CN119630929A - Refrigerant distribution module - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a refrigerant distribution module (50) comprising-a first refrigerant flow channel (11) connecting a first inlet (E1) and an outlet (S), -a second channel (12) connecting a second inlet (E2) and a first connection zone (C1), the first connection zone (C1) being arranged on the first channel (11) between the first inlet (E1) and the outlet (S), -a third channel (13) connecting a third inlet (E3) and the second connection zone (C2), the second connection zone (C2) being arranged on the first channel (11) between the first connection zone (C1) and the outlet (S), the first channel (11) comprising a one-way valve (17) arranged between the first connection zone (C1) and the second connection zone (C2), the one-way valve (17) being configured to allow refrigerant to flow from the first connection zone (C1) to the second connection zone (C2) and to block refrigerant flow from the second connection zone (C2) to the first connection zone (C1).

Description

Refrigerant distribution module

Technical Field

The present invention relates to the field of thermal conditioning systems. These systems may be provided in particular on motor vehicles. When the vehicle is an electric propulsion vehicle, such a system allows for thermal conditioning of different components of the vehicle, such as the passenger compartment or an electrical energy storage battery. The heat exchange is mainly managed by the compression and expansion of the refrigerant in the different heat exchangers, allowing selective heating or cooling of the different components of the vehicle.

Background

The thermal conditioning system uses a refrigerant circuit that includes a main refrigerant flow loop and a plurality of bypass branches. The various heat exchangers and the various refrigerant expansion devices enable control of heat exchange within the thermal conditioning system. The valve group enables different combinations of refrigerant flows in the refrigerant circuit and provides different modes of operation, i.e. selection of which exchangers are involved in the heat exchange and the direction of these heat exchanges. Each operating mode may be selected based on the thermal conditions encountered by the vehicle and its occupants, and the driving conditions. Thus, different modes of operation may be created, such as a passenger compartment heating mode, a passenger compartment cooling mode, a passenger compartment dehumidification mode or a mode for cooling elements of a vehicle drive train.

It is often difficult to integrate the thermal conditioning circuit into the vehicle. The available space for installing the entire thermal conditioning system tends to decrease, while the number of components to be installed tends to increase. Thus, it becomes more difficult to assemble the system in a vehicle. Furthermore, adapting existing systems to new vehicles may require extensive modifications to accommodate the new environment, which may increase the period and cost of development.

It is therefore desirable to provide a thermal conditioning system that is easier to integrate, that can use standardized components, and that provides optimized thermodynamic performance.

Disclosure of Invention

To this end, the invention proposes a low-pressure refrigerant distribution module comprising:

A first refrigerant flow channel connecting the first inlet and the outlet,

A second channel connecting the second inlet and the first connection zone, the first connection zone being located on the first channel between the first inlet and the outlet,

A third channel connecting the third inlet and the second connection zone, the second connection zone being located on the first channel between the first connection zone and the outlet,

The first passage includes a one-way valve between the first connection region and the second connection region,

The check valve is configured to permit refrigerant flow from the first connection region to the second connection region, the check valve further configured to prevent refrigerant flow from the second connection region to the first connection region.

The distribution module enables different low pressure refrigerant streams to be brought together for delivery to another component, such as a refrigerant compression device. The same module may be used for a variety of configurations, which allows standardization.

The features listed in the following paragraphs may be implemented independently of each other or in any technically feasible combination.

According to one aspect of the refrigerant distribution module, the first refrigerant flow channel, the second refrigerant flow channel, and the third refrigerant flow channel are formed by recesses inside the body of the module.

Because the connections between the channels and the channels themselves are made directly from the body of the distribution module, the number of hoses and connectors required to ensure refrigerant circulation is reduced.

According to one embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the module comprises a set of flat outer surfaces.

Thus, the tightening of the lugs for holding the tubes or hoses for delivering refrigerant to the inlet of the module or for discharging refrigerant from the module is simplified.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the module is substantially parallelepiped.

Thus, the module is compact, which makes integration easier.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first inlet is arranged on a flat face of the body of the module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the second inlet is arranged on a flat face of the body of the module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the third inlet is arranged on a flat face of the body of the module.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the outlet is arranged on a flat face of the body of the module.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first inlet and the outlet are arranged on the same planar face of the body of the module.

The second channel is straight.

The third channel is straight.

The first channel comprises a series of straight sections.

Thus, each channel may be obtained by drilling, which allows for a low cost manufacture of the module.

According to one embodiment, the first channel comprises a first portion extending between the first inlet and the first connection region, the first portion of the first channel and the second channel extending along intersecting axes.

According to one embodiment, the first portion of the first channel and the second channel extend along a vertical axis.

According to one embodiment, the first channel comprises a second portion extending between the first connection zone and the one-way valve. The second portion of the first channel and the first portion of the first channel extend along a vertical axis.

The second portion of the first channel and the second channel are coaxial.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the one-way valve is arranged in a cavity formed on a face of the body of the distribution module.

Thus, the refrigerant distribution module integrates a one-way valve, such as a check valve, in a simple manner.

For example, the cavity for the one-way valve and the second inlet are arranged on opposite sides of the body of the dispensing module.

Thus, the different components of the module are distributed around the outer surface of the module.

The one-way valve includes a flat portion flush with the face of the dispensing module.

The cavity for the one-way valve is cylindrical.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the cavity for the one-way valve extends along an axis coaxial to the axis of the second flow channel.

According to an embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the first channel comprises a third portion extending between the non-return valve and the second connection zone. The third portion of the first channel and the third channel extend along a vertical axis.

The second and third channels extend along a vertical axis.

According to an exemplary embodiment, the first channel comprises a fourth portion extending between the second connection area and the outlet, the fourth portion of the first channel and the third portion of the first channel being coaxial.

According to an embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the first portion of the first channel and the third portion of the first channel extend along parallel axes.

In one exemplary embodiment of the refrigerant distribution module, the body of the distribution module is made up of an assembly of metal blocks.

The body of the dispensing module is therefore strong and low cost and has a satisfactory tightness.

For example, a metal block is molded.

For example, the metal block is formed by extrusion.

For example, the metal block is made of aluminum.

The body of the dispensing module may be one piece.

The dispensing module includes a flange for securing the module to the support.

The distribution module comprises first means for holding a first tube for conveying refrigerant into the first inlet.

The distribution module comprises second means for holding a second tube for discharging the refrigerant from the outlet.

The distribution module comprises third means for holding a third tube for conveying refrigerant into the third inlet.

Each retaining means may comprise a stud and a nut.

Each retaining means may comprise a threaded bore and a fastening bolt.

The invention also relates to a thermal conditioning system for a motor vehicle, comprising:

Compression means comprising at least one inlet and one outlet,

A first heat exchanger configured to operate as a condenser,

A second heat exchanger configured to operate as an evaporator,

A third heat exchanger configured to selectively operate as an evaporator or a condenser,

A fourth heat exchanger configured to operate as an evaporator,

A refrigerant distribution module as described above,

Wherein the method comprises the steps of

The outlet of the second heat exchanger is connected to the first inlet of the distribution module,

The outlet of the third heat exchanger is connected to the second inlet of the distribution module,

The outlet of the fourth heat exchanger is connected to the third inlet of the distribution module,

And wherein the outlet of the dispensing module is connected to the inlet of the compression device.

In one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the first heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an air flow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

As a variant, the first heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with a heat transfer liquid of a heat transfer liquid circuit comprising a fifth heat exchanger configured to exchange heat with an air flow inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

According to one embodiment of the thermal conditioning system, the second heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an air flow inside the vehicle passenger compartment.

According to one embodiment, the third heat exchanger is configured to exchange heat with an air flow outside the vehicle passenger compartment.

In one embodiment, the fourth heat exchanger is configured to be thermally coupled to an element of an electric drive train of the vehicle.

The elements of the electric drive train may include an electric energy storage battery.

Alternatively or additionally, the components of the electric drive train may comprise an electronic module for controlling an electric drive motor of the vehicle.

As a further variant or in addition, the elements of the electric drive train may comprise an electric drive motor of the vehicle.

According to one embodiment, a thermal conditioning system includes a refrigerant circuit including:

-a main refrigerant flow loop comprising, in order in the direction of flow of the refrigerant:

-a compression device, which is arranged to compress the compressed air,

The first heat exchanger is a heat exchanger,

-A first expansion device, which is arranged to expand,

A second heat exchanger to be connected to the heat exchanger,

A first bypass branch fluidly connecting a first junction point on the main loop upstream of the first heat exchanger and downstream of the first expansion device to a second junction point on the main loop downstream of the second heat exchanger and upstream of the compression device, the first bypass branch comprising a second expansion device upstream of the third heat exchanger,

-A second bypass branch fluidly connecting a third junction point on the main loop downstream of the first exchanger and upstream of the first junction point to a fourth junction point on the main loop downstream of the second junction point and upstream of the compression means, the second bypass branch comprising a third expansion means upstream of the fourth heat exchanger.

The main refrigerant flow loop includes an accumulator device downstream of the first heat exchanger and upstream of the third junction.

In an embodiment of the heat conditioning system, the first bypass branch comprises an internal heat exchanger comprising a first heat exchange section upstream of the second expansion device and a second heat exchange section downstream of the third heat exchanger, the internal heat exchanger being configured to allow heat exchange between refrigerant in the first heat exchange section and refrigerant in the second heat exchange section.

Drawings

Further features, details and advantages will become apparent from reading the following detailed description and from studying the drawings, wherein:

Figure 1 is a schematic view of a first embodiment of a thermal conditioning system incorporating a refrigerant distribution module according to the present invention,

Figure 2 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a thermal conditioning system incorporating a dispensing module according to the present invention,

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the refrigerant distribution module schematically shown in figures 1 and 2,

Figure 4 is another perspective view of the refrigerant distribution module schematically shown in figures 1 and 2 from a different perspective,

Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view of the dispensing module of figures 3 and 4,

Figure 6 is another cross-sectional view of the dispensing module of figures 3 and 4,

Fig. 7 is a schematic diagram illustrating an operation mode of the thermal conditioning system of fig. 1.

Detailed Description

The various elements are not necessarily shown to scale in order to make the drawing easier to read. In the drawings, like elements have like reference numerals. Some elements or parameters may be given sequence numbers, in other words, for example, designated as first element or second element, or first parameter and second parameter, etc. The purpose of such sequential numbering is to distinguish between similar but not identical elements or parameters. Such sequence numbering does not imply that one element or parameter is preferred over another element or parameter. Thus, the terms "first," "second," "third," etc. may be interchanged. Also, the terms first/second are used in a sequential manner and do not imply that one element is prioritized over another element.

In the following description, the expression "the first element is upstream of the second element" means that the first element is placed before the second element with respect to the direction of flow or travel of the fluid. Similarly, the expression "the first element is downstream of the second element" means that the first element is located after the second element with respect to the direction of flow or travel of the associated fluid. In the case of a refrigerant circuit, the expression "the first element is upstream of the second element" means that the refrigerant travels sequentially through the first element and then through the second element without passing through the compression device. In other words, the refrigerant leaves the compression device, optionally passing through one or more elements, then through a first element, then a second element, then back to the compression device, optionally already passing through other elements.

The expression "the second element is placed between the first element and the third element" means that the shortest path running from the first element to the third element passes through the second element.

When a given subsystem includes a given element, this does not preclude the presence of other elements in the subsystem.

The expansion device used, also called an expansion valve, may be an electronic expansion valve, a thermostatic expansion device or a calibrated orifice. In the case of an electronic expansion valve, the flow area through which the refrigerant is allowed to pass can be continuously adjusted between a closed position and a fully open position. For this purpose, the electronic controller controls an electric motor that moves a movable shut-off device that controls the available flow area of the refrigerant.

The thermal conditioning system 100 to be described may be provided on a motor vehicle. An electronic control unit (not shown) receives information from the various sensors, which in particular measure the characteristics of the refrigerant. The electronic control unit also receives a setpoint, such as a desired temperature inside the passenger compartment, issued by the vehicle occupant. The electronic control unit implements control laws for operating the different actuators in order to control the thermal conditioning system 100 so as to achieve the received set-points. The compression device 7 can circulate the refrigerant in the closed refrigerant circulation circuit 10. The compression device 7 may be an electric compressor, i.e. a compressor with moving parts driven by an electric motor. The compression device 7 comprises a suction side of the low-pressure refrigerant, also called inlet 7a of the compression device 7, and a discharge side of the high-pressure refrigerant, also called outlet 7b of the compression device 7. The internal moving parts of the compressor 7 bring the refrigerant from a low pressure on the inlet 7a side to a high pressure on the outlet 7b side. After expansion in the expansion device or devices, the refrigerant returns to the inlet 7a of the compressor 7 and a new thermodynamic cycle begins. Here, the compressor 7 is a compressor having exactly one refrigerant inlet and outlet.

Each junction allows refrigerant to enter one or the other of the circuit portions that meet at the junction. By adjusting the opening degree of the expansion device and the position of the shut-off valve positioned on each branch connected to this point, refrigerant is distributed between the circuit portions meeting at the junction point. In other words, each junction is a means for redirecting the refrigerant arriving at the junction.

Here, the refrigerant used in the refrigerant circuit is a chemical fluid, such as R1234yf. Other refrigerants may be used, such as R134a, R744, or R290.

The internal air flow refers to an air flow for the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle. The interior airflow may circulate through heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) equipment. Such a device is not shown in the different figures. If desired, a motor-fan unit (not shown) may be activated to increase the flow of the internal airflow Fi.

The outside air flow Fe refers to an air flow that is not used in the passenger compartment of the vehicle. In other words, the air flow Fe remains outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. If desired, another motor-fan unit (not shown) may be activated to increase the flow of the external air flow Fe.

Fig. 1 shows a block diagram of a thermal conditioning system 100 for a motor vehicle according to a first embodiment. The thermal conditioning system 100 has a refrigerant flow circuit 10, the refrigerant flow circuit 10 enabling a controlled flow of pressurized refrigerant through various heat exchangers. In normal use, the refrigerant flow circuit is sealed and forms a closed circuit. The thermal conditioning system 100 includes a refrigerant distribution module 50.

The thermal conditioning system 100 for a motor vehicle comprises:

Compression means 7 comprising at least one inlet 7a and one outlet 7b,

A first heat exchanger 1 configured to operate as a condenser,

A second heat exchanger 2 configured to operate as an evaporator,

A third heat exchanger 3 configured to operate selectively as an evaporator or as a condenser,

A fourth heat exchanger 4 configured to operate as an evaporator,

A refrigerant distribution module 50, which will be described hereinafter.

The outlet 2b of the second heat exchanger 2 is connected to the first inlet E1 of the distribution module 50,

The outlet 3b of the third heat exchanger 3 is connected to the second inlet E2 of the distribution module 50,

The outlet 4b of the fourth heat exchanger 4 is connected to the third inlet E3 of the distribution module 50,

The outlet S of the distribution module 50 is connected to the inlet 7a of the compression device 7.

In a first embodiment of the thermal conditioning system 100 shown in fig. 1, the first heat exchanger 1 is configured to exchange heat with an air flow Fi inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

Thus, the internal air flow Fi can be directly heated, that is to say, the refrigerant condensation heat is directly transferred to the internal air flow Fi when it passes through the first exchanger 1. The first heat exchanger 1 is located in a heating, ventilation and air conditioning apparatus (not shown) of a vehicle.

In the example shown, the second heat exchanger 2 is configured to exchange heat with an air flow Fi inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. The second heat exchanger 2 is also located in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment of the vehicle. The second exchanger 2 enables cooling of the internal air flow Fi to regulate the temperature of the passenger compartment. In the heating, ventilation and air conditioning apparatus of the vehicle, the second exchanger 2 is located downstream of the first exchanger 1 in the flow direction of the internal air flow.

The third heat exchanger 3 is configured to exchange heat with an air flow Fe outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Depending on the mode of operation of the thermal conditioning system 100, the third exchanger 3 may selectively emit heat into the external air stream Fe when the third exchanger 3 operates as a condenser, or the third exchanger 3 may absorb heat from the external air stream Fe when the third exchanger 3 operates as an evaporator. The third exchanger 3 may be located, for example, at the front end of the vehicle and receives an air flow generated by the running speed of the vehicle.

The fourth heat exchanger 4 is configured to be thermally coupled to an electric drivetrain component 6 of the vehicle. The electric powertrain element 6 may comprise an electric energy storage battery. The fourth exchanger 4 enables heat to be absorbed from the element 6. Thermal coupling may be achieved by a heat transfer liquid circulating in circuit 30. The heat transfer liquid of circuit 30 may be, for example, a mixture of water and ethylene glycol. The heat transfer liquid exchanges heat with the refrigerant in the fourth exchanger 4 and with the drive train element 6.

The electric drive train element 6 may comprise an electronic module for controlling an electric drive motor of the vehicle. The electric drive train element 6 may also comprise an electric drive motor of the vehicle.

In the second embodiment shown in fig. 2, the first heat exchanger 1 is arranged to exchange heat with a heat transfer liquid of a heat transfer liquid circuit 20, which heat transfer liquid circuit 20 comprises a fifth heat exchanger 5, which fifth heat exchanger 5 is arranged to exchange heat with an air flow Fi inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle.

In this embodiment, the internal gas flow Fi is indirectly heated, because the refrigerant condensation heat is first transferred to the heat transfer liquid of the circuit 20, and then the heat from the heat transfer liquid is transferred to the internal gas flow Fi in the fifth exchanger 5. The heat transfer liquid circuit 20 includes a pump 28 capable of circulating a heat transfer liquid in the circuit 20. The fifth exchanger 5 is positioned downstream of the second exchanger 2 in the flow direction of the internal air flow Fi in the heating, ventilation and air conditioning apparatus. The other exchangers function as in the first embodiment. The heat transfer liquid circuit 20 for passenger compartment heating and the liquid circuit 30 for thermal coupling to the drive train element 6 are separate, that is to say they are unconnected.

More specifically, the thermal conditioning system 100 includes a refrigerant circuit 10, the refrigerant circuit 10 including:

-a main refrigerant flow loop a comprising, in order in the direction of flow of the refrigerant:

-a compression device (7),

The first heat exchanger 1 is a heat exchanger,

The first expansion means 31 are provided with,

The second heat exchanger 2 is provided with a heat exchanger,

A first bypass branch B fluidly connecting a first junction 21 on the main loop a downstream of the first heat exchanger 1 and upstream of the first expansion means 31 to a second junction 22 on the main loop a downstream of the second heat exchanger 2 and upstream of the compression means 7, the first bypass branch B comprising a second expansion means 32 upstream of the third heat exchanger 3,

A second bypass branch C fluidly connecting a third junction 23 on the main loop a downstream of the first exchanger 1 and upstream of the first junction 21 to a fourth junction on the main loop a downstream of the second junction 22 and upstream of the compression means 7, the second bypass branch C comprising a third expansion means 33 upstream of the fourth heat exchanger 4.

The main refrigerant flow circuit a comprises an accumulating device 9 downstream of the first heat exchanger 1 and upstream of the third junction 23. In other words, the accumulation means 9 are arranged on the main loop a between the outlet of the first exchanger 1 and the third junction point 23. A fourth junction 24 is arranged on the main loop a between the second junction 22 and the inlet 7a of the compression device 7.

The distribution module 50 comprises a part of the main loop a, a part of the first bypass branch B and a part of the second bypass branch C.

The low pressure refrigerant distribution module 50 includes:

A first refrigerant flow channel 11 connecting the first inlet E1 and the outlet S,

A second channel 12 connecting the second inlet E2 and the first connection zone C1, the first connection zone C1 being located on the first channel 11 between the first inlet E1 and the outlet S,

A third channel 13 connecting the third inlet E3 and the second connection zone C2, the second connection zone C2 being located on the first channel 11 between the first connection zone C1 and the outlet S,

The first passage 11 comprises a one-way valve 17 located between the first connection zone C1 and the second connection zone C2.

The check valve 17 is configured to allow refrigerant to circulate from the first connection region C1 to the second connection region C2. The check valve 17 is also configured to prevent the refrigerant from flowing from the second connection region C2 to the first connection region C1.

The distribution module 50 enables different flows of low-pressure refrigerant to be brought together in order to convey them to the inlet 7a of the compression device 7. The same module may be used in a variety of configurations, which allows standardization. Furthermore, the geometry of the distribution module may be optimized to reduce the pressure drop, thereby improving the thermodynamic performance of the thermal conditioning system comprising the distribution module.

Each channel 11, 12, 13 of the refrigerant distribution module 50 is a refrigerant flow channel. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is generally tubular. The refrigerant flowing in the distribution module 50 contacts the surfaces of the different channels 11, 12, 13. Each channel 11, 12, 13 has exactly one refrigerant inlet and outlet. In other words, the channel has no branches. The parallel positioned loop portion is formed of at least two discrete channels.

Each junction C1, C2 establishes fluid communication between two channels meeting the junction. The connection zone is defined by the intersection between the two channels. They are referred to as connection areas, rather than connection points, because the fluid flow channels are physically volume elements. Each connection region forms a tap point from one channel to the other.

The refrigerant flowing in the distribution module 50 is a low-pressure refrigerant. By "low pressure" is meant that the refrigerant discharged by the compressor 7 has undergone expansion in the expansion device before proceeding to the distribution module 50. The pressure of the refrigerant at the inlets E1, E2, E3 is for example less than 5 bar.

The first, second and third refrigerant circulation channels 11, 12 and 13 are formed by recesses inside the body 15 of the module 50. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is formed by a recess inside the body 15 of the module 50. Each channel 11, 12, 13 is contained entirely within the refrigerant distribution module 50.

Because the connections between the channels and the channels themselves are made directly from the body of the distribution module, the number of hoses and connectors required to ensure refrigerant circulation is reduced.

Fig. 3 and 4 are perspective views of an exemplary embodiment of a refrigerant distribution module 50. The viewing angle differs between fig. 3 and fig. 4.

The body 15 of the module 50 includes a set of flat outer surfaces. Thus, the tightening of the lugs for holding the tubes or hoses that convey the refrigerant to the inlet of the module or discharge the refrigerant from the module is simplified.

In the example shown, the body 15 of the module 50 is substantially parallelepiped. Thus, the module is compact, which makes integration easier.

The module 50 includes three refrigerant inlets E1, E2, E3 and a single refrigerant outlet S. The first inlet E1 is arranged on the plane 41 of the body 15 of the module 50. The second inlet E2 is arranged on the plane 42 of the body 15 of the module 50. The third inlet E3 is arranged on the plane 43 of the body 15 of the module 50. The outlet S is arranged in the plane of the body 15 of the module 50. The first inlet E1 and the outlet S are arranged on the same plane 41 of the body 15 of the module 50.

Fig. 5 and 6 are cross-sectional views of the dispensing module 50, wherein the refrigerant flow channels can be seen.

The second channel 12 is straight. The third channel 13 is straight. The first channel 11 comprises a series of straight sections. Thus, each channel may be obtained by drilling, which allows for a low cost manufacture of the module.

The first channel 11 comprises a first portion 11-1 extending between the first inlet E1 and the first connection zone C1. The first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 extend along intersecting axes. In the example shown, the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 extend along perpendicular axes. In fig. 5, reference numeral D11-1 denotes an axis of the first portion 11-1 of the first passage 11, and reference numeral D12 denotes an axis of the second passage 12.

The first channel 11 comprises a second portion 11-2 extending between the first connection zone C1 and the non-return valve 17. The second portion 11-2 of the first channel 11 and the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 extend along a vertical axis. The second portion 11-2 of the first channel 11 and the second channel 12 are coaxial. The axis of the second portion 11-2 is indicated by the reference numeral D11-2.

The one-way valve 17 is arranged in a cavity 14 formed on the face 44 of the body 15 of the dispensing module 50. Thus, the refrigerant distribution module integrates a one-way valve, such as a check valve, in a simple manner.

As shown in fig. 5, the cavity 14 for the one-way valve 7 and the second inlet E2 are arranged on opposite faces 44, 42 of the body 15 of the dispensing module 50. Thus, the different components of the module are distributed around the outer surface of the module.

The one-way valve 17 comprises a flat portion 18 flush with the face 44 of the dispensing module 50. The one-way valve 17 further comprises a boss 19 protruding from the flat portion 18. The boss 19 enables gripping of the non-return valve 17 and removal of the non-return valve 17 from its cavity in case of disassembly.

The cavity 14 of the one-way valve 17 is cylindrical. The cavity 14 for the one-way valve 17 extends along an axis D14 coaxial with the axis D12 of the second flow passage 12. Thus, the cavity 14 for the one-way valve 17, the second channel 12 and a portion of the first channel 11 may be obtained by drilling along the same axis, which makes the module easier to manufacture.

The first channel 11 comprises a third portion 11-3 extending between the non-return valve 17 and the second connection zone C2. The third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 and the third channel 13 extend along a vertical axis.

The second channel 12 and the third channel 13 extend along perpendicular axes. The axis of the third channel 13 is indicated by reference D13 in fig. 5 and 6.

The first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11, the second channel 12 and the third channel 13 extend two by two along a vertical axis.

The first channel 11 comprises a fourth portion 11-4 extending between the second connection zone C2 and the outlet S, the fourth portion 11-4 of the first channel 11 and the third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 being coaxial. In fig. 5, reference numeral D11-4 denotes an axis of the fourth portion 11-4 of the first passage 11.

As shown in detail in fig. 5, the first portion 11-1 of the first channel 11 and the third portion 11-3 of the first channel 11 extend along parallel axes. These parallel axes are denoted by the reference numerals D11-1 and D11-4.

Here, the body 15 of the dispensing module 50 is constituted by an assembly of metal blocks. The body of the dispensing module is therefore strong and low cost and has a satisfactory tightness.

The metal block may be molded. The metal block may also be formed by extrusion. For example, the metal block is made of aluminum.

The body of the dispensing module 50 may be in one piece.

The dispensing module 50 includes a flange 49 for securing the module to a support.

The distribution module 50 comprises first means 45 for holding a first tube for conveying the refrigerant into the first inlet E1. The distribution module 50 further comprises second means 46 for holding a second tube for discharging the refrigerant from the outlet S.

Likewise, the distribution module 50 comprises third means for holding a third tube for conveying the refrigerant into a third inlet E3 (not shown in the figures).

In the example shown in fig. 3 and 4, each holding device 45, 46 comprises a stud and a nut. According to a variant not shown, each holding means may comprise a threaded hole and a tightening screw.

In a second embodiment of the thermal conditioning system 100 shown in fig. 2, the first bypass branch B comprises an internal heat exchanger 25, the internal heat exchanger 25 comprising a first heat exchange section 25a located upstream of the second expansion device 32 and a second heat exchange section 25B located downstream of the third heat exchanger 3, the internal heat exchanger 25 being configured to allow heat exchange between the refrigerant in the first heat exchange section 25a and the refrigerant in the second heat exchange section 25B. The internal exchanger 25 can improve the performance of the thermal conditioning system 100.

Fig. 7 illustrates operation of the thermal conditioning system 100 in a so-called driveline energy recovery mode of operation. In this figure, the portion of the circuit 10 through which the refrigerant flows is shown in solid lines. The thick solid line corresponds to the high-pressure refrigerant, and the thin solid line corresponds to the low-pressure refrigerant. The portion through which the refrigerant does not flow is indicated by a broken line.

In this operating mode, the refrigerant flow Q, indicated by bold arrows, circulates in the compression device 7, becomes a high-pressure refrigerant in the compression device 7, circulates in turn in the first heat exchanger 1 where it is condensed, supplies heat to the internal air flow Fi, and then circulates in the accumulation device 9. At the third junction point 23, the refrigerant is led to the second bypass branch C, since the first and second expansion valves 31 and 32 are in closed positions and prevent the refrigerant from flowing. The refrigerant flowing in the second bypass branch C circulates in the first expansion device 31, where it undergoes expansion and becomes a low-pressure refrigerant, and then circulates in the fourth exchanger 4, where it receives heat from the drive train element 6 and enters the distribution module 50 through the third inlet E3 and proceeds to the second connection zone C2.

The check valve 17 prevents refrigerant from flowing from the second connection zone C2 to the first connection zone C1, i.e. from the fourth junction 24 to the second junction 22. Migration of refrigerant to the third exchanger 3 and the second exchanger 2 is avoided. The refrigerant contained in each of the second and third exchangers may function when the temperature of the inner and outer airflows Fi and Fe is lower than the saturation temperature of the refrigerant. Without the check valve, the refrigerant may gradually migrate to the second and third exchangers, which would reduce the heat exchange capacity of the thermal conditioning system. The presence of the non-return valve enables to operate the thermal conditioning system in this operating mode, in which only the fourth heat exchanger 4 is active and the second and third heat exchangers are inactive.

The described distribution module can also be implemented in a thermal conditioning system, in which the roles of the first exchanger 1, the second exchanger 2 and the third exchanger 3 are different.

Claims (10)

1. A low-pressure refrigerant distribution module (50), comprising: - a first refrigerant circulation channel (11), connecting the first inlet (E1) and the outlet (S), - a second channel (12) connecting the second inlet (E2) and a first connection zone (C1), the first connection zone (C1) being located on the first channel (11) between the first inlet (E1) and the outlet (S), - a third channel (13) connecting the third inlet (E3) and a second connection zone (C2), the second connection zone (C2) being located on the first channel (11) between the first connection zone (C1) and the outlet (S), The first channel (11) comprises a one-way valve (17) located between the first connection area (C1) and the second connection area (C2), The one-way valve (17) is configured to allow the refrigerant to flow from the first connection area (C1) to the second connection area (C2), and the one-way valve (17) is also configured to prevent the refrigerant from flowing from the second connection area (C2) to the first connection area (C1). 2. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to claim 1, wherein the first refrigerant circulation channel (11), the second refrigerant circulation channel (12) and the third refrigerant circulation channel (13) are formed by recessed portions inside a body (15) of the module (50). 3. The refrigerant distribution module (50) of claim 2, wherein the body (15) of the module (50) comprises a set of planar outer surfaces. 4. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the body (15) of the module (50) is substantially parallelepipedal. 5. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the first inlet (E1) and the outlet (S) are arranged on a same flat surface of the body (15) of the module (50). 6. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to any one of claims 2 to 5, wherein the one-way valve (17) is arranged in a cavity (14) formed on a surface of the body (15) of the distribution module (50). 7. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to claim 6, wherein the cavity (14) for the non-return valve (17) and the second inlet (E2) are arranged on opposite faces of the body (15) of the distribution module (50). 8. The refrigerant distribution module (50) according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the body (15) of the distribution module (50) is composed of an assembly of metal blocks. 9. A thermal regulation system (100) for a motor vehicle, comprising: - a compression device (7) comprising at least one inlet (7a) and one outlet (7b), - a first heat exchanger (1), configured to operate as a condenser, - a second heat exchanger (2), configured to operate as an evaporator, - a third heat exchanger (3), configured to selectively operate as an evaporator or a condenser, - a fourth heat exchanger (4), configured to operate as an evaporator, - a refrigerant distribution module (50) as claimed in any one of the preceding claims, in The outlet (2b) of the second heat exchanger (2) is connected to the first inlet (E1) of the distribution module (50), The outlet (3b) of the third heat exchanger (3) is connected to the second inlet (E2) of the distribution module (50), The outlet (4b) of the fourth heat exchanger (4) is connected to the third inlet (E3) of the distribution module (50), And wherein the outlet (S) of the distribution module (50) is connected to the inlet (7a) of the compression device (7). 10. The heat conditioning system (100) according to claim 9, wherein the first heat exchanger (1) is configured to exchange heat with an air flow (Fi) inside a vehicle passenger compartment, in: - the second heat exchanger (2) is configured to exchange heat with an air flow (Fi) inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle, - the third heat exchanger (3) is configured to exchange heat with an air flow (Fe) outside the passenger compartment of the vehicle, and - The fourth heat exchanger (4) is configured to be thermally coupled to an element (6) of an electric drive train of a vehicle.