CA2117715A1 - Air conditioning device for motor vehicles - Google Patents
Air conditioning device for motor vehiclesInfo
- Publication number
- CA2117715A1 CA2117715A1 CA002117715A CA2117715A CA2117715A1 CA 2117715 A1 CA2117715 A1 CA 2117715A1 CA 002117715 A CA002117715 A CA 002117715A CA 2117715 A CA2117715 A CA 2117715A CA 2117715 A1 CA2117715 A1 CA 2117715A1
- Authority
- CA
- Canada
- Prior art keywords
- air
- passenger space
- zone
- air conditioning
- vehicle
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Abandoned
Links
- 238000004378 air conditioning Methods 0.000 title claims abstract description 31
- 230000003750 conditioning effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 27
- 230000001143 conditioned effect Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 18
- 238000004064 recycling Methods 0.000 claims abstract description 15
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 claims abstract description 6
- 230000001105 regulatory effect Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 4
- 238000001816 cooling Methods 0.000 description 2
- UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N Carbon monoxide Chemical compound [O+]#[C-] UGFAIRIUMAVXCW-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 206010019233 Headaches Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 208000032140 Sleepiness Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 206010041349 Somnolence Diseases 0.000 description 1
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N atomic oxygen Chemical compound [O] QVGXLLKOCUKJST-UHFFFAOYSA-N 0.000 description 1
- 238000007664 blowing Methods 0.000 description 1
- 229910002091 carbon monoxide Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 238000005265 energy consumption Methods 0.000 description 1
- 231100000869 headache Toxicity 0.000 description 1
- 230000006872 improvement Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000012528 membrane Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052757 nitrogen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 229910052760 oxygen Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 239000001301 oxygen Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910052698 phosphorus Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000037321 sleepiness Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000153 supplemental effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000009423 ventilation Methods 0.000 description 1
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00642—Control systems or circuits; Control members or indication devices for heating, cooling or ventilating devices
- B60H1/00814—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation
- B60H1/00821—Control systems or circuits characterised by their output, for controlling particular components of the heating, cooling or ventilating installation the components being ventilating, air admitting or air distributing devices
- B60H1/00835—Damper doors, e.g. position control
- B60H1/00849—Damper doors, e.g. position control for selectively commanding the induction of outside or inside air
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00007—Combined heating, ventilating, or cooling devices
- B60H1/00021—Air flow details of HVAC devices
- B60H2001/00185—Distribution of conditionned air
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
- B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
- B60H1/00507—Details, e.g. mounting arrangements, desaeration devices
- B60H2001/00607—Recycling
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Thermal Sciences (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Air-Conditioning For Vehicles (AREA)
Abstract
The invention concerns an air conditioning device for the passenger space of a motor vehicle comprising an air conditioning circuit (1) and a mechanism (2) comprising a first means (56, 60) of actuating a supply valve (40) between a first position in which the air to be conditioned provided to the conditioning circuit (1) originates from outside the vehicle, and a second position called the recycling position, in which the air originating from said passenger space is reintroduced into said circuit (1), and a second means (56, 58) of actuating at least one distribution valve (28) of the conditioned air between a first position in which the conditioned air is transmitted principally to a zone (30) of the windshield (30) of the vehicle, and at least one second position in which the conditioned air is transmitted to other zones (32, 34) of the passenger space (26) of the vehicle, said device being characterised in that said first and second means (56, 58, 60) are coupled in such a way that said supply valve (40) is always in a different position from its second position when said distribution valve (28) is in its first position.
Description
Case 1087 AIR CONDITIONING DEVICE FOR MOTOR VEHICLES
The present invention relates generally to an air conditioning device for motor vehicles and concerns more particularly such a device including a recycling position, for which the air introduced into the passenger space originates at least largely from the interior and not from the exterior of the vehicle.
Air conditioning devices of certain vehicles include a particular position called the "recycling" position which enables the passenger space of the vehicle to be supplied with a closed or quasi closed circuit and which is particularly useful when the vehicle passes through polluted areas, such as urban areas, underground areas etc.. The term quasi closed circuit is used to mean an air conditioning circuit allowing the circulation of a certain quantity of fresh air, namely originating from the exterior, within the passenger space.
Such air conditioning devices are particularly useful in electric traction vehicles in which they enable the energy consumption of the heating system to be reduced.
However, the use of this recycling position has the disadvantage of causing an increase in the humidity rate of the air circulating in the passenger space as a function of the time during which the vehicle is occupied and number of persons occupying the vehicle. This increase in humidity rate may rapidly result in misting of the windows, and ln particular, the windshield. In such a situation, the driver of the vehicle, forgetting that the device is set in the recycling position, in most cases reacts by activating the de-misting/de-frosting control.
This action, if it brings a temporary improvement, still does not resolve the increased humidity rate phenomenon which is due to setting the air conditioning device onto the closed or quasi closed circuit.
~ A 2 ~ 1 1 1 1 5 2 Another consequence of maintaining the recycling position for too long is the fact that the air in the passenger space, insufficiently replaced, becomes poor in oxygen and rich in humidity and carbon monoxide, in most cases, without the knowledge of the occupants, which induces a decrease in reaction capability, headaches, and even sleepiness of the driver which can evidently have tragic consequences.
An aim of the invention is thus to overcome the disadvantages of the above mentioned prior art by providing an air conditioning device for motor vehicles which prohibits the recycling position being maintained when the de-misting/de-frosting control is activated.
One aspect of the invention provides an air conditioning device for the passenger space of a motor vehicle comprising an air conditioning circuit and a mechanism comprising first means for actuating a supply valve between a first position in which the air to be conditioned provided to the conditioning circuit originates from the exterior of the vehicle, and a second position called the recycling position, in which the air originating from said passenger space is reintroduced into said circuit, and second means for actuating at least one distribution valve of the conditioned air between a first position in which the conditioned air is principally transmitted to a zone of the windshield of the vehicle, and at least a second position in which the conditioned air is transmitted to other zones of the passenger space of the vehicle, said device being characterised in that said first and second means are coupled in such a way that said supply valve is always in a different position from its second position when said distribution valve is in its first position.
Due to these characteristics, the exterior air supply valve is automatically open and connected to the passenger space when said second actuating means is in the de-~A2i l7~115 3 misting/de-frosting position which removes all risk of misting and ensures that the air circulating in the passenger space is adequately replaced.
According to one advantageous characteristic of the invention, the supply valve comprises leakage means to allow a defined flow of fresh air to enter into the passenger space. Said defined volume preferably corresponds to around 20 to 30% of the volume of air circulating in the passenger space per hour.
Thus, even in the recycling position, a certain volume of fresh air circulates in the passenger space so that the usual ventilation conditions of a motor vehicle passenger space are fulfilled. By way of example, a flow of air originating from the exterior of the order of 30m~
per hour and per person gives the occupants a satisfactory level of comfort.
Other aims, advantages and characteristics of the present invention will become clear upon reading the following description of an example of a particular embodiment, said description being made purely by way of an illustrative and non-limitative example in conjunction with the attached drawings in which figures 1 to 3 respectively show schematical views of an air conditioning device according to the invention in different operating configurations.
The air conditioning device according to the invention is intended to condition the air circulating in the passenger space of a motor vehicle of which only those elements which are useful for understanding the invention have been shown.
This conditioning device essentially comprises an air conditioning circuit 1 for use with a control mechanism 2.
Conditioning circuit 1 comprises a fresh air supply zone 4 with a first duct 6 intended to introduce fresh air, namely originating from the exterior of the vehicle, into conditioning circuit 1. Supply zone 4 is connected C A 2 i 1 7 7 1 5 4 via a duct 8 comprising aspiration/blowing means 10, such as a ventilator, to an air conditioning zone 12 in which air originating from duct 8 and in particular, from the exterior of the vehicle, can be conditioned. To this end, conditioning zone 12 comprises an air conditioning unit (not shown) comprising for example and in the conventional manner a filter, an evaporator, a heating valve, a heat exchanger or, in the case of an electric traction vehicle, an electric heater. Ventilator 10 and air conditioning device 12 are used to modulate the flow and temperature of the air introduced into the passenger space of the vehicle.
Conditioning zone 12 opens via a duct 14 onto an inlet 16 of a distribution chamber 18. Outlet ducts 20, 22 and 24 connect the distribution chamber 18 to the passenger space 26 of the vehicle. More precisely, distribution ducts 20, 22 and 24 distribute the air originating from duct 14, as a function of the position of a distribution valve 28, towards, respectively, a zone 30 of the windshield, a median zone 32 of the passenger space and an inferior zone 34 of the passenger space. The position of distribution valve 28 in which the air originating from duct 14 is directed towards zone 30 of the windshield is the position called the de-misting position. By way of example, median zone 32 corresponds approximately to the the front passengers' torso level and inferior zone 34 approximately to the level of the passengers' feet. Although in the example described the distribution of air originating from the conditioning area is achieved with the help of a single distribution valve 28, it goes without saying that distribution could be achieved with the help of several valves of the same type as valve 28 in conjunction respectively with each duct 20, 22, 24.
Conditioning circuit 1 also comprises a collecting zone 36 of the air circulating in passenger space 26. This ~ A ~
collecting zone 36 is linked to a duct 38 which forms means of bringing the collected air from passenger space 26 towards supply zone 4 and closing conditioning circuit 1.
Collecting zone 36 is preferably placed in a rear part of passenger space 26, for example, behind the seats, so that the collected air has circulated throughout passenger space 26.
~ he circuit of figures 1, 2 and 3 includes in its supply zone 4 another supply valve 40 intended to control the air supply of conditioning zone 12 either from the exterior of the vehicle with fresh air entering into duct 6, or from the interior of the vehicle with air originating from duct 38. Valve 40 can be moved between, on the one hand, a first position, called the open position (figure 2) in which it seals extremity 42 of duct 38 next to supply zone 4 so that almost the entire volume of air entering into conditioning circuit 1 originates from the exterior of the vehicle and, on the other hand, a second position called the closed or recycling position (figures 1 and 3) in which it seals orifice 44 of supply duct 6 so that almost the entire volume of air entering into conditioning circuit 1 originates from the passenger space via duct 38 and across orifice 42.
According to a characteristic of the invention, supply valve 40 includes leakage means 46 to allow a defined volume of fresh air to enter into conditioning circuit l when it is in the closed or recycling position.
Leakage means 46 is formed of part 48 of orifice 44 which, in the example shown, cannot be sealed by valve 40 but which may of course be formed of a by-pass duct (not shown), or the like.
By way of example and to obtain an advantageous compromise between, on one hand, passenger comfort and, in the case of an electric traction vehicle, the energy saving which can be achieved in the recycling mode and, on CA7~ i 77:1~
the other hand, the quality of the air circulating in the passenger space, leakage means 46 is capable of allowing around 20 to 30% of the total circulating air flow to enter into conditioning circuit 1.
On the other hand, when valve 40 is in its open position (figure 2), it seals orifice 42 of duct 38 in a completely airtight manner. It will be noted in this regard that conditioning circuit 1 includes in the conventional manner discharge means 50 placed in the rear area of passenger space 26. Means 50 enables the air which has circulated in the passenger space to be conventionally discharged outside the vehicle. This discharge means is symbolised in the drawings by a valve formed of a soft membrane 52 able to open in the event of an over-pressure in passenger space 26.
Control mechanism 2 is used with a control panel 54 which includes the controls of the vehicle air conditioning device according to the invention Panel 54 comprises a first control button 56 of distribution valve 28 having three positions marked respectively by the letters P, N and D on panel 54 and each corresponding to a position of valve 28. In particular, when button 56 is facing the letter P, valve 28 is in a position such that the air entering into passenger space 26 is only directed to the passengers' feet, whilst when button 54 is facing the letter N, valve 28 is in such a position that the air entering into passenger space 26 is distributed uniformly towards the zone of the windshield, towards the median zone of the passenger space and towards the passengers' feet and when button 56 is facing the letter D, valve 28 is in the de-misting position, namely a position such that the air entering into passenger space 26 is only directed towards the windshield. In order to do this, button 56 controls distribution valve 28 via connecting means 58 for the purpose of directing the conditioned air towards the upper, middle or lower areas of the passenger space.
~ ~ 2 i 1 ~ ~ 1 5 According to the invention, control button 56 is also connected to connecting means 60 of supply valve 40, so that connecting means 58 of distribution valve 28 is functionally coupled to connecting means 60 of supply valve 40 so that, when distribution valve 28 is in its de-misting position, supply valve 40 is in its open position (figure 2) and allows a sufficient quantity of fresh air to enter to enable the de-misting function to be ensured.
By way of example, first and second actuating means 58 and 60 represented by a broken line in the drawings may respectively comprise a set of cables, cams and/or rods or any other similar means (not shown).
In the example described, connecting means 60 of supply valve 40 is arranged so that the latter is completely open when control button 56 is in its de-misting position, but it goes without saying that connecting means 60 may also be arranged in such a way that supply valve occupies one of the intermediate positions between the completely closed position and completely open position when the control button is in the de-misting position, while still achieving a satisfactory de-misting function.
Control panel 54 also comprises a second button 62, independent from first control button 56 of the distribution of air in passenger space 26, which enables the temperature of the air introduced into the vehicle to be regulated via connecting means 64 represented by a broken line. Button 62 may be actuated to control the heating or cooling of the air entering conditioning zone 12. To this end, areas 66, 68 shown on panel 54 mark the cooling and heating control. It goes without saying that panel 54 may, if necessary, be completed with a control button (not shown) of the speed of ventilator 10 to regulate the flow of air circulating in circuit 1.
However, in the example described, connecting means 64 of button 62 is also used to control ventilator 10.
I~.A;~l 1'/115 The operating principle of conditioning circuit 1 of the invention is as follows :
When button 56 is facing reference mark N (figure 1) supply valve 40 is in its closed position and distribution valve 28 is in an intermediate horizontal position in the drawing. 80% of the air circulating in duct 8 originates from passenger space 26 via duct 38 and 20% from the exterior of the vehicle via leakage means 46. This air is mixed by ventilator 10 and carried towards zone 12 where it is conditioned. The conditioned air is then distributed uniformly in the passenger space via ducts 20, 22 and 24 and then collected in zone 36 and redirected towards supply zone 4 via duct 38 for a new cycle with a new volume of fresh air entering via leakage means 46. In this configuration of the position of valves 40 and 28, the device according to the invention operates in recycling mode. It should be noted that a certain proportion of the air circulating in passenger space 26 escapes regularly via discharge means 50.
When button 56 is facing reference mark P (figure 3), supply valve 40 is in its closed position and distribution valve 28 is in a position in which it seals ducts 2Q and 22. The operation of the device is then identical to that described in conjunction with figure 1 except that the air originating from zone ~2 is directed towards the passengers' feet zone 34.
Finally, when button 56 is facing reference mark D
(figure 2), supply valve 40 is in its open position and distribution valve 28 is in a position in which it seals ducts 22 and 24. In this case, the entire volume of air circulating in circuit 1 originates from the exterior of the vehicle. Once conditioned, the air is then directed directly into zone 30 via duct 20 for the purposes of de-misting. Orifice 42 of duct 38 is closed in an airtight manner and the over pressure created in passenger space 26 is suppressed by discharge means 50 ~A~1 17715 9 Main button 56 previously described thus enables several functions to be actuated, such as the opening and closing control of distribution valve 28, whilst ensuring that in the de-misting/de-frosting position, the air circulating in passenger space 26 still originates from the exterior of the vehicle, that is to say that supply valve 40 is in its open position so that there is no risk of the user setting the conditioning circuit onto de-misting/de-frosting mode when said circuit is still in recycling mode. It goes without saying that valve ~0 may also be controlled in conjunction with valve 28 so that it is placed in an intermediate position, whilst fulfilling the desired de-misting function.
The proposed embodiment of this conditioning device is particularly simple and compact, which makes it reliable and inexpensive. Of course, other functions may be added to this conditioning device, just as alternative embodiments of this device may be envisaged by a man skilled in the art, so long as in these alternative embodiments, the conditioning circuit comprises a supply zone of air originating from the exterior and a duct permitting the reintroduction of air originating from the passenger space into the conditioning area. By way of example, the conditioning device of the invention may be used with an air conditioning system or, the outlet ducts of the distribution chamber may also be more complex and include supplemental ducts, such as ducts directing the air towards the lateral windows and/or towards the rear of the vehicle.
The present invention relates generally to an air conditioning device for motor vehicles and concerns more particularly such a device including a recycling position, for which the air introduced into the passenger space originates at least largely from the interior and not from the exterior of the vehicle.
Air conditioning devices of certain vehicles include a particular position called the "recycling" position which enables the passenger space of the vehicle to be supplied with a closed or quasi closed circuit and which is particularly useful when the vehicle passes through polluted areas, such as urban areas, underground areas etc.. The term quasi closed circuit is used to mean an air conditioning circuit allowing the circulation of a certain quantity of fresh air, namely originating from the exterior, within the passenger space.
Such air conditioning devices are particularly useful in electric traction vehicles in which they enable the energy consumption of the heating system to be reduced.
However, the use of this recycling position has the disadvantage of causing an increase in the humidity rate of the air circulating in the passenger space as a function of the time during which the vehicle is occupied and number of persons occupying the vehicle. This increase in humidity rate may rapidly result in misting of the windows, and ln particular, the windshield. In such a situation, the driver of the vehicle, forgetting that the device is set in the recycling position, in most cases reacts by activating the de-misting/de-frosting control.
This action, if it brings a temporary improvement, still does not resolve the increased humidity rate phenomenon which is due to setting the air conditioning device onto the closed or quasi closed circuit.
~ A 2 ~ 1 1 1 1 5 2 Another consequence of maintaining the recycling position for too long is the fact that the air in the passenger space, insufficiently replaced, becomes poor in oxygen and rich in humidity and carbon monoxide, in most cases, without the knowledge of the occupants, which induces a decrease in reaction capability, headaches, and even sleepiness of the driver which can evidently have tragic consequences.
An aim of the invention is thus to overcome the disadvantages of the above mentioned prior art by providing an air conditioning device for motor vehicles which prohibits the recycling position being maintained when the de-misting/de-frosting control is activated.
One aspect of the invention provides an air conditioning device for the passenger space of a motor vehicle comprising an air conditioning circuit and a mechanism comprising first means for actuating a supply valve between a first position in which the air to be conditioned provided to the conditioning circuit originates from the exterior of the vehicle, and a second position called the recycling position, in which the air originating from said passenger space is reintroduced into said circuit, and second means for actuating at least one distribution valve of the conditioned air between a first position in which the conditioned air is principally transmitted to a zone of the windshield of the vehicle, and at least a second position in which the conditioned air is transmitted to other zones of the passenger space of the vehicle, said device being characterised in that said first and second means are coupled in such a way that said supply valve is always in a different position from its second position when said distribution valve is in its first position.
Due to these characteristics, the exterior air supply valve is automatically open and connected to the passenger space when said second actuating means is in the de-~A2i l7~115 3 misting/de-frosting position which removes all risk of misting and ensures that the air circulating in the passenger space is adequately replaced.
According to one advantageous characteristic of the invention, the supply valve comprises leakage means to allow a defined flow of fresh air to enter into the passenger space. Said defined volume preferably corresponds to around 20 to 30% of the volume of air circulating in the passenger space per hour.
Thus, even in the recycling position, a certain volume of fresh air circulates in the passenger space so that the usual ventilation conditions of a motor vehicle passenger space are fulfilled. By way of example, a flow of air originating from the exterior of the order of 30m~
per hour and per person gives the occupants a satisfactory level of comfort.
Other aims, advantages and characteristics of the present invention will become clear upon reading the following description of an example of a particular embodiment, said description being made purely by way of an illustrative and non-limitative example in conjunction with the attached drawings in which figures 1 to 3 respectively show schematical views of an air conditioning device according to the invention in different operating configurations.
The air conditioning device according to the invention is intended to condition the air circulating in the passenger space of a motor vehicle of which only those elements which are useful for understanding the invention have been shown.
This conditioning device essentially comprises an air conditioning circuit 1 for use with a control mechanism 2.
Conditioning circuit 1 comprises a fresh air supply zone 4 with a first duct 6 intended to introduce fresh air, namely originating from the exterior of the vehicle, into conditioning circuit 1. Supply zone 4 is connected C A 2 i 1 7 7 1 5 4 via a duct 8 comprising aspiration/blowing means 10, such as a ventilator, to an air conditioning zone 12 in which air originating from duct 8 and in particular, from the exterior of the vehicle, can be conditioned. To this end, conditioning zone 12 comprises an air conditioning unit (not shown) comprising for example and in the conventional manner a filter, an evaporator, a heating valve, a heat exchanger or, in the case of an electric traction vehicle, an electric heater. Ventilator 10 and air conditioning device 12 are used to modulate the flow and temperature of the air introduced into the passenger space of the vehicle.
Conditioning zone 12 opens via a duct 14 onto an inlet 16 of a distribution chamber 18. Outlet ducts 20, 22 and 24 connect the distribution chamber 18 to the passenger space 26 of the vehicle. More precisely, distribution ducts 20, 22 and 24 distribute the air originating from duct 14, as a function of the position of a distribution valve 28, towards, respectively, a zone 30 of the windshield, a median zone 32 of the passenger space and an inferior zone 34 of the passenger space. The position of distribution valve 28 in which the air originating from duct 14 is directed towards zone 30 of the windshield is the position called the de-misting position. By way of example, median zone 32 corresponds approximately to the the front passengers' torso level and inferior zone 34 approximately to the level of the passengers' feet. Although in the example described the distribution of air originating from the conditioning area is achieved with the help of a single distribution valve 28, it goes without saying that distribution could be achieved with the help of several valves of the same type as valve 28 in conjunction respectively with each duct 20, 22, 24.
Conditioning circuit 1 also comprises a collecting zone 36 of the air circulating in passenger space 26. This ~ A ~
collecting zone 36 is linked to a duct 38 which forms means of bringing the collected air from passenger space 26 towards supply zone 4 and closing conditioning circuit 1.
Collecting zone 36 is preferably placed in a rear part of passenger space 26, for example, behind the seats, so that the collected air has circulated throughout passenger space 26.
~ he circuit of figures 1, 2 and 3 includes in its supply zone 4 another supply valve 40 intended to control the air supply of conditioning zone 12 either from the exterior of the vehicle with fresh air entering into duct 6, or from the interior of the vehicle with air originating from duct 38. Valve 40 can be moved between, on the one hand, a first position, called the open position (figure 2) in which it seals extremity 42 of duct 38 next to supply zone 4 so that almost the entire volume of air entering into conditioning circuit 1 originates from the exterior of the vehicle and, on the other hand, a second position called the closed or recycling position (figures 1 and 3) in which it seals orifice 44 of supply duct 6 so that almost the entire volume of air entering into conditioning circuit 1 originates from the passenger space via duct 38 and across orifice 42.
According to a characteristic of the invention, supply valve 40 includes leakage means 46 to allow a defined volume of fresh air to enter into conditioning circuit l when it is in the closed or recycling position.
Leakage means 46 is formed of part 48 of orifice 44 which, in the example shown, cannot be sealed by valve 40 but which may of course be formed of a by-pass duct (not shown), or the like.
By way of example and to obtain an advantageous compromise between, on one hand, passenger comfort and, in the case of an electric traction vehicle, the energy saving which can be achieved in the recycling mode and, on CA7~ i 77:1~
the other hand, the quality of the air circulating in the passenger space, leakage means 46 is capable of allowing around 20 to 30% of the total circulating air flow to enter into conditioning circuit 1.
On the other hand, when valve 40 is in its open position (figure 2), it seals orifice 42 of duct 38 in a completely airtight manner. It will be noted in this regard that conditioning circuit 1 includes in the conventional manner discharge means 50 placed in the rear area of passenger space 26. Means 50 enables the air which has circulated in the passenger space to be conventionally discharged outside the vehicle. This discharge means is symbolised in the drawings by a valve formed of a soft membrane 52 able to open in the event of an over-pressure in passenger space 26.
Control mechanism 2 is used with a control panel 54 which includes the controls of the vehicle air conditioning device according to the invention Panel 54 comprises a first control button 56 of distribution valve 28 having three positions marked respectively by the letters P, N and D on panel 54 and each corresponding to a position of valve 28. In particular, when button 56 is facing the letter P, valve 28 is in a position such that the air entering into passenger space 26 is only directed to the passengers' feet, whilst when button 54 is facing the letter N, valve 28 is in such a position that the air entering into passenger space 26 is distributed uniformly towards the zone of the windshield, towards the median zone of the passenger space and towards the passengers' feet and when button 56 is facing the letter D, valve 28 is in the de-misting position, namely a position such that the air entering into passenger space 26 is only directed towards the windshield. In order to do this, button 56 controls distribution valve 28 via connecting means 58 for the purpose of directing the conditioned air towards the upper, middle or lower areas of the passenger space.
~ ~ 2 i 1 ~ ~ 1 5 According to the invention, control button 56 is also connected to connecting means 60 of supply valve 40, so that connecting means 58 of distribution valve 28 is functionally coupled to connecting means 60 of supply valve 40 so that, when distribution valve 28 is in its de-misting position, supply valve 40 is in its open position (figure 2) and allows a sufficient quantity of fresh air to enter to enable the de-misting function to be ensured.
By way of example, first and second actuating means 58 and 60 represented by a broken line in the drawings may respectively comprise a set of cables, cams and/or rods or any other similar means (not shown).
In the example described, connecting means 60 of supply valve 40 is arranged so that the latter is completely open when control button 56 is in its de-misting position, but it goes without saying that connecting means 60 may also be arranged in such a way that supply valve occupies one of the intermediate positions between the completely closed position and completely open position when the control button is in the de-misting position, while still achieving a satisfactory de-misting function.
Control panel 54 also comprises a second button 62, independent from first control button 56 of the distribution of air in passenger space 26, which enables the temperature of the air introduced into the vehicle to be regulated via connecting means 64 represented by a broken line. Button 62 may be actuated to control the heating or cooling of the air entering conditioning zone 12. To this end, areas 66, 68 shown on panel 54 mark the cooling and heating control. It goes without saying that panel 54 may, if necessary, be completed with a control button (not shown) of the speed of ventilator 10 to regulate the flow of air circulating in circuit 1.
However, in the example described, connecting means 64 of button 62 is also used to control ventilator 10.
I~.A;~l 1'/115 The operating principle of conditioning circuit 1 of the invention is as follows :
When button 56 is facing reference mark N (figure 1) supply valve 40 is in its closed position and distribution valve 28 is in an intermediate horizontal position in the drawing. 80% of the air circulating in duct 8 originates from passenger space 26 via duct 38 and 20% from the exterior of the vehicle via leakage means 46. This air is mixed by ventilator 10 and carried towards zone 12 where it is conditioned. The conditioned air is then distributed uniformly in the passenger space via ducts 20, 22 and 24 and then collected in zone 36 and redirected towards supply zone 4 via duct 38 for a new cycle with a new volume of fresh air entering via leakage means 46. In this configuration of the position of valves 40 and 28, the device according to the invention operates in recycling mode. It should be noted that a certain proportion of the air circulating in passenger space 26 escapes regularly via discharge means 50.
When button 56 is facing reference mark P (figure 3), supply valve 40 is in its closed position and distribution valve 28 is in a position in which it seals ducts 2Q and 22. The operation of the device is then identical to that described in conjunction with figure 1 except that the air originating from zone ~2 is directed towards the passengers' feet zone 34.
Finally, when button 56 is facing reference mark D
(figure 2), supply valve 40 is in its open position and distribution valve 28 is in a position in which it seals ducts 22 and 24. In this case, the entire volume of air circulating in circuit 1 originates from the exterior of the vehicle. Once conditioned, the air is then directed directly into zone 30 via duct 20 for the purposes of de-misting. Orifice 42 of duct 38 is closed in an airtight manner and the over pressure created in passenger space 26 is suppressed by discharge means 50 ~A~1 17715 9 Main button 56 previously described thus enables several functions to be actuated, such as the opening and closing control of distribution valve 28, whilst ensuring that in the de-misting/de-frosting position, the air circulating in passenger space 26 still originates from the exterior of the vehicle, that is to say that supply valve 40 is in its open position so that there is no risk of the user setting the conditioning circuit onto de-misting/de-frosting mode when said circuit is still in recycling mode. It goes without saying that valve ~0 may also be controlled in conjunction with valve 28 so that it is placed in an intermediate position, whilst fulfilling the desired de-misting function.
The proposed embodiment of this conditioning device is particularly simple and compact, which makes it reliable and inexpensive. Of course, other functions may be added to this conditioning device, just as alternative embodiments of this device may be envisaged by a man skilled in the art, so long as in these alternative embodiments, the conditioning circuit comprises a supply zone of air originating from the exterior and a duct permitting the reintroduction of air originating from the passenger space into the conditioning area. By way of example, the conditioning device of the invention may be used with an air conditioning system or, the outlet ducts of the distribution chamber may also be more complex and include supplemental ducts, such as ducts directing the air towards the lateral windows and/or towards the rear of the vehicle.
Claims (8)
1. Air conditioning device for the passenger space (26) of a motor vehicle comprising an air conditioning circuit (1) and a mechanism (2) comprising first means (56, 60) for actuating a supply valve (40) between a first position in which the air to be conditioned provided to the conditioning circuit (1) originates from the exterior of the vehicle, and a second position called the recycling position, in which the air originating from said passenger space is reintroduced into said circuit (1), and second means (56, 58) for actuating at least one distribution valve (28) of the conditioned air between a first position in which the conditioned air is transmitted principally to a zone (30) of the windshield of the vehicle, and at least a second position in which the conditioned air is transmitted to other zones (32, 34) of the passenger space (26) of the vehicle, said device being characterised in that said first and second means (56, 58, 60) are coupled in such a way that said supply valve (40) is always in a different position from its second position when said distribution valve (28) is in its first position.
2. Air conditioning device according to claim 1, characterised in that said different position of said supply valve (40) is its first position.
3. Air conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the control mechanism (2) comprises a single button (56) to secure control of the supply valve (40) and the distribution valve (28).
4. Air conditioning device according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the supply valve (40) comprises leakage means (46) to allow a defined flow of fresh air to enter into the conditioning circuit (1).
5. Air conditioning device according to claim 4, characterised in that said defined flow corresponds to around 20 to 30% of the air flow circulating in the conditioning circuit (1).
6. Air conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the air conditioning circuit (1) comprises an air supply zone (4) in which the supply valve is placed (40), an air conditioning zone (12) in which the air can be either heated or cooled, a conditioned air distribution zone (16) in the passenger space (26) in which the distribution valve (28) is placed, a collecting zone (36) of air situated in the passenger space (26) and means (38) of bringing air from said collecting zone (36) to said supply zone (4).
7. Air conditioning device according to claim 6, characterised in that said collecting zone (36) is situated in a lower rear part of the passenger space (26).
8. Air conditioning device according to one of the preceding claims, characterised in that it also includes control means (64) of regulating the temperature of the air provided to the passenger space (26).
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| FR9311314 | 1993-09-21 | ||
| FR9311314A FR2710296B1 (en) | 1993-09-21 | 1993-09-21 | Air conditioning device for motor vehicles. |
Publications (1)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| CA2117715A1 true CA2117715A1 (en) | 1995-03-22 |
Family
ID=9451146
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CA002117715A Abandoned CA2117715A1 (en) | 1993-09-21 | 1994-09-20 | Air conditioning device for motor vehicles |
Country Status (15)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| EP (1) | EP0645267A1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JPH07101225A (en) |
| KR (1) | KR950008182A (en) |
| CN (1) | CN1103035A (en) |
| AU (1) | AU7303594A (en) |
| BR (1) | BR9403780A (en) |
| CA (1) | CA2117715A1 (en) |
| CZ (1) | CZ223594A3 (en) |
| FR (1) | FR2710296B1 (en) |
| HU (1) | HU9402450D0 (en) |
| IL (1) | IL111001A0 (en) |
| NO (1) | NO943491L (en) |
| PL (1) | PL305104A1 (en) |
| RU (1) | RU94033467A (en) |
| ZA (1) | ZA946415B (en) |
Families Citing this family (7)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ES2145663B1 (en) * | 1996-12-11 | 2001-02-01 | Valeo Climatizacion Sa | DEVICE FOR HEATING / VENTILATION OF THE ROOM AND FOR COOLING THE MOTOR OF A MOTOR VEHICLE. |
| FR2797810B1 (en) * | 1999-08-30 | 2001-12-28 | Valeo Climatisation | CALIBRATION OF AIR INTAKE SECTIONS IN A VEHICLE AIR CONDITIONING SYSTEM |
| FR2824298B1 (en) | 2001-05-04 | 2003-12-12 | Valeo Climatisation | AIR RECYCLING DEVICE FOR A VEHICLE INTERIOR |
| JP2004345363A (en) * | 2003-03-18 | 2004-12-09 | Calsonic Kansei Corp | Air duct for vehicle |
| CN100445117C (en) * | 2005-03-02 | 2008-12-24 | 日产自动车株式会社 | Automotive ventilation apparatus and automotive ventilation method |
| KR100675095B1 (en) * | 2005-08-22 | 2007-01-30 | 연서덕 | Fragrance magnetic device, |
| CN103373321B (en) * | 2012-04-27 | 2015-11-04 | 上海汽车集团股份有限公司 | A kind of front defrosting of auto Air Conditioner or front defogging mode control method |
Family Cites Families (4)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JPS5823244B2 (en) * | 1979-03-08 | 1983-05-13 | 日産自動車株式会社 | Automatic air conditioner for vehicles |
| JPS5663509A (en) * | 1979-10-29 | 1981-05-30 | Hitachi Ltd | Car air conditioner |
| JPS5940924A (en) * | 1982-08-31 | 1984-03-06 | Nissan Shatai Co Ltd | Air conditioning control device of automobile |
| JPS60139519A (en) * | 1983-12-28 | 1985-07-24 | Hitachi Ltd | Air conditioning system for automobile |
-
1993
- 1993-09-21 FR FR9311314A patent/FR2710296B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
-
1994
- 1994-08-23 ZA ZA946415A patent/ZA946415B/en unknown
- 1994-08-25 HU HU9402450A patent/HU9402450D0/en unknown
- 1994-09-05 KR KR1019940022200A patent/KR950008182A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1994-09-08 JP JP6239713A patent/JPH07101225A/en active Pending
- 1994-09-13 CZ CZ942235A patent/CZ223594A3/en unknown
- 1994-09-15 EP EP94114524A patent/EP0645267A1/en not_active Withdrawn
- 1994-09-19 IL IL11100194A patent/IL111001A0/en unknown
- 1994-09-19 AU AU73035/94A patent/AU7303594A/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-09-20 BR BR9403780A patent/BR9403780A/en not_active Application Discontinuation
- 1994-09-20 NO NO943491A patent/NO943491L/en unknown
- 1994-09-20 CA CA002117715A patent/CA2117715A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 1994-09-20 PL PL94305104A patent/PL305104A1/en unknown
- 1994-09-20 RU RU94033467/11A patent/RU94033467A/en unknown
- 1994-09-20 CN CN94116099A patent/CN1103035A/en active Pending
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| HU9402450D0 (en) | 1994-11-28 |
| FR2710296B1 (en) | 1995-10-27 |
| CZ223594A3 (en) | 1995-04-12 |
| IL111001A0 (en) | 1994-11-28 |
| RU94033467A (en) | 1997-05-27 |
| JPH07101225A (en) | 1995-04-18 |
| PL305104A1 (en) | 1995-04-03 |
| CN1103035A (en) | 1995-05-31 |
| FR2710296A1 (en) | 1995-03-31 |
| NO943491L (en) | 1995-03-22 |
| ZA946415B (en) | 1995-03-17 |
| KR950008182A (en) | 1995-04-17 |
| BR9403780A (en) | 1995-05-23 |
| NO943491D0 (en) | 1994-09-20 |
| AU7303594A (en) | 1995-04-06 |
| EP0645267A1 (en) | 1995-03-29 |
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Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| FZDE | Discontinued |