Manifold fluid module and vehicle heat management system

Abstract

Disclosed in an embodiment is a manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates, the module comprising: a manifold block having therein a flow path through which the refrigerant moves; and a plurality of manifold valves coupled to the manifold block, wherein the manifold block has a plurality of pockets into which the respective manifold valves are inserted, the respective pockets are connected to the flow path, and the respective manifold valves selectively open and close, in the pocket, the flow path according to an air-conditioning mode so as to adjust the movement direction of the refrigerant.

Description

Manifold fluid module and automotive thermal management system

[0001] The present invention relates to a manifold fluid module and a thermal management system for a vehicle including the same.

[0002] Vehicle air conditioning systems utilize a heat pump system that can selectively perform cooling and heating of the vehicle's interior using a refrigerant cycle.

[0003] Vehicle heat pump systems that use batteries, such as those in electric vehicles, are configured to improve the performance of the heat pump system by recovering battery waste heat along with electrical waste heat through heat exchange between the refrigerant and the coolant.

[0004] Currently, the modular configuration of heat pump systems for electric vehicles is a partial modular design in which critical components (valves, accumulators, chillers, condensers, heat exchangers, sensors, etc.) are connected by piping, and fittings and connectors must be configured separately for these piping connections. Consequently, gaps are created between components for connection, which results in disadvantages in terms of packaging, cost, and workability, thus requiring improvement.

[0005] Meanwhile, heat pump systems have a simple configuration, and their performance varies depending on the control of the movement of refrigerant and cooling water. Therefore, methods to improve performance and efficiency are being sought.

[0006] The problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a manifold fluid module that is modularized into a single unit by mounting a valve together with a manifold block that performs the functions of piping, fittings, and housing.

[0007] In addition, the problem that the present invention aims to solve is to provide a thermal management system for vehicles that can improve heating and cooling performance and efficiency.

[0008] The problems of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other problems not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description below.

[0009] A manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention is a manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which refrigerant circulates, comprising a manifold block having a flow path through which refrigerant moves inside, and a plurality of manifold valves coupled to the manifold block, wherein the manifold block has a plurality of pockets into which each of the plurality of manifold valves is inserted, and each of the plurality of pockets is connected to the flow path, and each of the plurality of manifold valves may be configured to selectively open and close the flow path within the pocket according to an air conditioning mode to control the direction of movement of the refrigerant.

[0010] The plurality of pockets above include a first pocket to which a first manifold valve is coupled, a second pocket to which a second manifold valve is coupled, and a third pocket to which a third manifold valve is coupled, and the first pocket, the second pocket, and the third pocket may be provided in a structure that is open forward from the front of the manifold block.

[0011] The above-mentioned flow path may include: a first inlet flow path that introduces refrigerant into the manifold block and is connected to the first pocket, the second pocket, and the third pocket, respectively; a second inlet flow path that introduces and discharges refrigerant into the manifold block and is connected to the second pocket and the third pocket, respectively; a first discharge flow path that discharges refrigerant from the first pocket; a second discharge flow path that discharges refrigerant from the first pocket in a direction different from the first discharge flow path; a third discharge flow path that discharges refrigerant introduced into the second pocket; and a fourth discharge flow path that discharges refrigerant introduced into the third pocket.

[0012] The first inlet channel includes a first connecting channel connected to one inner surface of the third pocket, and the second inlet channel may include a second connecting channel connected to the inner surface of the second pocket and a third connecting channel connected to the other inner surface of the third pocket.

[0013] The first inlet passage may be configured such that one end is connected to a first port on one side of the manifold block and the other end is connected to the first pocket on the bottom surface of the first pocket, and the second inlet passage may be configured such that one end is connected to a second port on the rear surface of the manifold block and the other end is connected to a third port on one side of the manifold block.

[0014] The first discharge channel may be configured to extend from one inner side of the first pocket and connect to a fourth port on the other side of the manifold block, and the second discharge channel may be configured to extend from the other inner side of the first pocket and connect to a fifth port on the rear of the manifold block.

[0015] The third discharge channel may be configured to extend from the bottom surface of the second pocket and connect to the sixth port at the rear of the manifold block, and the fourth discharge channel may be configured to extend from the bottom surface of the third pocket and connect to the seventh port on one side of the manifold block.

[0016] It further includes a third inlet passage for introducing refrigerant into the manifold block, and the third inlet passage may be configured to extend from the second discharge passage and be connected to an eighth port on the other side of the manifold block.

[0017] The first port is connected to a refrigerant line extending from the indoor unit, the second port is connected to a refrigerant line extending from the internal heat exchanger, and the third port can be connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the first row air conditioning unit.

[0018] The above-mentioned fourth port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the outdoor unit, and the above-mentioned fifth port can be connected to a refrigerant line directed toward the internal heat exchanger.

[0019] The above-mentioned 6th port is connected to a refrigerant line toward a heat exchanger, and the above-mentioned 7th port can be connected to a refrigerant line toward a 2nd row air conditioning unit.

[0020] The second pocket and the third pocket may be positioned at the same horizontal level, the first pocket may be positioned at a level relatively higher than the second pocket and the third pocket, the first inflow channel may be positioned at the same level as the first pocket, and the second inflow channel may be positioned at a level relatively lower than the second pocket and the third pocket.

[0021] The above plurality of manifold valves may include cartridge-type valves.

[0022] A thermal management system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a refrigerant line through which a refrigerant circulates and a cooling water line through which a cooling water circulates. The refrigerant line may include a first refrigerant line in which a compressor, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, an internal heat exchanger, a first evaporator, a heat exchanger, and a manifold fluid module are arranged, and a second refrigerant line connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line in which a second evaporator is arranged.

[0023] The first refrigerant line includes a first refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the first evaporator, and the second refrigerant line may include a second refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the second evaporator and a third refrigerant valve disposed on the outlet side of the second evaporator.

[0024] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a manifold fluid module can be provided that is modularized into one by mounting a valve together with a manifold block that performs the functions of piping, fittings, and housing.

[0025] In addition, a vehicle thermal management system capable of improving heating and cooling performance and efficiency can be provided.

[0026] The effects of the present invention are not limited to those mentioned above, and other unmentioned effects will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art from the description in the claims.

[0027] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing a thermal management system for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] FIGS. 4 to 6 are drawings showing a manifold block having a flow path and a pocket in a manifold fluid module.

[0030] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the operation of a vehicle thermal management system in cooling mode.

[0031] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing the operation of a thermal management system for a vehicle in heating mode.

[0032] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the operation in the dehumidification mode of a thermal management system for a vehicle.

[0033] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the operation of a thermal management system for vehicles in the anti-fogging mode.

[0034] The present invention is susceptible to various modifications and may have various embodiments, and specific embodiments are illustrated and described in the drawings. However, this is not intended to limit the invention to specific embodiments, and it should be understood that the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and substitutions that fall within the spirit and scope of the invention. Terms including ordinal numbers, such as first, second, etc., may be used to describe various components, but said components are not limited by said terms. Such terms are used solely for the purpose of distinguishing one component from another. For example, without departing from the scope of the invention, a second component may be named a first component, and similarly, a first component may be named a second component. The term "and / or" includes a combination of a plurality of related described items or any of a plurality of related described items.

[0035] When it is stated that one component is "connected" or "connected" to another component, it should be understood that while it may be directly connected or connected to that other component, there may also be other components in between. On the other hand, when it is stated that one component is "directly connected" or "directly connected" to another component, it should be understood that there are no other components in between.

[0036] In the description of the embodiments, where one component is described as being formed "on or under" another component, "on or under" includes both cases where the two components are in direct contact with each other and cases where one or more other components are positioned indirectly between the two components. Furthermore, when expressed as "on or under," it may include the meaning of a downward direction as well as an upward direction relative to one component.

[0037] The terms used in this application are used merely to describe specific embodiments and are not intended to limit the invention. The singular expression includes the plural expression unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. In this application, terms such as "comprising" or "having" are intended to specify the presence of the features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof described in the specification, and should be understood as not precluding the existence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, actions, components, parts, or combinations thereof.

[0038] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used herein, including technical or scientific terms, shall have the same meaning as generally understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. Terms such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries shall be interpreted as having a meaning consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant technology, and shall not be interpreted in an ideal or overly formal sense unless explicitly defined in this application.

[0039] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings, provided that identical or corresponding components are given the same reference number regardless of the drawing symbols, and redundant descriptions thereof will be omitted.

[0040] Figure 1 schematically shows a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Referring to the drawings, a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a refrigerant line (100) through which a refrigerant circulates and a coolant line (200) through which a coolant circulates.

[0042] The refrigerant line (100) may include a first refrigerant line (101) in which a compressor (110), an indoor unit (120), an outdoor unit (130), an internal heat exchanger (150), a first evaporator (140), a heat exchanger (160), and a manifold fluid module (10) are arranged, and a second refrigerant line (102) connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line (101) in which a second evaporator (145) is arranged. In an embodiment, an accumulator (170) may be further arranged in the first refrigerant line (101). The indoor unit (120) and the first evaporator (140) may be installed in the first row (front seat) air conditioning unit (AC1), and the second evaporator (145) may be installed in the second row (rear seat) air conditioning unit (AC2).

[0043] Additionally, the refrigerant line (100) may further include a first branch line (103), a second branch line (104), and a third branch line (105).

[0044] The first refrigerant line (101) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant passes through the compressor (110), indoor unit (120), outdoor unit (130), internal heat exchanger (150), first evaporator (140), heat exchanger (160), and accumulator (170) and then moves back to the compressor (110). At this time, the refrigerant that has passed through the first evaporator (140) can be configured to pass through the heat exchanger (160), pass through the internal heat exchanger (150) again, and then move to the accumulator (170). A first refrigerant valve (171) can be placed at the inlet side of the first evaporator (140) in the first refrigerant line (101).

[0045] The refrigerant circulating along the first refrigerant line (101) can be configured to move through the manifold fluid module (10). The manifold fluid module (10) has a path (320) through which the refrigerant moves, and the path (320) can be connected to the refrigerant line (100).

[0046] The manifold fluid module (10) may be equipped with a first manifold valve (410), a second manifold valve (420), and a third manifold valve (430). The first manifold valve (410) may be positioned at the outlet side of the indoor unit (120) in the first refrigerant line (101), the second manifold valve (420) may be positioned at the inlet side of the heat exchanger (160), and the third manifold valve (430) may be positioned at the branch point with the second refrigerant line (102).

[0047] One end of the second refrigerant line (102) is connected to the third manifold valve (430), and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) at the outlet side of the second evaporator (145).

[0048] The second refrigerant line (102) can implement a circulation loop in which the refrigerant traveling along the first refrigerant line (101) branches off from the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the second evaporator (145), flows back into the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the heat exchanger (160) and the accumulator (170), and then moves back to the compressor (110).

[0049] A second refrigerant valve (172) may be positioned at the inlet side of the second evaporator (145) in the second refrigerant line (102), and a third refrigerant valve (173) may be positioned at the outlet side of the second evaporator (145). Additionally, the third manifold valve (430) of the manifold fluid module (10) may be positioned at the inlet side of the second refrigerant valve (172) at the branch point of the second refrigerant line (102).

[0050] In an embodiment, the second refrigerant line (102) may include a bypass line (102-1). The bypass line (102-1) may be configured to bypass the second evaporator (145) and connect the second refrigerant valve (172) and the third refrigerant valve (173).

[0051] The compressor (110) receives power from a power source such as an engine or motor, compresses the refrigerant that has been introduced, and then discharges it into the first refrigerant line (101) in a high-temperature, high-pressure gaseous state.

[0052] The indoor unit (120) is installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and can exchange heat with the refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) and the air flowing inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The air in the indoor unit (120) is heated and supplied to the vehicle interior to heat the vehicle interior.

[0053] The first manifold valve (410) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions of the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120). In an embodiment, the first manifold valve (410) may be a cartridge-type electronic 3-way expansion valve (EXV).

[0054] The outdoor unit (130) can exchange heat with the incoming refrigerant and the heat medium. In an embodiment, the outdoor unit (130) may include an air-cooled condenser, and the heat medium that exchanges heat with the refrigerant may include outside air. The refrigerant that has exchanged heat with the outside air may be condensed.

[0055] The internal heat exchanger (150) can be configured to exchange heat between the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) and the refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160).

[0056] One side of the internal heat exchanger (150) may be positioned downstream of the outdoor unit (130) in the first refrigerant line (101), and the other side may be positioned downstream of the heat exchanger (160). That is, the internal heat exchanger (150) may be positioned so that the section of the first refrigerant line (101) leading from the outdoor unit (130) to the first evaporator (140) and the section leading from the heat exchanger (160) to the compressor (110) pass through it.

[0057] The first refrigerant valve (171) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant that passes through the internal heat exchanger (150) to the first evaporator (140). In an embodiment, the first refrigerant valve (171) may be an electronic 2-way expansion valve or a solenoid-type superheat control 2-way expansion valve (TXV).

[0058] The first evaporator (140) is installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and can exchange heat between the incoming refrigerant and the air flowing inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied to the interior of the vehicle to cool the first-row space.

[0059] A temperature control door (DR1) may be installed between the first evaporator (140) and the indoor unit (120) inside the first air conditioning unit (AC1) to control the amount of air bypassing the indoor unit (120) and the amount of air passing through the indoor unit (120).

[0060] Additionally, a PTC heater (HT1) may be installed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). The PTC heater (HT1) is placed inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) together with the indoor unit (120) and is used as a means to heat the air, and can be used as a means to supplement the temperature required for vehicle air conditioning when the indoor unit (120) does not meet this requirement.

[0061] The third manifold valve (430) may be placed at the branching point of the first refrigerant line (101) and the second refrigerant line (102). The third manifold valve (430) may perform flow rate control and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant moving to the second refrigerant line (102). In an embodiment, the third manifold valve (430) may be a 3-way valve without an expansion function.

[0062] Depending on the air conditioning mode, the direction of the refrigerant flowing into the third manifold valve (430) may differ. For example, in cooling mode, the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) may flow into the third manifold valve (430) after passing through the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150). Additionally, in heating mode, the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) may flow directly into the third manifold valve (430).

[0063] The second refrigerant valve (172) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant moving along the second refrigerant line (102) to the second evaporator (145). In an embodiment, the second refrigerant valve (172) may be a fully open type electronic 3-way expansion valve (EXV).

[0064] The second evaporator (145) is installed inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and can exchange heat between the incoming refrigerant and the air flowing inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2).

[0065] The second evaporator (145) can be configured to condense or evaporate the refrigerant depending on the operating mode. For example, in the cooling mode, the second evaporator (145) evaporates the refrigerant, and the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied into the vehicle interior to cool the second row space. Also, in the heating mode, the second evaporator (145) condenses the refrigerant, and the air that has exchanged heat with the refrigerant is supplied into the vehicle interior to heat the second row space. In other words, it enables the implementation of multiple functions with a single component.

[0066] A PTC heater (HT2) and a temperature control door (DR2) may be installed inside the second air conditioning unit (AC2). When operating in heating mode, heating is achieved by heating the air through the second evaporator (145), which reduces the usage of the PTC heater (HT2), thereby making it possible to reduce power consumption.

[0067] The third refrigerant valve (173) can perform expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions for the refrigerant that passes through the second evaporator (145) and moves to the first refrigerant line (101). In an embodiment, the third refrigerant valve (173) may be a fully open type electronic 3-way expansion valve (EXV).

[0068] In the second refrigerant line (102), the bypass line (102-1) can be configured so that the refrigerant bypasses the second evaporator (145) and moves to the third refrigerant valve (173) after passing through the second refrigerant valve (172). One end of the bypass line (102-1) may be connected to the second refrigerant valve (172), and the other end may be connected to the third refrigerant valve (173).

[0069] Depending on the presence or absence of passengers in the second row and the air conditioning mode, the refrigerant may move from the second refrigerant valve (172) to the third refrigerant valve (173) after passing through the second evaporator (145), or it may move from the second refrigerant valve (172) to the third refrigerant valve (173) by bypassing the second evaporator (145) along the bypass line (102-1). For example, if there are no passengers in the second row and air conditioning is unnecessary, the system is configured so that the refrigerant does not flow to the second evaporator (145) provided to the second row. Accordingly, the refrigerant pressure within the system decreases, and thus the power consumption of the compressor (110) is reduced, resulting in an effect of improving vehicle fuel efficiency. This has the effect of increasing the driving range of the vehicle.

[0070] The heat exchanger (160) may be configured so that the refrigerant and the cooling water exchange heat through the cooling water line (200). That is, the heat exchanger (150) may be arranged so that the refrigerant line (100) and the cooling water line (200) pass through it. In an embodiment, the heat exchanger (160) may include a chiller.

[0071] The accumulator (170) can be positioned at the inlet side of the compressor (110) in the first refrigerant line (101). When refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160) flows into the accumulator (170), the accumulator (170) can separate the refrigerant into gas and liquid and supply the gaseous refrigerant to the compressor (110).

[0072] The first branch line (103) may be configured so that the refrigerant branched from the first refrigerant line (101) and passed through the indoor unit (120) bypasses the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150) to move to the second evaporator (145). One end of the first branch line (103) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) between the indoor unit (120) and the first manifold valve (410), and the other end may be connected to the third manifold valve (430).

[0073] The second branch line (104) can be configured so that the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150) bypasses the first evaporator (140) and the second evaporator (145) and moves to the heat exchanger (160). One end of the second branch line (104) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) at the outlet side of the internal heat exchanger (150), and the other end may be connected to the heat exchanger (160). At the heat exchanger (160), the second branch line (104) may be connected to the first refrigerant line (101).

[0074] A second manifold valve (420) may be installed in the second branch line (104). The second manifold valve (420) may be a cartridge-type electronic 2-way expansion valve capable of performing refrigerant expansion, flow rate control, and opening / closing functions. Refrigerant passing through the second manifold valve (420) may be introduced into a heat exchanger (160).

[0075] The third branch line (105) can be configured so that the refrigerant branched from the first refrigerant line (101) and passed through the indoor unit (120) bypasses the outdoor unit (130) and moves to the internal heat exchanger (150).

[0076] One end of the third branch line (105) is connected to the first manifold valve (410), and the other end can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) between the outdoor unit (130) and the internal heat exchanger (150).

[0077] Meanwhile, the cooling water line (200) may be configured so that the cooling water circulates through a battery (not shown) and electrical components (not shown). The cooling water line (200) may be arranged to pass through a heat exchanger (160). The cooling water of the cooling water line (200) may exchange heat with the refrigerant of the refrigerant line (100) at the heat exchanger (160).

[0078] Hereinafter, a manifold fluid module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0079] FIGS. 2 and FIGS. 3 are drawings showing a manifold fluid module according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 4 to 6 are drawings showing a manifold block having a flow path and a pocket in the manifold fluid module.

[0080] A manifold fluid module (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention can be connected to a first refrigerant line (101) through which refrigerant circulates in a thermal management system (1) for a vehicle.

[0081] Referring to the drawing, the manifold fluid module (10) may include a manifold block (300) having a flow path (320) through which refrigerant moves, and a plurality of manifold valves (400) coupled to the manifold block (300). That is, a first manifold valve (410), a second manifold valve (420), and a third manifold valve (430) may be coupled to the manifold block (300) to provide a modularized integrated structure.

[0082] The manifold block (300) has a rectangular shape structure that is extended in a roughly straight line and may be provided with a plurality of pockets (310). The plurality of pockets (310) may include a first pocket (311) to which a first manifold valve (410) is coupled, a second pocket (312) to which a second manifold valve (420) is coupled, and a third pocket (313) to which a third manifold valve (430) is coupled.

[0083] The first pocket (311), the second pocket (312), and the third pocket (313) are provided in a structure that opens forward from the front (301) of the manifold block (300) and can be arranged in parallel along the longitudinal direction of the manifold block (300). In an embodiment, the second pocket (312) and the third pocket (313) are placed at the same horizontal level, and the first pocket (311) can be placed at a relatively higher level than the second pocket (312) and the third pocket (313).

[0084] The first pocket (311), the second pocket (312), and the third pocket (313) can each be connected to the Euro (320) inside the manifold block (300).

[0085] The Euro (320) may include a first inlet Euro (321), a second inlet Euro (322), a first outlet Euro (323), a second outlet Euro (324), a third outlet Euro (325), and a fourth outlet Euro (326). Additionally, it may further include a third inlet Euro (327).

[0086] The first inlet passage (321) can be configured to introduce refrigerant into the manifold block (300).

[0087] The first inlet channel (321) is provided in a structure that extends along the longitudinal direction of the manifold block (300) and can be connected to the first pocket (311) and the third pocket (313), respectively. In an embodiment, the first inlet channel (321) can be positioned at the same level as the first pocket (311).

[0088] One end of the first inlet channel (321) may be connected to the first port (331) on one side (303) of the manifold block (300), and the other end may be connected to the first pocket (311) on the bottom surface (311a) of the first pocket (311). Additionally, the first inlet channel (321) may include a first connecting channel (321-1) connected to one inner side (313b) of the third pocket (313).

[0089] The first port (331) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) extending from the indoor unit (120). Thus, the refrigerant passing through the indoor unit (120) can flow into the manifold block (300) through the first port (331).

[0090] The first inlet passage (321) may correspond to the section between the indoor unit (120) and the first manifold valve (410) in the first refrigerant line (101). The refrigerant may travel along the first inlet passage (321) and flow into the first manifold valve (410) from the first pocket (311).

[0091] Additionally, the refrigerant may travel from the first inlet path (321) along the first connecting path (321-1) and flow into the third manifold valve (430) in the third pocket (313). That is, the first connecting path (321-1) may correspond to at least a portion of the first branch line (103).

[0092] The second inlet passage (322) can be configured to allow refrigerant to flow into and out of the manifold block (300).

[0093] The second inlet channel (322) is provided in a structure that extends along the longitudinal direction of the manifold block (300) spaced apart from the first inlet channel (321), and can be connected to the second pocket (312) and the third pocket (313), respectively. In an embodiment, the second inlet channel (322) can be positioned at a relatively lower level than the second pocket (312) and the third pocket (313).

[0094] One end of the second inlet channel (322) may be connected to the second port (332) at the rear (302) of the manifold block (300), and the other end may be connected to the third port (333) at one side (303) of the manifold block (300). Additionally, the second inlet channel (322) may include a second connecting channel (322-1) connected to the inner side (312b) of the second pocket (312) and a third connecting channel (322-2) connected to the other inner side (313b) of the third pocket (313).

[0095] The second port (332) is connected to the first refrigerant line (101) extending from the internal heat exchanger (150), and the third port (333) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) directed toward the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1). Accordingly, the refrigerant passing through the internal heat exchanger (150) flows into the manifold block (300) through the second port (332), and the refrigerant moving along the second inlet path (322) within the manifold block (300) can be discharged from the manifold block (300) through the third port (333).

[0096] The second inlet passage (322) may correspond to the section between the internal heat exchanger (150) and the first refrigerant valve (171) in the first refrigerant line (101). The refrigerant that moves from the second port (332) to the third port (333) along the second inlet passage (322) may move to the first evaporator (140) via the first refrigerant valve (171).

[0097] Additionally, the refrigerant may travel from the second inlet path (322) along the second connecting path (322-1) and flow into the second manifold valve (420) from the second pocket (312). That is, the second connecting path (322-1) may correspond to at least a portion of the second branch line (104).

[0098] The refrigerant may travel from the second inlet path (322) along the third connecting path (322-2) and flow into the third manifold valve (430) from the third pocket (313). That is, the third connecting path (322-2) may correspond to the section between the branch point of the first refrigerant line (101) leading from the first refrigerant line (101) toward the first row side air conditioning unit (AC1) and the third manifold valve (430).

[0099] The first discharge channel (323) may be configured to discharge refrigerant from the first pocket (311). The first discharge channel (323) may extend from one side inner surface (311b) of the first pocket (311) and be connected to the fourth port (334) on the other side (304) of the manifold block (300).

[0100] The fourth port (334) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) toward the outdoor unit (130). From the first pocket (311), the refrigerant passes through the first manifold valve (410) and is discharged out of the manifold block (300) along the first discharge path (323), and can move to the outdoor unit (130) from the fourth port (334).

[0101] The second discharge channel (324) may be configured to discharge the refrigerant from the first pocket (311) in a direction different from the first discharge channel (323). The second discharge channel (324) may extend from the other inner side (311b) of the first pocket (311) and be connected to the fifth port (335) at the rear (302) of the manifold block (300).

[0102] The fifth port (335) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) toward the internal heat exchanger (150). From the first pocket (311), the refrigerant passes through the first manifold valve (410) and is discharged out of the manifold block (300) along the second discharge path (324), and can move to the internal heat exchanger (150) from the fifth port (335). That is, the second discharge path (324) may correspond to at least a portion of the third branch line (105).

[0103] The third discharge channel (325) may be configured to discharge refrigerant from the second pocket (312). The third discharge channel (325) may extend from the bottom surface (312a) of the second pocket (312) and be connected to the sixth port (336) at the rear surface (302) of the manifold block (300).

[0104] The sixth port (336) can be connected to the second branch line (104) toward the heat exchanger (160). Thus, the refrigerant in the second pocket (312) passes through the second manifold valve (420) and is discharged out of the manifold block (300) along the third discharge path (325), and can move to the heat exchanger (160) from the sixth port (336).

[0105] The fourth discharge channel (326) may be configured to discharge refrigerant from the third pocket (313). The fourth discharge channel (326) may extend from the bottom surface (313a) of the third pocket (313) and be connected to the seventh port (337) on one side (303) of the manifold block (300).

[0106] The 7th port (337) can be connected to the 2nd refrigerant line (102) directed toward the 2nd row air conditioning unit (AC2). Thus, the refrigerant from the 3rd pocket (313) passes through the 3rd manifold valve (430) and is discharged out of the manifold block (300) along the 4th discharge path (326), and can move from the 7th port (337) to the 2nd refrigerant line (102).

[0107] The third inlet passage (327) may be configured to introduce refrigerant into the manifold block (300). The third inlet passage (327) may extend from the second outlet passage (324) and be connected to the eighth port (338) on the other side (304) of the manifold block (300).

[0108] The eighth port (338) can be connected to the first refrigerant line (101) extending from the outdoor unit (130). Thus, the refrigerant passing through the outdoor unit (130) flows into the manifold block (300) through the eighth port (338) and moves to the second discharge path (324) along the third inlet path (327). Then, from the second discharge path (324), it is discharged out of the manifold block (300) through the fifth port (335) and can move to the internal heat exchanger (150) from the fifth port (335).

[0109] The first manifold valve (410), the second manifold valve (420), and the third manifold valve (430) can each be configured to selectively open and close the flow path (320) according to the air conditioning mode within the first pocket (311), the second pocket (312), and the third pocket (313) to control the direction of movement of the refrigerant.

[0110] In an embodiment, the first manifold valve (410) can selectively open and close the first discharge path (323) and the second discharge path (324) to move the refrigerant introduced along the first inlet path (321) to the first discharge path (323) or the second discharge path (324). Additionally, the first manifold valve (410) can be controlled to be closed so that the refrigerant cannot be introduced.

[0111] The second manifold valve (420) can selectively open and close the second connecting passage (322-1) to allow refrigerant to flow in through the second connecting passage (322-1). Additionally, the second manifold valve (420) can be controlled to be closed so that refrigerant cannot flow in.

[0112] The third manifold valve (430) can selectively open and close the first connecting passage (321-1) and the third connecting passage (322-2) to allow refrigerant to flow in through either the first connecting passage (321-1) or the third connecting passage (322-2). Additionally, the third manifold valve (430) can be controlled to be closed so that refrigerant cannot flow in.

[0113] The operation according to the air conditioning mode of a vehicle thermal management system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0114] Figure 7 shows the operation in cooling mode.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 7, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), passes through the indoor unit (120) and the first manifold valve (410), exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor unit (130), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150), and exchanges heat with the refrigerant moving to the compressor (110).

[0116] A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) travels along the first refrigerant line (101), expands at the first refrigerant valve (171), and then flows into the heat exchanger (160) after exchanging heat with the air of the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) at the first evaporator (140), and then exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160). The refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160) then exchanges heat with the refrigerant that has traveled through the outdoor unit (130) from the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0117] The remainder of the refrigerant passes through the third manifold valve (430) and travels along the second refrigerant line (102), and after being expanded at the second refrigerant valve (172), flows into the second evaporator (145). After the refrigerant exchanges heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) in a non-expanded state and moves to the first refrigerant line (101). The refrigerant passes through the heat exchanger (160) and flows into the internal heat exchanger (150), and after exchanging heat with the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) in the internal heat exchanger (150), it moves to the compressor (110).

[0118] In cooling mode, the first manifold valve (410) closes the second discharge passage (324) to block the third branch line (105), the second manifold valve (420) closes the second connection passage (322-1) to block the second branch line (104), and the third manifold valve (430) closes the first connection passage (321-1) to block the first branch line (103).

[0119] Figure 8 shows the operation in heating mode.

[0120] Referring to FIG. 8, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), and passes through the indoor unit (120). A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) is expanded at the first manifold valve (410), then exchanges heat with the outside air at the outdoor unit (130), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150), and then travels along the second branch line (104), bypassing the first evaporator (140) and the second evaporator (145). The refrigerant that has passed through the second manifold valve (420) in the second branch line (104) exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160) (heat absorption), passes through the internal heat exchanger (150), and then flows into the compressor (110).

[0121] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) moves along the first branch line (103) to the third manifold valve (430) and then moves through the third manifold valve (430) to the second refrigerant line (102). In the second refrigerant line (102), the refrigerant passes through the second refrigerant valve (172) in a non-expanded state, and after exchanging heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) and expands.

[0122] The refrigerant that has moved from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101) is heat exchanged (heat absorbed) with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160) and then flows into the internal heat exchanger (150), and after heat exchange with the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) in the internal heat exchanger (150), it flows into the compressor (110).

[0123] In heating mode, the first manifold valve (410) operates to close the second discharge path (324) to block the third branch line (105), the second manifold valve (420) operates to open the second connection path (322-1) to allow refrigerant to flow along the second branch line (104), and the third manifold valve (430) operates to close the third connection path (322-2) to block refrigerant from flowing along the second inflow path (322). Additionally, the first refrigerant valve (171) operates to block the first refrigerant line (101) moving to the first evaporator (140).

[0124] In this way, in the heating mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) passes through the indoor unit (120) to heat the air inside the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) and performs heating of the first-row space, and the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) passes through the second evaporator (145) to heat the air inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby enabling heating of the second-row space. Accordingly, it is possible to reduce the usage of the PTC heater (HT2) installed in the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby reducing power consumption. That is, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant can be used as a heating heat source for the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), which has the advantage of reducing power consumption of the PTC heater (HT2) of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and reducing the capacity of the PTC heater (HT2) itself. This can lead to cost reduction.

[0125] In addition, by configuring the system so that high-temperature refrigerant flows to the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in heating mode, the amount of refrigerant flowing inside the entire system increases compared to the existing system (there is no accumulation of refrigerant in the refrigerant line inside the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2)), and the difference in the appropriate amount of refrigerant for cooling / heating decreases compared to the existing system, which has the advantage of enabling the reduction or elimination of the capacity of the accumulator (160). This can lead to the effect of reducing material costs.

[0126] Figure 9 shows the operation in dehumidification mode.

[0127] Referring to FIG. 9, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), and passes through the indoor unit (120). A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) passes through the first manifold valve (410), then exchanges heat with the outside air in the outdoor unit (130), and passes through the internal heat exchanger (150) to exchange heat with the refrigerant that is moving to the compressor (110).

[0128] A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) travels along the first refrigerant line (101), expands at the first refrigerant valve (171), and then flows into the heat exchanger (160) after exchanging heat with the air of the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) at the first evaporator (140), and then exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160). The refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160) then exchanges heat with the refrigerant that has traveled through the outdoor unit (130) from the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0129] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) passes through the second manifold valve (420) along the second branch line (104), then exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160), and then exchanges heat with the refrigerant moving through the outdoor unit (130) from the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0130] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) moves along the first branch line (103) to the third manifold valve (430) and then moves through the third manifold valve (430) to the second refrigerant line (102). In the second refrigerant line (102), the refrigerant passes through the second refrigerant valve (172) in a non-expanded state, and after exchanging heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) and expands.

[0131] The refrigerant that has moved from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101) is heat exchanged (heat absorbed) with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160) and then flows into the internal heat exchanger (150), and after heat exchange with the refrigerant that has passed through the outdoor unit (130) in the internal heat exchanger (150), it flows into the compressor (110).

[0132] In dehumidification mode, the first manifold valve (410) closes the second discharge path (324) to block the third branch line (105), the second manifold valve (420) opens the second connection path (322-1) to allow refrigerant to flow along the second branch line (104), and the third manifold valve (430) closes the third connection path (322-2) to block refrigerant from flowing along the second inflow path (322).

[0133] Figure 10 shows the operation in the implantation prevention mode.

[0134] Referring to FIG. 10, the refrigerant is discharged from the compressor (110), travels along the first refrigerant line (101), and passes through the indoor unit (120). A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) travels along the third branch line (105) through the first manifold valve (410) and exchanges heat with the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) and is moving to the compressor (110).

[0135] A portion of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) travels along the first refrigerant line (101), expands at the first refrigerant valve (171), and after exchanging heat with the air of the first-row air conditioning unit (AC1) at the first evaporator (140), flows into the heat exchanger (160) and exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) at the heat exchanger (160). The refrigerant that has passed through the heat exchanger (160) then exchanges heat with the refrigerant that is traveling along the third branch line (105) in the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0136] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the internal heat exchanger (150) passes through the second manifold valve (420) along the second branch line (104), then exchanges heat with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160), and then exchanges heat with the refrigerant moving through the outdoor unit (130) from the internal heat exchanger (150) and then moves to the compressor (110).

[0137] The remainder of the refrigerant that has passed through the indoor unit (120) moves along the first branch line (103) to the third manifold valve (430) and then moves through the third manifold valve (430) to the second refrigerant line (102). In the second refrigerant line (102), the refrigerant passes through the second refrigerant valve (172) in a non-expanded state, and after exchanging heat with the air of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) in the second evaporator (145), it passes through the third refrigerant valve (173) and expands.

[0138] The refrigerant that has moved from the second refrigerant line (102) to the first refrigerant line (101) is heat exchanged (heat absorbed) with the cooling water of the cooling water line (200) in the heat exchanger (160), then flows into the internal heat exchanger (150), and after passing through the internal heat exchanger (150) and exchanging heat, flows into the compressor (110).

[0139] In the anti-fogging mode, the first manifold valve (410) closes the first discharge path (323) to block the refrigerant from moving to the outdoor unit (130), the second manifold valve (420) opens the second connection path (322-1) to allow the refrigerant to flow in along the second branch line (104), and the third manifold valve (430) closes the third connection path (322-2) to block the refrigerant from flowing in along the second inflow path (322).

[0140] As described above, according to an embodiment of the present invention, a plurality of valves (400) constituting a manifold fluid module (10) are combined into a single manifold block (300) to form an integrated structure, which can bring about the effects of simplifying parts and reducing costs.

[0141] In particular, the design is configured to connect multiple pockets to which multiple valves are coupled through a flow path (320) provided within the manifold block (300), and ports connecting the flow path (320) and the refrigerant line (100) are respectively placed on the side and rear of the manifold block (300) considering the direction of movement of the refrigerant, thereby making the overall size more compact and shortening the distance the refrigerant travels in the system, which has the advantage of preventing system performance from degrading.

[0142] In addition, in the heating mode, the high-temperature, high-pressure refrigerant discharged from the compressor (110) is configured to be used as a heating heat source for the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2), thereby having the advantage of reducing the power consumption of the PTC heater (HT2) of the second-row air conditioning unit (AC2) and reducing the capacity of the PTC heater (HT2) itself, and thus bringing about the effect of reducing costs.

[0143] In addition, when there are no passengers in the second row and air conditioning is unnecessary, the manifold fluid module (10) is configured so that the refrigerant does not flow to the second evaporator (145) provided to the second row, thereby improving vehicle fuel efficiency and increasing the driving range.

[0144] Although the present invention has been described above with reference to embodiments thereof, those skilled in the art will understand that various modifications and changes can be made to the present invention without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as described in the following claims. Furthermore, differences related to such modifications and changes should be interpreted as being included within the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A manifold fluid module connected to a refrigerant line through which refrigerant circulates, A manifold block having a flow path through which refrigerant moves inside; and A plurality of manifold valves coupled to the above manifold block; Includes, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the above manifold block has a plurality of pockets into which the plurality of manifold valves are each inserted, the plurality of pockets are each connected to the flow path, and the plurality of manifold valves are each configured to selectively open and close the flow path within the pocket according to an air conditioning mode to control the direction of movement of the refrigerant.

2. In Paragraph 1, The plurality of pockets above includes a first pocket to which a first manifold valve is coupled, a second pocket to which a second manifold valve is coupled, and a third pocket to which a third manifold valve is coupled. A manifold fluid module characterized in that the first pocket, the second pocket, and the third pocket are provided in a structure that opens forward from the front of the manifold block.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above Euro is, A first inlet passage that introduces refrigerant into the manifold block and is connected to the first pocket and the third pocket, respectively; A second inlet passage that introduces and discharges refrigerant into and out of the manifold block and is respectively connected to the second pocket and the third pocket; A first discharge path for discharging refrigerant from the first pocket; A second discharge channel that discharges the refrigerant from the first pocket in a direction different from the first discharge channel; A third discharge channel for discharging the refrigerant introduced into the second pocket; and A fourth discharge channel for discharging the refrigerant that has flowed into the third pocket; A manifold fluid module including 4. In Paragraph 3, The above-mentioned first inflow channel includes a first connecting channel connected to one inner surface of the above-mentioned third pocket, and A manifold fluid module characterized by the fact that the second inlet channel includes a second connecting channel connected to the inner surface of the second pocket and a third connecting channel connected to the other inner surface of the third pocket.

5. In Paragraph 3, The first inlet passage is configured such that one end is connected to a first port on one side of the manifold block, and the other end is connected to a first pocket on the bottom surface of the first pocket. A manifold fluid module characterized in that the second inlet passage is configured such that one end is connected to a second port at the rear of the manifold block and the other end is connected to a third port at one side of the manifold block.

6. In Paragraph 3, The first discharge channel is configured to extend from one inner side of the first pocket and connect to the fourth port on the other side of the manifold block, and A manifold fluid module characterized in that the second discharge channel is configured to extend from the other inner side of the first pocket and connect to a fifth port at the rear of the manifold block.

7. In Paragraph 3, The third discharge channel is configured to extend from the bottom surface of the second pocket and connect to the sixth port at the rear of the manifold block, and A manifold fluid module characterized in that the fourth discharge channel is configured to extend from the bottom surface of the third pocket and connect to the seventh port on one side of the manifold block.

8. In Paragraph 3, It further includes a third inlet passage for introducing refrigerant into the manifold block, and A manifold fluid module characterized in that the third inlet channel is configured to extend from the second outlet channel and be connected to the eighth port on the other side of the manifold block.

9. In Paragraph 5, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the first port is connected to a refrigerant line extending from an indoor unit, the second port is connected to a refrigerant line extending from an internal heat exchanger, and the third port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward a first-row air conditioning unit.

10. In Paragraph 6, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the fourth port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward an outdoor unit, and the fifth port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward an internal heat exchanger.

11. In Paragraph 7, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the sixth port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward a heat exchanger, and the seventh port is connected to a refrigerant line directed toward a second-row air conditioning unit.

12. In Paragraph 3, The second pocket and the third pocket are positioned at the same horizontal level, and the first pocket is positioned at a relatively higher level than the second pocket and the third pocket. A manifold fluid module characterized in that the first inlet channel is positioned at the same level as the first pocket, and the second inlet channel is positioned at a relatively lower level than the second pocket and the third pocket.

13. In Paragraph 1, A manifold fluid module characterized in that the plurality of manifold valves include cartridge-type valves.

14. It includes a refrigerant line through which refrigerant circulates and a cooling water line through which cooling water circulates, wherein the refrigerant line includes a first refrigerant line in which a compressor, an indoor unit, an outdoor unit, an internal heat exchanger, a first evaporator, a heat exchanger, and a manifold fluid module are arranged, and a second refrigerant line connected in parallel to the first refrigerant line in which a second evaporator is arranged. A thermal management system for a vehicle characterized in that the above manifold fluid module includes a manifold fluid module according to claim 1.

15. In Paragraph 14, The first refrigerant line includes a first refrigerant valve disposed on the inlet side of the first evaporator, and A thermal management system for a vehicle, characterized in that the second refrigerant line comprises a second refrigerant valve disposed at the inlet side of the second evaporator and a third refrigerant valve disposed at the outlet side of the second evaporator.

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