Module of an assembly for exchanging heat with battery cells

Abstract

The present invention relates to a module of an assembly for exchanging heat with at least one battery cell, comprising at least: - a support structure for supporting at least one battery cell comprising at least one orifice forming a housing with a shape complementary to the peripheral edge of the at least one cell, - a heat-exchange panel (11) positioned against the support structure and comprising an interior volume for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid between at least one fluid inlet orifice and one fluid outlet orifice, characterized in that the heat-exchange panel is produced by at least two structures of substantially planar shape positioned facing each other and assembled together by their peripheral edges so that the sealing of the interior volume of the heat-exchange panel is achieved by a peripheral weld, welding the two structures together.

Description

Description Title of the invention: Module for a heat exchange assembly with battery cells

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of battery thermal regulation devices and more particularly to the field of modular heat transfer fluid distribution devices for the thermal regulation of battery cells.

[0002] The temperature control of batteries typically involves heat exchange plates positioned in contact with the surface of the batteries to be heated or cooled. Each of these heat exchange plates has a hollow structure within which a heat transfer fluid circulates. The contact of such a plate with the surface of a battery optimizes heat exchange between the two surfaces. The heat transfer fluid moving within a heat exchange plate allows for the continuous transfer of heat to or from the battery. This circulation of the heat transfer fluid thus ensures optimal heat exchange between the battery and the heat exchange plate, with a continuous supply or removal of heat to the battery.

[0003] Inside the heat exchange plates, the heat transfer fluid moves between two ports, an inlet and an outlet, generally located at the periphery of the plates. The heat transfer fluid is distributed among several parallel heat exchange plates positioned between and in contact with one or more coils to be cooled. This arrangement of coils with heat exchange plates can be achieved, in particular, by a modular construction combining, on the one hand, a heat exchange plate and, on the other hand, a frame structure with dimensions complementary to the heat exchange plate. This frame is assembled onto a surface and holds a coil or group of coils against the heat exchange plate.

[0004] A key requirement in this type of construction is the perfect sealing of the heat exchanger plates. Indeed, the presence of a heat transfer fluid leak at Proximity to batteries can lead not only to a degradation of their operating performance but also to damage to the motor powered by the energy supplied by those batteries. Furthermore, batteries intended for integration into such modular constructions generally rely on the use of rare earth elements and are prone to significant exothermic reactions upon contact with certain liquids, reinforcing the imperative of rigorous sealing of the heat exchange plates.

[0005] The present invention aims to overcome these drawbacks of the prior art by proposing a solution enabling optimized sealing of the elements involved in the circulation of heat transfer fluid, while taking advantage of the constraints imposed by the realization of a modular construction for maintaining the temperature of a group of batteries.

[0006] The invention thus relates to a module for a heat exchange system with at least one battery cell, comprising at least: - a support structure for at least one battery cell comprising at least one opening forming a housing with a shape complementary to the peripheral edge of the at least one cell, - a heat exchange panel positioned against the support structure and comprising an internal volume for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid between at least one inlet orifice and one outlet orifice of the fluid, characterized in that the heat exchange panel is made up of at least two substantially planar structures positioned opposite each other and assembled together by their peripheral edges so that the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel is achieved by a peripheral weld between the two structures.

[0007] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a module according to the invention, the internal volume of which, within a heat exchange panel, comprises a circulation circuit for a heat transfer fluid, characterized in that the method notably includes a manufacturing step for at least one heat exchange panel, which further comprises: - a positioning step of at least two substantially planar structures supported against each other, the two structures being joined together by their peripheral edges, - a step involving the positioning of formwork elements against the outer faces of these two structures, at least some of the formwork elements having a raised surface, - a hydroforming and / or air-forming stage by injecting a fluid between the two substantially flat structures so that these structures deform to conform to the respective surfaces of the formwork elements, - a stage of removing the formwork elements.

[0008] The invention further relates to a heat exchanger assembly with at least one battery cell characterized in that the assembly comprises at least two modules according to the invention, these modules being assembled so that the support structure of at least one of the modules is positioned between, on the one hand, a heat exchanger panel of its own module and, on the other hand, a heat exchanger panel of a second module.

[0009] The invention will be better understood from the following description, which relates to a preferred embodiment, given by way of non-limiting example, and explained with reference to the accompanying schematic drawings, in which: [Fig. 1] represents a schematic illustration of an example of assembling two structures to create a heat exchange panel, [Fig. 2] represents a schematic illustration of an example of the assembly of two heat exchange panels in the construction of a module according to the invention, [Fig. 3] shows schematic illustrations of an example of the construction of a heat exchange panel for a module according to the invention, shown in a three-quarter view, a section view, and a detail at a peripheral junction of a heat exchange panel. [Fig. 4] shows schematic illustrations of two examples of heat exchange panel construction for the construction of modules according to the invention, [Fig. 5] shows schematic illustrations of an example of the construction of portions of piping around the periphery of a heat exchange panel for a module according to the invention before forming the heat exchange panel, according to a sectional view in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the heat exchange panel, according to a side view and according to a sectional view in a plane parallel to the plane of the heat exchange panel, [Fig. 6] shows schematic illustrations of an example of a heat exchange panel for a module according to the invention in a three-quarter view, [Fig. 7] shows schematic illustrations of example modules for a heat exchange assembly according to the invention in a three-quarter view and in section views in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the heat exchange panel, [Fig. 8] shows schematic illustrations of an example of the assembly of two heat exchange panels in a cross-sectional view in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the heat exchange panels and in detail at a peripheral junction of these heat exchange panels, [Fig. 9] shows a schematic illustration of an example of the assembly of two heat exchange panels at the inlet ports of the heat exchange panels in a cross-sectional view in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the heat exchange panels, [Fig. 10] represents a schematic illustration of another example of assembly of two heat exchange panels at the inlet ports of the heat exchange panels according to a section view in a plane perpendicular to the plane of the heat exchange panels.

[0010] The present invention relates to a module 1 for a heat exchange assembly of at least one battery cell, comprising at least: - a support structure 12 for at least one battery cell 1 comprising at least one opening forming a housing 121 of complementary shape to the peripheral edge of the at least one cell, - a heat exchange panel 1 1 positioned against the support structure 12 and comprising an internal volume for the circulation of a fluid heat transfer fluid between at least one inlet orifice 15 and an outlet orifice 16 of the fluid, characterized in that the heat exchange panel 11 is made up of at least two substantially planar structures 111, 112 positioned opposite each other and joined together by their peripheral edges so that the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11 is achieved by a peripheral weld between the two structures 111, 112.

[0011] Within the framework of module 1 according to the invention, at least one heat exchange panel 11, which has a substantially planar arrangement, is associated with a support structure 12 for one or more battery cells. Preferably, the heat exchange panel 11 and the support structure 12 have substantially similar or even identical dimensions and shapes so as to allow their assembly to form a module 1. The assembly of the heat exchange panel 11 with the support structure 12 in a module 1 is carried out such that one of the surfaces of the heat exchange panel 11 is positioned against a surface of the support structure 12, in particular against at least one housing opening 121 of the support structure 12 intended to receive at least one battery cell, so as to close this housing opening 121.For example, the support structure 12 has an arrangement with a thickness at least substantially similar, or even identical, to the thickness of a battery cell intended to be housed therein. The housing 121 in the support structure 12 for receiving a battery cell is arranged so that its opening is positioned opposite a surface of the heat exchange panel 11, such that at least one surface of the battery cell is in contact with a surface of the heat exchange panel 11. This arrangement thus allows for optimized heat exchange between the battery cell and the heat exchange panel 11.

[0012] It should be noted that module 1 of the invention combines at least one heat exchange panel 1 with a support structure 12 for a battery cell. The juxtaposition of several modules 1 allows for a construction in which heat exchange panels 1 are successively positioned alternately with support structures 12 for cells. Also, according to another, more specific construction example, the structure Support 12 has a housing 121 for a battery cell arranged through the thickness of this support structure 12. The support structure 12 thus frames the housing 121 and the battery cell positioned therein. Each of the openings of the housing 121 and of the cell is then opposite a surface of a respective heat exchange panel 11 positioned against the support structure 12, blocking the openings of the housing 121. According to this example, the battery cell is able to perform heat exchanges at each of the two orifices positioned on either side of the housing 121 with respectively, on the one hand, the heat exchange panel 1 1 of the module 1 in which the battery cell is housed and, on the other hand, the heat exchange panel 1 1 of the module 1 juxtaposed to the module 1 in which the battery cell is housed.

[0013] Furthermore, within the framework of module 1 according to the invention, the particular arrangement of the heat exchange panel 11, consisting of two substantially flat structures 111, 112 joined together at their peripheral edges, allows for sealing the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11 from the outside while also simplifying its construction. Preferably, the assembly of the two structures 111, 112 is achieved by making at least one weld at the periphery of these flat structures 111, 112. Ideally, this assembly involves a double line of welds on the periphery of the two flat structures 111, 112.As an example of construction, the two substantially planar structures 111 and 112 of the heat exchange panel 11 are made of an aluminum-type material or a material with similar rigidity, strength, and thermal conductivity properties. Preferably, the two substantially planar structures 111 and 112 have substantially identical dimensions for the construction of a heat exchange panel 11, particularly for the portion intended to form the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. However, these two structures 111 and 112 may have differences in shape at portions intended for the fluid inlet 15 and outlet 16 ports.

[0014] According to an example relating to a variant of the construction of module 1 of the invention, at least one inlet 15 and / or outlet 16 of the fluid is carried by a first of the two substantially planar structures 111, 112 of the heat exchange panel 11, the second of the two structures 111, 112 having a solid surface positioned opposite the inlet 15 and / or outlet 16. The inlet 15 or outlet 16 of the fluid in the heat exchange panel 11 is thus carried by only one of the two structures 111, 112 of the panel 11. As an example of construction, these two inlet 15 and outlet 16 of the fluid are respectively made by an orifice positioned at the level of the same surface of a first of the two structures 1 1 1 , 1 12 of the heat exchange panel 1 1 , the surface opposite the second of the two structures 1 11 , 1 12 of the heat exchange panel 1 1 having a solid arrangement.According to this example, the two inlet orifices 15 and outlet orifices 16 are positioned at the level of the same surface of the heat exchange panel 1 1. As an example of a potentially complementary construction, the inlet orifices 15 and / or outlet 16 of the fluid are positioned at the level of a portion of the surface of one of the two structures 11 1 , 1 12 of the heat exchange panel 1 1 which forms a peripheral protrusion in relation to the rest of the surface of the heat exchange panel 1 1.

[0015] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention that can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11 is completed by a sealing element 113 that encloses the assembled peripheral edges of the two structures 111, 112 of the heat exchange panel 11. This sealing element 113 has the form of a frame positioned on at least a portion and / or a length of the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11. Preferably, this sealing element 113 surrounds and / or frames the bulk of the heat exchange panel 11 while providing free portions to allow the positioning of at least one inlet port 15 and one outlet port 16 of the fluid with the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. 1.This sealing element 1 13 is likely to take the form of a. elastic joint positioned along the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 1 1 so as to extend beyond the peripheral edge on at least part of each of the faces of the heat exchange panel 1 1 formed by the two structures 1 1 1 , 1 12. In a plane in section perpendicular to the average plane of the heat exchange panel 1 1 , this sealing element 1 13 is thus positioned as a rider on the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11 .

[0016] According to an example relating to another construction variant of module 1 of the invention, which can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11 is completed by a peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 that envelops the assembled peripheral edges of the two structures 111, 112 of the heat exchange panel 11. By way of embodiment, this thermoplastic structure 114 forms a frame positioned on at least a part and / or a length of the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11. Preferably, this thermoplastic structure 114 surrounds and / or frames the bulk of the heat exchange panel 11.Similarly, and preferably, this thermoplastic structure 114 creates free portions at the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11 so as to allow the positioning of at least one inlet 15 and / or one outlet 16 of the fluid with the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. Structurally, this thermoplastic structure 114 extends beyond the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11 onto the faces of the heat exchange panel 11. Thus, in a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the average plane of the heat exchange panel 11, the thermoplastic structure 114 has a rider-like arrangement positioned over the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11.As an example of construction, this thermoplastic structure 1 14 is positioned and installed by means of an overmolding operation on at least part of the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 1 1. 11 It should be noted that when the module 1 of the invention also includes a sealing element 113 positioned at the periphery of the heat exchange panel 1 1, the thermoplastic structure. 114 is positioned over this sealing element 1 13 by wrapping it to wedge it against the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11.

[0017] According to an example relating to a specific construction variant of module 1 of the invention as detailed in the previously detailed construction variant, the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 incorporates piping portions 115, 116 that communicate respectively with at least one inlet port 15 and at least one outlet port 16 of the fluid in the heat exchange panel 11. These piping portions 115, 116 respectively incorporate connection interfaces with piping portions for supplying heat transfer fluid. This integration can be achieved by joint overmolding of the piping portions 115, 116 with the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114. Preferably, these piping portions 115, 116 relate to axial tubular portions oriented substantially perpendicular to the mean plane of the heat exchange panel 11.These tubular sections are thus able to operate an easy connection with the complementary interface of a section of pipe carried, for example, by a second juxtaposed module 1.

[0018] According to an example relating to a construction variant that can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, the pipe sections 115, 116 are associated with a respective drainage channel positioned to allow fluid circulation parallel to the circulation in the pipe sections 115, 116. Preferably, this drainage channel is integrated into the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 and communicates with the associated pipe section 115, 116 via one or more conduits also integrated into the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114. This integration can be achieved by jointly overmolding the drainage channel with the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114, or even with one or more of the associated pipe sections 115, 116.Preferably, the positioning and fixing of these pipe sections 1 15, 116 against an inlet 15 or an outlet 16 of the heat exchange panel 11 are achieved by means of a double watertight fixing. This watertight fixing may be achieved by a mechanical fastening or by chemical assembly such as a. chemical adhesion of the pipe section 115, 116 against a microstructured and / or chemically altered layer of the face of the heat exchange panel 11 that surrounds the inlet orifice 15 or the associated outlet orifice 16. As an example, a surface microstructuring process is described in document US1 1745295. Similarly, a technology for assembling a thermoplastic duct onto a metal wall is detailed in document FR2406797. As an alternative or complement to chemical bonding, a watertight seal can be achieved by a physical assembly such as a weld, which also surrounds the periphery of the inlet orifice. 15 or outlet 16. A first watertight line 1171, with a smaller perimeter, connects, on the one hand, the inlet 15 or outlet 16 and, on the other hand, the outlet of the associated pipe section 115, 116. A second watertight line 1172, with a larger perimeter, connects, on the one hand, the inlet 15 or outlet 16 and, on the other hand, both the outlet of the associated pipe section 115, 116 and the outlet of the drainage channel. In this example of a connection, the second watertight line 1172 thus surrounds the first watertight line 1171 and the outlet of the drainage channel. Also, in the event of a leak at the first sealed line 1 171 of this junction, the heat transfer fluid is able to be retained by the second sealed line 1 172 and evacuated at the level of the drainage channel.

[0019] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention that can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, the heat exchange panel 11 has a substantially rectangular arrangement with a fluid inlet 15 and an outlet 16 positioned at opposite corners of the heat exchange panel 11. When the inlet 15 and outlet 16 The two orifices 15 and 16 of the fluid are arranged on the same face of the heat exchange panel 11. These two orifices are positioned symmetrically with respect to the center of the rectangular surface of the heat exchange panel 11, so that the heat exchange panel 11 can be positioned in two different orientations, interchanging the fluid orifices 15 and 16. The "outlet" and "inlet" characterization of these fluid orifices 15 and 16 is found... then defined by the direction of movement of the fluid relative to the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 1 1.

[0020] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention, forming an alternative to the previously detailed construction variant, the heat exchange panel 11 has a substantially rectangular arrangement with a fluid inlet 15 and an outlet 16 positioned at corners located at the ends of the same edge of the heat exchange panel 11. This construction thus allows the heat transfer fluid circulation pipes to be positioned, on the one hand, for supply and, on the other hand, for discharge, on the same side of the heat exchange panel 11 and therefore, by extension, on the same side of module 1 or even of the entire module 1 assembly. This arrangement thus makes it possible to address space constraints for the positioning of pipes dedicated to circulating heat transfer fluid for maintaining battery cells at temperature.

[0021] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention forming another alternative to the previously detailed construction variant, the heat exchange panel 11 has a substantially rectangular arrangement with an inlet orifice 15 and an outlet orifice 16 of the fluid positioned at a portion of the same edge of the heat exchange panel 11, for example at the center of an edge of the heat exchange panel 11. As with the previous construction variant of module 1, this construction also allows for the positioning of pipes for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid at the same side of the heat exchange panel 11 and therefore, by extension, on the same side of module 1 or even of the entire module 1 assembly.

[0022] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention that can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, at portions of the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11 lacking a fluid inlet 15 or outlet 16, the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 carries piping portions 171, 172 without communication with the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. These piping portions 171, 172 correspond to piping elements allowing the circulation of a fluid completely independently of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. The fluid present in these piping portions 171, 172 is therefore able to circulate without crossing the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. Thus, the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 which participates in the creation of a frame which at least partially surrounds the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11 forms, in module 1 of the invention, a support structure for these piping portions 171, 172 without communication with the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11. These pipe sections 171, 172 are thus able to circulate a fluid between two elements positioned on either side of the heat exchange panel 11, or even of the module 1, without this fluid passing through the internal volume of the heat exchange panel 11.The peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 thus allows for the positioning and spatial retention of these pipe sections 171, 172. Furthermore, the thermoplastic structure 114 facilitates the connection of these different pipe sections 171, 172 with complementary pipe connection interfaces. In one construction example, the thermoplastic structure 114 has a cantilevered arrangement positioned at one of its peripheral edges, the end of which carries or integrates at least one of these pipe sections 171, 172. This integration can be achieved by co-molding the thermoplastic structure 114 with at least one of these pipe sections 171, 172.

[0023] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention capable of being combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants incorporating a peripheral thermoplastic structure 114, the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 comprises at least one interface for cooperation with the periphery of an edge of a support structure 12 of at least one battery cell. According to this construction example, the thermoplastic structure 114 surrounding the peripheral edge of a heat exchange panel 11 is of complementary shape and dimensions to those of the support structure 12 of at least one battery cell with which the thermoplastic structure 114 is intended to be juxtaposed, thus enabling the The thermoplastic structure 114 is positioned against at least one battery cell to maintain its temperature. At one of its edges and / or one of its surfaces, the thermoplastic structure 114 includes at least one interface for cooperation with a complementary interface carried by an edge and / or a surface of the battery cell support structure 12. This cooperation interface is configured to limit or even prevent the movement, in particular the sliding, of the thermoplastic structure 114 relative to the battery cell support structure 12. Under these conditions, the positioning and maintenance of the battery cell against a surface of the heat exchange panel 11 are ensured within a module 1 according to the invention.As an example of construction, the complementarity between the cooperation interfaces is achieved through complementary shapes and / or textures between the thermoplastic structure 114 and the battery cell support structure 12. According to one example of complementary construction, the thermoplastic structure 114, which surrounds at least part of the periphery of a heat exchange panel 11, also includes one or more cooperation interfaces arranged to interact with one or more peripheral surfaces of the battery cell support structure 12. This interaction can be achieved by clipping and / or pinching the support structure 12 between two portions of the thermoplastic structure 114 positioned opposite each other.

[0024] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention capable of being combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants incorporating a peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 and forming an alternative to the previous construction variant, the peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 is formed by at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the support structure 12. According to this construction variant, the support structure 12 has a frame-shaped structure with dimensions substantially similar, or even identical, to those of the heat exchange panel 11. In a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the mean plane of the heat exchange panel 11, the support structure 12 comprises at least two portions of its peripheral edge positioned opposite each other and arranged to define a recess between them allowing the positioning of the heat exchange panel 11. The respective surfaces opposite at least two portions of the peripheral edge of the support structure 12 are respectively arranged to be of complementary shape to the corresponding respective edges of the heat exchange panel 11 so as to be positioned in support, directly or indirectly, against the corresponding surfaces on the periphery of the heat exchange panel 11.

[0025] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention capable of being combined with one or the other of the previously detailed construction variants, at least one inlet 15 and / or outlet 16 of the fluid is carried by a first of the two substantially flat structures 111, 112 of the heat exchange panel 11, the second of the two structures 111, 112 having a solid surface positioned opposite the inlet 15 and / or outlet 16.

[0026] According to an example relating to a construction variant of module 1 of the invention that can be combined with either of the previously detailed construction variants, module 1 also includes a second heat exchange panel 21 positioned against the first heat exchange panel 11. Preferably, the two heat exchange panels 11 and 21 have substantially similar shapes and dimensions to facilitate their assembly against each other in the implementation of module 1 of the invention. Positioning two heat exchange panels 11 and 21 against each other allows for efficient heat exchange on the two faces opposite the faces facing each other of the two heat exchange panels 11 and 21.Furthermore, the juxtaposition of these two heat exchange panels 11, 21 allows for heat exchange, firstly, with at least one battery cell housed in the support structure 12 of module 1 and, secondly, with at least one battery cell housed in the support structure of the juxtaposed module. According to a preferred arrangement, the juxtaposition of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21 also incorporates an insulating material in the volume 31 that separates the two panels 11, 21. This insulating material thus limits, or even prevents, any unwanted heat exchange between the circulating heat transfer fluids. respective in each of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21. In addition, to limit any risk of leakage, the volume 31 which separates the two panels 11, 21 is partitioned by at least one annular weld at the periphery of the surfaces opposite these two panels 11, 21 so that the volume 31 separating these two panels 11, 21 is sealed.

[0027] It should be noted that, preferably, each of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21 is respectively made up of a pair of structures 111, 112 of substantially flat shape positioned opposite each other and assembled together, for example by welding on their peripheries. Each of these two heat exchange panels 11, 21 incorporates a respective sealing element 113 positioned on the peripheral edge of this assembly of a pair of structures 111, 112. Similarly, each of these two heat exchange panels 11, 21 is capable of incorporating a respective peripheral thermoplastic structure 114 arranged to maintain the sealing element 113 in compression around the respective peripheral edges of the two structures 111, 112 of the heat exchange panel 11.The respective thermoplastic structures 114 of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 are then arranged to present interfaces dedicated to the cooperation of heat exchange panels 11, 21 within the framework of their assembly, so that these panels 11, 21 remain held and assembled together. Preferably, the heat exchange panels 11, 21 share a common thermoplastic structure 114 which participates in the pinching and compression of the respective sealing elements 113 positioned at the peripheral edges of each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21.In a cross-sectional plane perpendicular to the mean plane of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 juxtaposed in parallel planes, this thermoplastic structure 114 is thus arranged to present a double groove in the respective edges which are positioned on either side of the peripheral edges of each of the faces of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21. In addition, the thermoplastic structure 114 also incorporates a drainage channel, for example oriented along an axis substantially perpendicular to the mean plane of the panels. of heat exchangers 11, 21. The volume 31 separating the two heat exchanger panels 11, 21 is then connected to a conduit that communicates with this drainage channel. Therefore, in the event of a leak in either of the heat exchanger panels 11, 21, causing a flow of heat transfer fluid to occur at the level of the volume 31 separating the two heat exchanger panels 11, 21, this fluid can be discharged into the drainage channel. As an example of a complementary construction, it should be noted that this drainage channel may be connected to one or both of the drainage channels associated with the pipe sections 115, 116 attached to an inlet 15 or outlet 16 of the heat exchanger panels 11, 21.

[0028] According to an example relating to a specific construction variant of module 1 of the invention, as detailed in the previously described construction variant, the fluid inlet 15 and outlet 16 of each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 are positioned opposite each other. Thus, in this construction variant, the respective inlet 15 and outlet 16 of these heat exchange panels 11, 21 are arranged to be positioned close to each other, or even against each other and / or opposite each other. The juxtaposition of these two heat exchange panels 11, 21 thus allows for close positioning, or even a connection, of the respective inlet 15 of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21.This arrangement facilitates the distribution of heat transfer fluid in each of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21 by joint supply at a junction and / or connection point of the respective inlet ports 15 of these heat exchange panels 11, 21. A similar arrangement is also likely to be operated at the outlet ports 16 of the two heat exchange panels 11, 21.

[0029] According to an example relating to a specific construction variant of module 1 of the invention as detailed in the previously detailed construction variant, the fluid inlet 15 and outlet 16 ports are made so that, on the one hand, a first of the pairs of substantially planar structures 111, 112 of each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 has an orifice 15, 16 associated with a portion of piping 1 15, 1 16 and, on the other hand, a second pair of structures 11 1 , 1 12 of substantially planar shape has an orifice 18 positioned opposite the corresponding orifice 18 carried by the other of the heat exchange panels 11 , 21 . According to this construction variant, on the one hand, the inlet orifices 15 and, on the other hand, the outlet orifices 16 of the respective fluid of the heat exchange panels 1 1 , 21 are positioned at identical levels, symmetrically on either side of the average plane formed by the junction of the two juxtaposed and assembled heat exchange panels 11 , 21 . The pipe sections 1 15, 1 16 respectively positioned at each of these orifices 15, 16 are thus positioned at the level of respective opposite faces of the heat exchange panels 11, 21.The respective faces of the heat exchange panels 11, 21, which face each other, each have their own orifice 18 positioned opposite the corresponding orifice 18 of the adjacent heat exchange panel 11, 21. These two orifices 18 are then aligned with the respective inlet 15 and / or outlet 16 of the adjacent heat exchange panels 11, 21, which are assembled along a common axis perpendicular to the mean plane of each of the adjacent heat exchange panels 11, 21 and which passes through these heat exchange panels 11, 21.This arrangement allows, on the one hand, the circulation of the heat transfer fluid along a section of pipe arranged to pass through the internal volumes of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 with which the pipe section communicates, and, on the other hand, the distribution or supply of heat transfer fluid to each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21. The respective internal volumes of the two juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 are thus connected to be supplied with heat transfer fluid at a substantially similar supply point. An arrangement with an identical construction is also implemented at the outlet ports 16, allowing the heat transfer fluid that has passed through the two juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 to be discharged at a substantially similar discharge point.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method for manufacturing a module 1 according to the invention, the internal volume of which is a heat exchange panel 1. includes a heat transfer fluid circulation circuit, characterized in that the process notably includes a manufacturing step of at least one heat exchange panel 1 1 which further comprises: - a positioning step of at least two structures 111, 112 of substantially planar shape supported against each other, the two structures 111, 112 being joined together by their peripheral edges, - a step of positioning formwork elements against the outer faces of these two structures 1 1 1 , 112, at least part of the formwork elements having a relief, - a hydroforming and / or aeroforming step by injecting a fluid between the two structures 1 1 1 , 1 12 of substantially flat shape so that these structures deform to conform to the respective surfaces of the formwork elements, - a stage of removing the formwork elements. It should be noted that the reliefs carried by the internal surfaces of the different formwork elements relate to negative reliefs of the surfaces 1 1 1 , 1 12 of the thermal exchange panel 1 1 intended to be hydroformed or aeroformed.

[0031] According to an example relating to a variant implementation of the manufacturing process according to the invention, the process comprises: - a step of positioning formwork elements around the junction of the structures 1 1 1 , 1 12 assembled in a substantially flat shape, - an overmolding step of at least one thermoplastic structure 1 14 which envelops the junction of the structures 1 1 1 , 1 12 of substantially planar shape, - a stage of removing the formwork elements. It should be noted that these various additional steps of the process of the invention are likely to occur before, jointly or after the formwork and / or shaping steps of the two structures 1 11 , 1 12 of the heat exchange panel 1 1 , provided that the two structures 1 1 1 , 1 12 of the heat exchange panel 1 1 are joined together by their peripheral edges, for example by welding.

[0032] According to an example relating to a specific variant of the manufacturing process implementation variant detailed previously, the elements of Formwork elements that participate in the overmolding of a thermoplastic structure 114 also participate in the hydroforming and / or airforming operation. In this variant of the process of the invention, the formwork elements that participate in the forming of the heat exchange panel 11 also play a role in the overmolding step of at least one thermoplastic structure 114 onto at least a portion of the periphery of the heat exchange panel 11. The forming and overmolding operations, on the one hand, concerning different portions of the heat exchange panel 11, and different portions of the formwork elements specifically dedicated to these respective operations, are thus able to be carried out to implement these steps either simultaneously or successively during the same formwork operation.

[0033] According to an example relating to a variant of the manufacturing process forming an alternative to the integration of a thermoplastic structure 1 14 into the module 1 by an overmolding operation, the thermoplastic structure 1 14 is produced prior to its positioning on the periphery of the heat exchange panel 11. The thermoplastic structure 1 14 can thus be produced as an assembly of one or more parts produced independently and then joined together during the installation of this thermoplastic structure 1 14 on the periphery of the heat exchange panel 11. As a construction example, each of the parts intended for the production of the thermoplastic structure 1 14 can be produced by a molding operation.The assembly of the parts that make up the thermoplastic structure 114 may involve additional clip interfaces carried by each of the parts and / or by the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 11. This assembly may also involve joining or clamping parts such as screws.

[0034] According to an example relating to a variant implementation of the specific manufacturing process of the variant detailed previously, when the heat exchange panel 11 is associated with a sealing element 113 positioned on its peripheral edge, the thermoplastic structure 114 is positioned on the periphery of the heat exchange panel 11 so as to be arranged in a rider-like fashion over this sealing element 1 13 so as to envelop the sealing element 1 13 to wedge it against the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel 1 1.

[0035] According to an example relating to a variant of the manufacturing process that can be combined with either of the variants detailed previously, prior to the formwork element positioning step, the process includes a step of positioning four substantially planar structures 111, 112 leaning against each other. These four structures 111, 112 are joined together in pairs by their peripheral edges to create two heat exchange panels 11, 21 leaning against each other. Preferably, the forming operation of each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 is carried out prior to the assembly of these heat exchange panels 11, 21 together.As an example of implementation, the assembly of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 involves at least one welding and / or bonding operation of the surfaces of the two panels 11, 21 at their opposite faces. This assembly is likely to form a volume 31 separating the two panels 11, 21. When at least part of these two panels 11, 21 is assembled and fixed so that the volume 31 separating the two panels 11, 21 defines a housing, insulating material is then injected into this separating volume 31.

[0036] According to an example relating to a specific variant of the previously detailed manufacturing process, the process includes, at the level of at least one fluid inlet 15 and / or outlet 16 of the heat exchange panels 11, 21, at least one perforation step in the substantially planar structure of each heat exchange panel 11, 21 positioned opposite and / or against that of the corresponding heat exchange panel 11, 21. This perforation step is carried out when the respective fluid inlet 15 and outlet 16 of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 are positioned at identical and symmetrical levels on either side of the mean plane formed by the junction of the two juxtaposed and assembled heat exchange panels 11, 21. This perforation allows for the creation of 18 corresponding holes. supported by each of the heat exchange panels 11, 21 and positioned opposite each other. These two orifices 18 thus formed by perforation are then aligned with the respective inlet 15 and / or outlet 16 carried by the juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 and assembled along a common axis perpendicular to the average plane of each of the juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 and which passes through these heat exchange panels 11, 21. The respective internal volumes of the two juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 are then in communication to be supplied with heat transfer fluid at a substantially similar supply point.An arrangement with an identical construction is also made at the outlet ports 16, allowing the heat transfer fluid that has passed through the two juxtaposed heat exchange panels 11, 21 to be evacuated at a substantially similar discharge point. According to a particular arrangement of these perforated ports 18, the perimeter of the ports 18 is associated with a sealing gasket 181 and a means 182 for fixing it, such as riveting.

[0037] According to an example relating to an alternative implementation of the manufacturing process that can be combined with either of the previously detailed alternatives, the process also includes a step of assembling at least one heat exchange panel 11, 21 to a support structure 12 for at least one battery cell. This assembly may involve cooperation between complementary interfaces carried, on the one hand, by an edge and / or a surface of the support structure 12 of a battery cell 2 and, on the other hand, the thermoplastic structure 114 of at least one heat exchange panel 11, 21. This assembly is thus arranged to limit or even prevent the displacement, in particular the sliding, of the thermoplastic structure 114 relative to the support structure 12 for battery cell 2.

[0038] The invention further relates to a heat exchanger assembly with at least one battery cell 2 characterized in that the assembly comprises at least two modules 1 according to the invention, these modules 1 being assembled so that the support structure 12 of at least one of the modules 1 is positioned between, on the one hand, a heat exchange panel 11 of its own module 1 and, on the other hand, a heat exchange panel 11 of a second module 1.

[0039] Of course, the invention is not limited to the embodiments described and shown in the accompanying drawings. Modifications remain possible, particularly with regard to the composition of the various elements or by substitution of technical equivalents, without departing from the scope of protection of the invention.

Claims

Demands

1. Module (1) for a heat exchanger assembly with at least one battery cell, comprising at least: - a support structure (12) for at least one battery cell 1 comprising at least one opening forming a housing (121) of complementary shape to the peripheral edge of the at least one cell, - a heat exchange panel (11) positioned against the support structure (12) and comprising an internal volume for the circulation of a heat transfer fluid between at least one inlet orifice (15) and an outlet orifice (16) of the fluid, characterized in that the heat exchange panel (11) is made up of at least two structures (111, 112) of substantially planar shape positioned opposite each other and assembled together by their peripheral edges so that the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel (11) is achieved by a peripheral weld between the two structures (111, 112).

2. Module (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel (11) is completed by a sealing element (113) which envelops the assembled peripheral edges of the two structures (111, 112) of the heat exchange panel (11). [Claims] Module (1) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the sealing of the internal volume of the heat exchange panel (11) is completed by a peripheral thermoplastic structure (114) which envelops the assembled peripheral edges of the two structures (111, 112) of the heat exchange panel (11).

4. Module (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the peripheral thermoplastic structure (114) incorporates piping portions (115, 116) which communicate respectively with at least one inlet port (15) and at least one outlet port (16) of the fluid from the heat exchange panel (11), these piping portions (115, 116) incorporating respectively connection interfaces with sections of piping for supplying heat transfer fluid. [Claims] Module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the heat exchange panel (11) has a substantially rectangular arrangement with an inlet orifice (15) and an outlet orifice (16) of the fluid positioned at opposite corners of the heat exchange panel (11).

6. Module (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that, at the level of portions of the peripheral edge of the heat exchange panel (11) without an inlet (15) or outlet (16) of the fluid, the peripheral thermoplastic structure (114) carries portions of piping (171, 172) without communication with the internal volume of the heat exchange panel (11).

7. Module (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the peripheral thermoplastic structure (1 14) comprises at least one cooperation interface with the periphery of an edge of a support structure (12) of at least one battery cell.

8. Module (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the peripheral thermoplastic structure (114) is made by at least a portion of a peripheral edge of the support structure (12).

9. Module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one inlet (15) and / or outlet (16) of the fluid is carried by a first of the two substantially planar structures (111, 112) of the heat exchange panel (11), the second of the two structures (111, 112) having a solid surface positioned opposite the inlet (15) and / or outlet (16).

10. Module (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the module (1) also comprises a second heat exchange panel (21) positioned against the first heat exchange panel (11). [Claim 1 1 ] Module (1 ) according to claim 10, characterized in that the inlet (15) and outlet (16) ports of the fluid of each of the heat exchange panels (1 1 , 21 ) are respectively positioned opposite each other.

12. Module (1) according to claim 11, characterized in that the fluid inlet (15) and outlet (16) ports are made so that, on the one hand, a first of the pairs of substantially planar structures (111, 112) of each of the heat exchange panels (11, 21) has an orifice (15, 16) associated with a portion of piping (115, 116) and, on the other hand, a second of the pairs of substantially planar structures (111, 112) has an orifice (18) positioned opposite the corresponding orifice 18 carried by the other of the heat exchange panels (11, 21).

13. A method for manufacturing a module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, the internal volume of which, in a heat exchange panel (11), comprises a circulation circuit for a heat transfer fluid, characterized in that the method notably includes a manufacturing step of at least one heat exchange panel (11) which further comprises: - a positioning step of at least two structures (111, 112) of substantially planar shape supported against each other, the two structures (111, 112) being joined together by their peripheral edges, - a step of positioning formwork elements against the outer faces of these two structures (111, 112), at least part of the formwork elements having a relief, - a hydroforming and / or aeroforming step by injecting a fluid between the two structures (1 1 1 , 1 12) of substantially flat shape so that these structures deform to conform to the respective surfaces of the formwork elements, - a stage of removing the formwork elements.

14. A manufacturing process according to claim 13, characterized in that the process comprises: - a step of positioning formwork elements around the junction of the assembled structures (1 1 1 , 1 12) which are substantially flat in shape, - an overmolding step of at least one thermoplastic structure (1 14) which envelops the junction of the structures (11 1 , 1 12) of substantially planar shape, - a stage of removing the formwork elements.

15. Manufacturing method according to claim 14, characterized in that the formwork elements which participate in the overmolding of a thermoplastic structure 1 14 also participate in the hydroforming and / or aeroforming operation.

16. A manufacturing method according to any one of claims 13 to 15, characterized in that the method comprises a step of positioning four substantially planar structures (111, 112) supported against each other, these four structures (111, 112) being assembled together in pairs by their peripheral edges for the production of two heat exchange panels (11, 21) supported against each other.

17. A manufacturing method according to claim 16, characterized in that the method comprises, at the level of at least one fluid inlet (15) and / or outlet (16) of the heat exchange panels (11, 21), at least one perforation step of the substantially planar structure of each heat exchange panel (11, 21) positioned opposite and / or against that of the corresponding heat exchange panel (11, 21).

18. A manufacturing method according to any one of claims 13 to 17, characterized in that the method also includes a step of assembling at least one heat exchange panel (11, 21) to a support structure (12) of at least one battery cell.

19. A heat exchanger assembly with at least one battery cell, characterized in that the assembly comprises at least two modules (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12 assembled such that the support structure (12) of at least one of the modules (1) is positioned between, on the one hand, a heat exchanger panel (11) of its own module (1) and, on the other hand, a heat exchanger panel (11) of a second module.

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