary fixing device 5. Such a principle is carried out for the plurality of primary fixing devices 5 when the fixing system 4 according to the invention comprises several of them.

[0096] The anchoring box 52 has the function of fixing the connecting member 51 and participates in stopping the tilting of the cooling module 3. The position and orientation of the anchoring box 52 is thus configured to allow the cooling module 3 and the crosspiece to be held at the desired final inclination. In particular, the anchoring box 52 cooperates with the connecting member 51 of the primary fixing device 5 considered by clipping, so as to allow simple and rapid assembly. When the anchoring box 52 comprises the return member 55, the latter advantageously participates in maintaining the cooling module 3 in the desired position.The present invention thus proposes a system for fixing a cooling module and a method for mounting said module in a vehicle advantageously allowing inclined fixing of the cooling module carried out more simply and quickly than in the prior art, in particular by limiting the use of conventional fixing means requiring, for example, multiple screwing operations. The invention is advantageously adapted to positioning according to various inclinations, various cooling modules and allows secure mounting of said module. The present invention cannot, however, be limited to the means and methods described and illustrated here and it also extends to any equivalent means or method and to any technically effective combination of such means insofar as they ultimately fulfill the functionalities described and illustrated in this document.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Fastening system (4) for the inclined fastening of a cooling module (3) in a vehicle (1) comprising at least one primary fastening device (5), at least one secondary fastening device (6) and a cross member (7) configured to be movable and removable extending along a first direction (100): - the at least one primary fixing device (5) comprising a connecting member (51), configured to be connected to the cooling module (3), and an anchoring housing (52) configured to be connected to a first support (21) of the vehicle (1), said anchoring housing (52) comprising a recess (53) configured to receive at least a portion of the connecting member (51); - the at least one secondary fixing device (6) comprising a connecting block (61) connected to the cross member (7) and comprising a bent connecting tab (63) configured to cooperate reversibly with a second support (22) of the vehicle (1) and to allow the movement of the at least one cross member (7) between at least two positions including an inclined position relative to a second direction (200), orthogonal to the first direction (100).

2. Fixing system (4) according to the preceding claim, in which: - the anchoring housing (52) of the primary fixing device (5) comprises a return member (55), in particular a leaf spring; and / or - the anchoring housing (52) and the connecting member (51) are of complementary shapes and / or are configured to cooperate by clipping.

3. Fixing system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the primary fixing device (5) comprises a fixing foot (56) attached and fixed to the anchoring housing (52) or forming a single-piece assembly with the anchoring housing (52).

4. Fixing system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting block (61) comprises at least one contact portion (65), configured to extend in support of a first surface (22a) of the second support (22) when the crosspiece (7) is in a position such that the bent connecting tab (63) extends in contact with the second support (22).

5. Fastening system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting block (61) and the angled connecting tab (63) are configured to extend in abutment against the second support (22) along at least two distinct directions orthogonal to each other and orthogonal to the first direction (100).

6. Fixing system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting block (61) and / or the bent connecting tab (63) comprises at least one damping and / or compensation member (66), comprising in particular graining and / or elastically deformable ribs, configured to extend in contact with the second support (22) in at least one of the positions of the crosspiece (7).

7. Fastening system (4) according to one of the preceding claims, in which the connecting block (61) forms at least one recess (67) relative to the crosspiece (7), said recess (67) comprising at least one edge configured to extend in abutment with the second support (22) along the first direction (100).

8. Arrangement (2) comprising at least one fixing system (4) according to one of the preceding claims and a cooling module (3): - the cooling module (3) comprising a frame to which the connecting member (51) of the primary fixing device (5) is connected; or - the cooling module (3) comprising a water box (31), configured to allow the circulation of a fluid, to which the connecting member (51) of the primary fixing device (5) is connected.

9. Vehicle (1) comprising an arrangement (2) according to the preceding claim, a first support (21), such as a side member, and a second support (22), such as a cradle, the cooling module (3) being connected to the movable cross member (7) and the assembly formed by the movable cross member (7) and the cooling module (3) being configured to be moved between at least one initial position (Pix), in which the cooling module (3) extends along the second direction (200) and a final operating position (Pfx), in which the cooling module (3) is inclined relative to the second direction (200).

10. Method for mounting a cooling module (3) in a vehicle (1) according to the preceding claim, comprising: - positioning the movable crosspiece (7) on the second support (22) by means of the at least one secondary fixing device (6) in the initial position (Pix); - the positioning of the cooling module (3) on the movable crosspiece (7); - the tilting of the assembly formed by the cooling module (3) and the movable crosspiece (7) towards at least one position distinct from the initial position (Pix); - fixing the cooling module (3) in an operating position by cooperation between the connecting member (51) and the anchoring housing (52) of the at least one primary fixing device (5).

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