EP1558886B1 - Management system for the thermal energy generated by a thermal engine in an automobile vehicle - Google Patents

Abstract

The invention relates to a heat exchange module, comprising a principal heat exchanger (256) and two secondary heat exchangers (252, 254) each having an inlet collector box (261), an outlet collector box (263), a bundle of tubes (12, 38, 39) and exchange surfaces (165) for exchange with the tubes in the bindle. The same flux of air (258) flows through the three exchangers, whilst the same fluid flows through the principal exchanger (256) and the two secondary exchangers (252, 254). The invention further relates to a management system for the thermal energy generated by a thermal engine in an automobile vehicle comprising said module.

Description

The invention relates to the field of thermal energy management systems developed by a motor vehicle engine.

The document From 19854544 shows such a system.

Motor vehicle heat exchangers are generally in the form of a bundle of fluid circulation tubes and heat exchange surfaces with the external medium, such as fins or corrugated inserts. The beam is interposed between two manifolds that distribute the fluid in the circulation tubes. Alternatively, the exchanger has a single header divided into an inlet section and an outlet section.

It is known to assemble on one main exchanger, such as a cooling radiator of a motor vehicle engine, one or more secondary exchangers to form an assembly, called still module, ready to be installed in the vehicle, the heat exchange surfaces of the module that can be common to the different exchangers. The secondary exchanger is most often an engine cooler air cooler, an air conditioning condenser or an oil cooler.

In heat exchange modules of this type, each exchanger has its own fluid circulation circuit in which circulates a particular heat transfer fluid. This results in a multiplication of the necessary pipelines. In addition, it is necessary to bring the different cooling fluids to the front of the vehicle to achieve a heat exchange with ambient atmospheric air. The exchangers are therefore frequently removed from the equipment they cool, which results in a significant length of pipes and difficulties to arrange a passage under the hood of the vehicle for these pipes, given the limited space available.

In addition, the heat exchange surface of each exchanger is fixed. It corresponds to the beam surface of the exchanger. The only possibility of adjusting the cooling of the exchanger is the starting or stopping of the circulation pump of the cooling fluid. Such a system therefore offers little adaptability to the load conditions of the engine.

The present invention therefore relates to a thermal energy management system developed by the vehicle engine that overcomes these disadvantages.

These objects are achieved according to the invention by a system according to the features of claim 1.

This gives a system comprising a component that can be called "multi-exchanger" which comprises three heat exchangers forming a unitary mechanical unit, for example through common manifolds, common dividers, common cheeks or other means connection between the respective beams of the exchangers. However, the module has the particularity that it is the same coolant circulating in the three heat exchangers, said fluid being able to be at two different temperatures because coming, for example, from two distinct fluid circulation loops, as evoked more far.

Thus, each exchanger may have at least one inlet and at least one outlet for the fluid. The tubes of one of the beams may furthermore be of identical characteristics from one exchanger to the other, at least as regards the tubes of the exchangers in which the same fluid.

According to a particular embodiment, the air exchange surfaces, also called beams, will be substantially identical from one exchanger to the other, at least as regards the exchangers in which the same fluid circulates.

In a preferred embodiment, the outlet manifold of the main exchanger communicates with the inlet manifold of at least one secondary exchanger through a through hole.

Preferably, the heat exchange module comprises a partition wall which divides the outlet manifold of the main exchanger into a main outlet chamber and a secondary outlet chamber, the main exchanger beam tubes. connected to the main outlet chamber, as well as the portion of the main heat exchanger inlet manifold connected to these same tubes constituting a main radiator, the tubes of the main heat exchanger bundle connected to the secondary outlet chamber , as well as the portion of the inlet manifold of the main heat exchanger connected to these same tubes and at least one of the secondary heat exchangers constituting a secondary radiator.

Thanks to these characteristics, it is possible to circulate the same coolant in all or part of the exchangers. It is possible to select the part of the beam in which the fluid flows. The invention also makes it possible to produce various configurations of the thermal energy management system that adapt to the different load conditions of the vehicle engine.

The exchange surface of the secondary radiator can be increased by that portion of the main radiator beam that communicates with the secondary heat exchangers. This gives a secondary radiator of larger size without increase the facial bulk of the exchange module since the exchangers can be superimposed on each other.

Preferably, the module comprises switching means that open and close the passage opening between the outlet manifold of the main exchanger and the inlet manifold of at least one secondary exchanger.

The implementation of these switching means makes it possible to vary the surface area of the heat exchanger bundle, and consequently its cooling capacity. In a particular embodiment, the switching means consist of a piston connected by a rod to a control member.

The controller can pull or push the piston to close the passage opening.

In a particular embodiment, the module comprises an inlet pipe connected to the inlet manifold of the main heat exchanger, this single pipe serving for the common inlet of the coolant in the main radiator and in the secondary radiator.

In another embodiment, the module comprises a partition wall located between the portion of the inlet header box forming part of the main radiator and the portion of the inlet manifold part of the secondary radiator, this partition dividing the manifold of the main heat exchanger into a main inlet chamber and a secondary inlet chamber, an inlet manifold being connected to the main inlet chamber for the coolant inlet into the main radiator and another manifold inlet is connected to the secondary inlet chamber for the entry of the coolant into the secondary radiator.

The heat exchange module may comprise at least one fourth exchanger belonging to a separate cooling circuit in which circulates a different cycle fluid of the heat transfer fluid of the main radiator and the secondary radiator, in particular, the main exchanger and the two secondary exchangers.

In such a configuration, the module may retain the structure of a "multi-exchanger", that is to say, a module comprising a plurality of heat exchangers forming a unitary mechanical unit, for example by means of common manifolds, common spacers, common cheeks or other means of connection between the respective beams of the exchangers.

In a particular embodiment, the manifolds of the main exchanger and / or the secondary exchangers are divided into several chambers by partition walls, so as to define a series of passes for the coolant.

The exchange surfaces may be constituted by cooling fins common to the exchangers of the module. The exchange surfaces may also be constituted by corrugated inserts common to the exchangers of the module.

In either case, they may be equipped with means for breaking the thermal bridge between the exchangers, in order to avoid the difficulties that may arise from the circulation therein of a fluid at different temperature levels. from one exchanger to another.

The exchange surfaces can be assembled to the tubes of the exchangers by soldering. They can also be mechanically assembled to the tubes of the exchangers.

In a particular embodiment, the manifolds of the exchangers consist of a collector plate and a lid assembled by brazing. In another embodiment, the manifolds of the exchangers consist of a header plate and a cover, in particular plastic, mechanically fixed on the header plate.

On the other hand, the invention relates to a thermal energy management system developed by a motor vehicle engine comprising a main network equipped with a main pump for circulating a coolant cycle fluid between the engine and a heat pump. main cooling radiator exchanging heat with atmospheric air, the main network further comprising a short circuit line and a heating line comprising a heater, and a secondary network including a secondary radiator and a secondary pump, in which the main network and the secondary network are connected by intercommunication means which make it possible to circulate in a controlled manner the coolant between the main network and the secondary network or to prohibit this circulation as a function of the state of charge of the engine, and in which the main radiator and the secondary radiator are part of a heat exchange module as defined above.

The invention also relates to a thermal energy management system developed by a motor vehicle engine, comprising a high temperature circuit equipped with a main pump for circulating a coolant between the heat engine and a main heat exchanger. high temperature exchanging heat with the outside atmospheric air, the high temperature circuit further comprising a heating pipe having a heater, and a low temperature circuit including a secondary heat exchanger and a secondary pump, wherein the main heat exchanger at high temperature and the secondary exchanger are part of a heat exchange module, as defined above.

In one embodiment, one of the secondary heat exchangers is connected in series with a condenser forming part of a air conditioning circuit of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.

One of the secondary heat exchangers is connected in series with a charge air cooler.

The secondary heat exchanger connected in series with the charge air cooler and the charge air cooler itself are part of the high temperature circuit.

• la figure 1 est une vue en perspective d'une première variante d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 2 est une vue en perspective d'une deuxième variante de réalisation d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 3 est une vue en perspective d'une troisième variante d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 4 est une vue en perspective d'une quatrième variante d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 5 est une vue en perspective d'une cinquième variante d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 6 illustre une première variante de moyens de commutation pour un module d'échange de chaleur selon l'une des figures 1 à 5 ;
• la figure 7 illustre une deuxième variante de moyens de commutation pour un module d'échange de chaleur selon l'une des figures 1 à 5 ;
• la figure 8 est une vue en plan d'une ailette brasée destinée au module d'échange de chaleur représenté aux figures 1 à 5 ;
• la figure 9 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne IX de la figure 8 ;
• la figure 10 est une vue en coupe selon la ligne X de la figure 8 ;
• les figures 11 et 12 illustrent un assemblage entièrement mécanique d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 13 représente un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un échangeur principal, un seul échangeur secondaire et un troisième échangeur ;
• la figure 14 est une vue en plan d'une ailette destinée au module d'échange de chaleur de la figure 13 ;
• la figure 15 illustre schématiquement un système de gestion de l'énergie thermique développée par un moteur thermique comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 16 représente la configuration du système de la figure 15 en cas de démarrage à froid ;
• La figure 17 représente le système de gestion de l'énergie thermique de la figure 15 en configuration de faible charge ;
• la figure 18 illustre le système de gestion de l'énergie thermique de la figure 15 en configuration de forte charge ;
• les figures 19 à 22 illustrent schématiquement d'autres systèmes de gestion de l'énergie thermique comprenant un seul échangeur secondaire ;
• la figure 23 est une vue en perspective d'un module d'échange de chaleur comprenant un échangeur principal et deux échangeurs secondaires conforme à la présente invention ;
• la figure 24 illustre schématiquement un mode de réalisation d'un système de gestion de l'énergie thermique développé par un moteur comprenant un échangeur principal et deux échangeurs secondaires conforme à la présente invention ;
• la figure 25 illustre schématiquement un mode de réalisation d'un système de gestion de l'énergie thermique développé par un moteur comprenant un échangeur principal et deux échangeurs secondaires.

Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent upon reading the following description of exemplary embodiments given by way of illustration with reference to the appended figures. In these figures:

• the figure 1 is a perspective view of a first variant of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 2 is a perspective view of a second alternative embodiment of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 3 is a perspective view of a third variant of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 4 is a perspective view of a fourth variant of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 5 is a perspective view of a fifth variant of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 6 illustrates a first variant of switching means for a heat exchange module according to one of the Figures 1 to 5 ;
• the figure 7 illustrates a second variant of switching means for a heat exchange module according to one of the Figures 1 to 5 ;
• the figure 8 is a plan view of a brazed fin for the heat exchange module shown in FIGS. Figures 1 to 5 ;
• the figure 9 is a sectional view along line IX of the figure 8 ;
• the figure 10 is a sectional view along line X of the figure 8 ;
• the Figures 11 and 12 illustrate a fully mechanical assembly of a heat exchange module comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 13 represents a heat exchange module comprising a main exchanger, a single secondary exchanger and a third exchanger;
• the figure 14 is a plan view of a fin for the heat exchange module of the figure 13 ;
• the figure 15 schematically illustrates a thermal energy management system developed by a heat engine comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 16 represents the system configuration of the figure 15 in case of cold start;
• The figure 17 represents the thermal energy management system of the figure 15 in low load configuration;
• the figure 18 illustrates the thermal energy management system of the figure 15 in high load configuration;
• the Figures 19 to 22 schematically illustrate others thermal energy management systems comprising a single secondary heat exchanger;
• the figure 23 is a perspective view of a heat exchange module comprising a main heat exchanger and two secondary heat exchangers according to the present invention;
• the figure 24 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a thermal energy management system developed by an engine comprising a main heat exchanger and two secondary heat exchangers according to the present invention;
• the figure 25 schematically illustrates an embodiment of a thermal energy management system developed by a motor comprising a main heat exchanger and two secondary heat exchangers.

We have shown on the figure 1 a heat exchange module, designated by the general reference 2. It consists of two exchangers, namely a main heat exchanger, designated by the general reference 4, and a secondary heat exchanger, designated by the general reference 6 The main heat exchanger 4 consists of an inlet manifold 8, an outlet manifold 10 and a circulation tube bundle 12 interposed between the inlet manifold 8 and the can outlet manifold 10. The inlet manifold 8 has a partition wall 14 which divides it into a main inlet chamber 16 and a secondary inlet chamber 18. Similarly, the outlet manifold 10 has a partition wall 20 which divides it into a main outlet chamber 22 and a secondary outlet chamber 24. An inlet manifold 26 is connected to the main inlet chamber 16 and an inlet manifold 28 is t connected to the secondary entrance chamber 18.

The tubing 26 distributes the coolant in the tubes of the bundle 12 connected to the main inlet chamber and the inlet pipe 28 distributes the coolant in the tubes of the bundle 12 connected to the secondary inlet chamber 18. The main outlet chamber 22 comprises an outlet pipe 30 which allows the outlet of the coolant entered by the pipe of the 26 of the main outlet chamber 22. The secondary outlet chamber 24 has no outlet pipe, but a through orifice 32 which communicates with an inlet manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger 6. The latter also has an outlet manifold 36 and a bundle of tubes 38 interposed between the inlet manifold 34 and the outlet manifold 36. An outlet manifold 40 is connected to the outlet manifold 36 The passage opening 32 can be opened or closed by means of switching means which will be described later.

The bundle of tubes 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 and the bundle of tubes 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 are traversed by a same air flow schematized by the arrow 42. The two heat exchangers are arranged in such a way that The secondary heat exchanger 6 is cooled firstly by the air flow 42. The tubes of the bundle 12 are thus cooled by a stream of air which has already warmed up in contact with the tubes of the bundle 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6.

The portion of the tubes of the bundle 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 connected to the main inlet chamber 16 and to the main outlet chamber 22 constitutes, in what follows, a main radiator 196 (see FIG. Figures 15 - 18 ). The part of the tubes of the bundle 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 connected to the secondary inlet chamber 18 and to the secondary outlet chamber 24, in series with the bundle of tubes 38 of the secondary exchanger, constitutes, in what follows, a secondary radiator 200 (see Figures 15 - 18 ). Since the temperature of the coolant at the outlet of the secondary radiator 200 is lower than the outlet temperature of the same fluid at the outlet of the main radiator 196, the secondary radiator is also called in what Low temperature radiator (BT) and radiator main radiator at high temperature (HT). The heat exchange module 2 can thus generate two temperature levels, for example a high temperature equal to about 100 ° C and a low temperature equal to about 60 ° C. The high temperature radiator is intended to be part of a high temperature circuit and to cool the engine of the motor vehicle, as well as equipment that does not need to be cooled down to a low temperature. In contrast, the low temperature radiator is connected to a so-called low temperature network and is intended for fluid cooling for which the temperature level of the engine cooling circuit is too high.

The circulation of the coolant in the heat exchange module 2 of the Figure 1 is carried out as follows. The hot fluid of the main circuit, or high temperature circuit, enters the main radiator 196 through the inlet pipe 26 of the main inlet chamber, as shown schematically by the arrow 44, passes through the tubes 12 of the bundle connected to the main inlet chamber 16 and enters the main outlet chamber 22. The cooled heat transfer fluid exits the main outlet chamber 22 through the pipe 30, as shown by the arrow 46.

The hot heat transfer fluid of the secondary circuit, or circuit at low temperature, enters the secondary inlet chamber 18 through the inlet pipe 28, as shown by the arrow 48. It traverses the part of the tubes of the bundle 12 connected to the secondary entry chamber 18 and the secondary outlet chamber 24. It enters the secondary outlet chamber 24 and passes into the inlet manifold 34 through the passage opening 32, as shown by the arrows 50. fluid then travels the tubes of the beam 38, from left to right according to the figure, to enter the outlet manifold 36. The cooled heat transfer fluid exits through the outlet pipe 40, as shown schematically by the arrow 52. This is the same heat transfer fluid circulating in the main radiator and in the secondary radiator.

We have shown on the figure 2 a perspective view of an alternative embodiment of the heat exchange module 2 of the Figure 1 . It is distinguished by the fact that the inlet manifold 8 of the main heat exchanger 4 comprises a single inlet pipe 26 instead of the pipes 26 and 28 of the embodiment of the Figure 1 . In addition, the inlet manifold 8 has no partition wall 14. Its volume is therefore not divided into a main inlet chamber 16 and a secondary inlet chamber 18. The inlet manifold 26 serves both for the inlet of the heat transfer fluid of the main network or high temperature network and the heat transfer fluid of the secondary network or low temperature network, as shown schematically by the arrow 44. In the inlet manifold 8, a part of the fluid enters the bundle tubes 12 connected to the main outlet chamber 22, and the remainder of the fluid enters the part of the bundle tubes 12 connected to the secondary outlet chamber 24.

On the other hand, the outlet manifold 10 is divided into a main exit chamber 22 and a secondary exit chamber by a partition wall 20, in the same manner as in the embodiment of the figure 1 .

We have shown on the figure 3 an alternative embodiment of the heat exchange module shown in the figure 2 . As the embodiment of the Figure 2 , the latter comprises a single inlet pipe 26 connected to the inlet manifold 8 of the main heat exchanger 2. The difference between the two embodiments is due to the fact that the inlet manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 comprises a partition 58 which divides it into a lower chamber 60 and an upper chamber 62. In the same manner, the outlet manifold 36 of the secondary exchanger 6 has a partition wall 64 which divides it into a lower chamber 66 and a superior room 68.

In this way, the heat transfer fluid circulates in the tubes of the beam 38 of the secondary exchanger 6 by performing a series of trips back and forth between the inlet manifold 34 and the outlet manifold 36. These trips and returns are called passes. In the example shown, there are three passes. After entering the lower chamber 60 through the passage opening 32, as shown by the arrow 70, the fluid flows from right to left, according to the figure, to enter the lower chamber 66 of the outlet manifold 36. It is distributed in this chamber and circulates, from left to right according to the figure, in the tubes of the bundle 38 to reach the upper chamber 62 of the inlet manifold 34, then flows again from right to left according to FIG. , as shown schematically by the arrow 74, to enter the upper chamber 68 of the outlet manifold 36. The cold heat transfer fluid then leaves the upper chamber 68 through the outlet pipe 40, as shown schematically by the arrow 52.

In the example shown, the circulation of the coolant in the main radiator or radiator at high temperature is carried out in a single pass. However, it goes without saying that the main radiator could also include partition walls similar to the partitions 58 and 64 so that the circulation of the fluid takes place in several passes. Similarly, the secondary radiator could have more partition walls to increase the number of passes.

We have shown on the figure 4 another alternative embodiment of a heat exchange module 2. It differs from the previous ones, illustrated and described with reference to the Figures 1 to 3 in that the outlet manifold 10 of the main heat exchanger 4 does not have a partition wall which divides its interior volume into two chambers. As a result, the main radiator, or high-temperature radiator 196, merges with the main heat exchanger or high-temperature exchanger 4. in the same way, the secondary radiator 200 merges with the secondary heat exchanger 6.

The circulation of the fluid in this heat exchange module is carried out as follows. The heat transfer fluid of the main circuit enters the inlet manifold 8 of the main heat exchanger 4 through the inlet manifold 80, as shown by the arrow 82. It traverses the tubes of the bundle 12, from left to right according to the figure, to reach the outlet manifold 10 from which it is cooled by the outlet pipe 84, as shown schematically by the arrow 86. The secondary circuit fluid, or circuit at low temperature, enters the manifold 36 of the secondary radiator through the tubing 88, as shown schematically by the arrow 90. It traverses the tubes of the beam 38, from left to right according to the figure, to enter the outlet manifold 34 and out through the manifold 92, as shown schematically by the arrow 94.

There may be no through hole between the main radiator and the secondary radiator. In this case, the flow of fluid between the main network and the secondary network is effected by means of communication external to the heat exchange module, such as valves. The heat exchange module 2 of the Figure 4 may also include a through hole 32 communicating the outlet manifold 10 of the main heat exchanger with the inlet manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger, as shown. The passage opening 32 may be opened or closed by switching means which will be described later. This arrangement makes it possible to vary the exchange capacity of the exchanger by circulating the fluid in all or part of the latter.

We have shown on the figure 5 a fifth variant embodiment of a heat exchange module 2. This embodiment is similar to the embodiment of the Figure 4 in the sense that the outlet manifold of the main heat exchanger 4 does not have a partition partition that divides it into a main exit chamber and a secondary exit chamber. The interior volume of this box is therefore one piece. The circulation of the coolant in the main heat exchanger 4 is therefore carried out in the same manner as in the embodiment shown in FIG. Figure 4 .

The outlet manifold 36 of the main heat exchanger 6 has a partition wall 96 which divides it into a lower chamber 98 and an upper chamber 100. The heat transfer fluid of the low temperature circuit enters the upper chamber 100 through the inlet tubing 102, as shown by the arrow 104. It traverses the upper part of the tubes of the beam, located above the partition wall 96, from left to right according to the figure, to reach the manifold 34 and distributed in the latter, as shown schematically by the arrow 106, then it travels the lower part of the tubes of the beam 38, located below the partition wall 96, from right to left according to the Figure 5 , to return to the lower chamber 98 of the manifold 36. The cooled secondary fluid leaves the lower chamber 98 through the outlet pipe 110, as shown schematically by the arrow 112. The secondary radiator thus comprises two passes. However, it could include more, for example three or four.

The heat exchange module of the figure 5 is further distinguished by the fact that the exchange surfaces 114 in heat exchange relationship with the tubes of the bundle 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 and 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 are constituted by corrugated inserts.

As previously discussed, the passage opening 32 between the header box 10 of the main heat exchanger 4 and the manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 can be opened and closed by switching means. . We have shown on Figures 6 and 7 two embodiments of such switching means. A control member 120 integral with a wall of the inlet manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 actuates a rod 122 which carries a piston 124. When the control member 120 pulls the rod 122, the piston 124 , which comprises a seal, is attracted towards the inlet of the passage opening 32 constituted for example by a tubular spacer 126 and it closes this orifice. On the contrary, when the control member 120 pushes the rod 122, the piston 124 deviates from the opening of the passage opening 32, which allows the circulation of the fluid, as shown schematically by the arrows 128.

On the figure 7 , the embodiment of the control means is identical, except that the piston 124 is located inside the outlet manifold 34 of the secondary heat exchanger 6 instead of being located inside the the outlet manifold 10 of the main heat exchanger 4. Thus, when the control member pushes the piston 124 towards the tubular spacer 126, the through hole 32 is closed. Conversely, when the control member 120 pulls on the rod 122, the piston 124 deviates from the tubular spacer 126, which opens the through hole 32 and allows the passage of the fluid, as shown schematically by the arrows 128 .

There are various technologies for producing heat exchangers for motor vehicles. According to a first technology, the exchangers are assembled in a single operation by soldering. According to another technology, the exchangers are assembled partly by brazing and partly by mechanical means. The heat exchange surfaces in heat exchange relationship with the tubes of the bundle, which may be constituted by corrugated spacers or by flat and thin fins, are then assembled by soldering to the tubes, while the cover of the manifolds is mechanically assembled to the header plate of the exchanger. We have illustrated a mixed assembly mode of this type on Figures 8 to 10 .

The figure 8 represents a thin fin 130 for a module of heat exchange such as those described and represented on the Figures 1 to 5 . The vane 130 is in the form of a very elongated rectangle having two long sides 132 in which are provided elongated cutouts 134 ending in a rounded end for receiving the tubes of the beam 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 and the tubes of the bundle 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6. In addition, the fin 130 has square perforations 136 arranged between the two rows of tubes and intended to limit the thermal bridge between the bundle of tubes 12 and the bundle of tubes 38.

We have shown on the figure 9 a sectional view along line IX of the figure 8 . Collector boxes 8 and 36 (see Figures 1 to 5 ) are made using a single piece 140 having a partition wall 142. The tubes of the bundles 12 and 38 are assembled by soldering in a single operation to the header plate 144. Seals 146 are interposed between the manifold plate 144 and the part 140. The collector plate 144 has a crimped rim 148 folded over the end of the part 140 in order to maintain it sealingly applied against the seals 142. A mechanical assembly of the slip boxes 8 and 36 on the header plate 144.

Note also in this figure the interruption of the surface of the fins 130 at the perforations 136. Note also the presence of the tubes 26 and 40.

We have shown on the figure 10 a sectional view along line X of the figure 8 . This view is identical to the figure 9 , except that the cutting plane does not pass through the indentations 136, so that the surface of the fins 130 is continuous. On the other hand, the sectional plane shows the uninterrupted section of the collector plate 144.

According to yet another technology, the constituent parts of the exchanger can be assembled exclusively by means of mechanical means such as crimping. Such an achievement has been illustrated Figures 11 and 12 . The fin 150 ( figure 11 ) comprises two elongate sides 152 having elliptical perforations 154 flattened for the introduction of the tubes of the beam 12 of the main heat exchanger 4 and the tubes of the bundle 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6. These perforations are completely closed because it is necessary to make thermal contact between the outer wall of the tubes of the bundles 12 and 38 and the fins 150 by flaring the tubes by means of an olive. The fin 150 also has perforations 156 of square shape facing the tubes in order to avoid a thermal bridge between the two exchangers.

On the figure 12 , the manifold plate 158 comprises a seal 160 which makes it possible to form a tight junction with the part 140 in which the manifolds 8 and 36 are formed. The tubes of the bundles 12 and 38 are flared to make thermal contact with the slip plate 158.

We have shown on the figure 13 a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of a heat exchange module 2. The heat exchange module shown comprises a third heat exchanger designated by the general reference 164. This additional heat exchanger is crossed by the same flow air 42 that the secondary heat exchanger 6 and the main heat exchanger 4. In addition, it is located in front of the secondary heat exchanger 6, so that it is cooled first. An additional exchanger such as exchanger 164 is integrated in the heat exchange module 2 when it is desired to cool fluids other than the heat transfer fluid of the main and secondary networks by the ambient air, for example the circulating fluid of the circuit air conditioning if a water condenser is not available in the cooling system. The exchanger 164 could also be a radiator for cooling the lubricating oil of the gearbox or the engine.

The additional exchanger 164 may be provided in any embodiment of a heat module, in particular, in the embodiment of the invention described with reference to FIG. figure 23 where the heat exchange module comprises a main exchanger and two secondary exchangers.

We have shown on the figure 14 a thin planar fin 166 of the brazed type, similar to the fin 130 shown in FIG. figure 8 . The fin 166 is in the form of a very elongated rectangle having two long sides 168 in which are provided elongated cuts and rounded at their ends. However, these cuts are of two types. The cutouts 170 are provided to receive a single row of tubes, namely the tubes of the beam 12 of the main heat exchanger 4. On the contrary, the cutouts 172 are deeper. They are designed to receive two rows of tubes, namely the tubes of the bundle 38 of the secondary heat exchanger 6, and the tubes 174 of the additional exchanger 164. Thus, the fin 166 is common to the three exchangers. It will be noted, moreover, that it comprises square perforations 176 disposed opposite the notches 170 and 172, and intended to avoid, as already explained, a thermal bridge between the rows of tubes.

The heat exchange modules shown in Figures 1 to 14 have only two heat exchangers, namely a main heat exchanger and a secondary heat exchanger while the system according to the invention comprises three, namely a main heat exchanger and two secondary heat exchangers. However, the structure and operation of the main heat exchanger and the structure and operation of the secondary heat exchangers of the system according to the invention may be operating the main and secondary heat exchangers of the preceding heat exchange modules, as developed later in relationship with the figure 23 .

We have shown on the figure 15 a thermal energy management system developed by a thermal engine comprising a heat exchange module 2. This management system consists of a main network, shown schematically by the rectangle in phantom lines 180, and a secondary network, shown schematically by the rectangle in phantom lines 182. The main network 180 comprises an internal combustion engine 186 and a main pump 188 which circulates the heat transfer fluid in the main network, particularly in the engine 186. The main network also comprises a branch on which is mounted a heating radiator 190, also called heater . Optionally, it may also include a bypass on which are mounted heat exchangers which exchange heat with the heat transfer fluid of the main network and which are intended for the cooling of vehicle equipment such as a gas cooler. Exhaust 192 or engine lubricating oil cooler 194. The main network finally comprises a branch on which is mounted the main radiator 196, and a branch pipe 198 which allows to bypass the main radiator 196.

The secondary network 182 consists of a circulation pump 199 which circulates the coolant in the secondary radiator or radiator at low temperature 200. The low temperature network may also optionally include equipment exchangers which serve to cool optional equipment of the vehicle such as a charge air cooler 202 and an air conditioning condenser 204. The passage opening 32 between the radiator 196 and the secondary radiator 200 has been schematized by an arrow.

It will be noted that the references 196 and 200 here designate the main radiator and the secondary radiator, and not the main exchanger 4 and the secondary heat exchanger 6. Indeed, as has been explained above, the main radiator may coincide with the main radiator. main exchanger and likewise the secondary radiator may coincide with the secondary exchangers. However, the secondary radiator 200 is most often constituted by secondary heat exchangers and a heat exchanger. more or less important part of the beam of the main heat exchanger 4, while the main radiator 196 occupies only part of the main heat exchanger 4. The secondary exchangers can communicate with each other, for example, thanks to switching means such as those shown in Figures 6 and 7 .

Interconnection means make it possible to connect the main network 180 and the secondary network 182. In the example shown, these interconnection means consist of a four-way valve 206 and a three-way valve 208.

The heat exchange module 2 used in the thermal energy management system of the figure 15 has a single entry common to the main and secondary networks and two outputs.

It will be noted, in addition, that the main radiator 196 constitutes a common part to the main network 180 and the secondary network 182.

The valve 206 makes it possible to manage the circulation of the coolant in the fan heater 190, in the bypass pipe 198 and the radiator 196.

We have shown on the figure 16 the configuration of the thermal energy management system of the figure 15 in a cold start configuration with heating of the vehicle cabin. In this configuration, the main radiator 196 and the secondary radiator 200 produce cold water to supply the exchangers of the air conditioning condenser type in order to obtain a temperature rise as fast as possible of the heat engine 186, the heat transfer fluid of the circuit. 180 main borrows the bypass line 198 so as to avoid cooling in the main radiator 196.

The figure 17 represents a low load configuration of the thermal motor. The main radiator 196 and the secondary radiator 200 produce cold water to supply the exchangers of the type air conditioning condenser 204 and charge air cooler 202. The heat transfer fluid passes through the two radiators one after the other. The valve 206 regulates the temperature of the engine 186. When the temperature of the latter is lower than a threshold value, for example 100 ° C., the fluid flows through the branch pipe 198. When the engine temperature rises above above this temperature, a certain portion, for example 10 or 20%, of the amount of coolant flowing through the main radiator is introduced into the main network 180 to cool the engine.

The figure 18 represents a high-load configuration of the engine 186. The valve 206 is positioned such that the main radiator 196 produces cold water to cool the engine 186, and the secondary radiator 200 produces cold water to cool the exchangers 202 and 204. It is the four-way valve 206 which regulates the engine temperature by distributing the heat transfer fluid flow rates between the branch pipe 198 and the main radiator 196. This configuration corresponds to a strong engine load in which it is necessary to circulate a large amount of heat transfer fluid to evacuate the thermal power rejected by the latter. This configuration can also be a vehicle that runs in winter with the air conditioning off and when, moreover, we do not want to cool the charge air.

The Figures 19 to 22 illustrate other thermal energy management systems developed by a combustion engine, which are similar to those of the figure 15 . The elements common with those of the figure 15 are designated by the same reference numerals. These different systems have loops that can interact with each other, but these systems could also have loops that do not interact.

The system of figure 19 differs from that of the Figure 15 in that the radiators 196 and 200 do not communicate with each other through a through hole 32. In addition, the locations of the valves 206 and 208 and the pump 199 are different, and another valve 210 is interposed on a pipe between the oil cooler 194 and the main radiator 196.

The system of figure 20 is very close to that of the figure 15 . Also, the radiators 196 and 200 do not communicate with each other. The radiator 200 is connected to the pump 199 by a pipe 212 into which a pipe 214 leads to the valve 208.

The system of figure 21 is close to that of the Figure 15 , but the loops associated with the radiators 196 and 200 are connected to each other only by a common expansion vessel 216. This is connected to the two loops by two lines 218 and 220 which open respectively upstream of the pumps 188 and 199. in the case of Figures 19 and 20 , the radiators 196 and 200 do not communicate with each other through a passage opening 32.

The system of figure 22 is close to that of the figure 21 . But the radiators 196 and 200 communicate with each other through a passage orifice, as symbolized by the arrow. In addition, the common expansion vessel is removed.

We have shown on the figure 23 a heat exchange module, designated by the general reference 250, according to the present invention. The module of the figure 23 differs from the modules described above in that it comprises a second secondary exchanger. It therefore consists of three exchangers, namely a main heat exchanger, designated by the general reference 256, and two secondary heat exchangers, designated by the references 252 and 254. Each heat exchanger has an inlet manifold 261 , an outlet manifold 263 and a circulating tube bundle interposed between the inlet manifold 261 and the outlet manifold 263. Advantageously, the exchangers 252, 254 and 256 may be identical and / or presented 165 common dividers of which only a portion is represented at the figure 23 . The other construction details of the module of the figure 23 are similar to those of the previously described modules.

We have shown on the figure 24 an embodiment of a thermal energy management system developed by a heat engine comprising a heat exchange module 250 according to the present invention. This management system consists of a high temperature circuit 230, shown schematically by a dotted line rectangle, and a low temperature circuit schematized by a dotted line rectangle 240.

In this embodiment, the heat exchange module 250 consists of three rows of tubes, namely a first row of tubes 252, a second row of tubes 254 and a third row of tubes 256. The rank order of tubes 252, 254, 256 is determined relative to the direction of the air flow, shown schematically by the arrow 258, which passes through them. The row of tubes 252 is located upstream with respect to the flow of the air flow. He is crossed first and enjoys the lowest air temperature. The row of tubes 254 is traversed by the flow of air which has heated in contact with the tubes of the first row 252. It is therefore less well cooled than the first row. Finally, the third row of tubes (256) is the most badly cooled since the air has already passed through the first two rows 254 and 256 and has therefore warmed to their contact. As a result, the cooling fluid circulating in the first row of tubes 252 will be better cooled than the fluid flowing in the second row of tubes 254, which itself will be better cooled than the coolant passing through the third row of tubes. 256.

In this embodiment, the input manifolds 261 and output boxes 263 are not divided. Accordingly, each of the rows of tubes 252, 254 and 256 constitutes a exchanger. These three references thus designate both an exchanger and a row of tubes. Consequently, the heat exchange module 250 consists of three superimposed exchangers, through which the same airflow passes. The exchangers may have fins or common tabs 165 that make the module is physically linked. The same cooling fluid, namely the engine coolant, circulates in the three exchangers 252, 254 and 256.

Part of the exchange module 250 is part of the high temperature circuit 230, namely the exchangers 254 and 256, while the exchanger 252 is part of the low temperature circuit 240.

The high temperature circuit 230 further comprises, as previously described, an internal combustion engine 186 and a main pump 188 which circulates a coolant in the high temperature circuit. It also comprises a bypass on which is mounted a heater 188. It further comprises a four-way valve 260. An inlet channel is connected to the output of the engine 186, an outlet channel to the heater 190, a second output channel to the exchanger 254 and a fourth channel, constituting a third output channel, is connected to the exchanger 256. A charge air cooler 202 is connected in series with the second-row heat exchanger 254.

The low temperature circuit 240 includes an electric circulation pump 199 which circulates the coolant coolant of the engine in the exchanger 252 which thus constitutes a radiator at low temperature. The low temperature radiator 252 is connected in series with a condenser 204 forming part of an air conditioning circuit of the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.

In this embodiment the exchangers 254 and 256 are permanently part of the high temperature circuit, while the exchanger 252 is permanently part of the low temperature circuit.

We have shown on the figure 25 an alternative embodiment not in accordance with the invention of the thermal energy management system shown in FIG. figure 23 . This system is constituted, like that of the figure 23 , a high temperature circuit, designated by the reference 270, and a low temperature circuit, designated by the reference 280. The heat exchange module 290, like the module 250, consists of three rows of tubes, designated by the references 252, 254 and 256, constituting three superimposed heat exchangers and traversed by the same air stream 258. However, in this embodiment, the exchangers of ranks 1 and 2, namely the exchangers 252 and 254 are part of the low temperature circuit 280, while the rank exchanger 3, in other words the exchanger 256, is only part of the high temperature cooling circuit 270. In addition to the motor 286, the circulation pump and the heater 188, the high temperature circuit 256 comprises a three-way valve 262. The inlet is connected to the output of the engine coolant 186. An output of the valve 262 is directed on the heater 188, while than the other exit brings the fluid to the inlet of the exchanger 256.

The exchanger 252 of rank 1 is connected in series with a condenser 204, forming part of the air conditioning circuit d the cabin of a motor vehicle, while the exchanger 254 of rank 2 is connected in series with a cooler d ' Charge air 202. The exchangers 252 and 254 and the equipment with which they are connected in series form part of the low temperature cooling circuit. In this management system, as in that represented on the figure 24 , the links are fixed. In other words, the exchanger 254 is still part of the low temperature circuit 280, without being attributable to the high temperature circuit 270.

Claims (4)

1. System for managing the thermal energy developed by a motor vehicle combustion engine, comprising a high-temperature circuit (230) equipped with a main pump (188) for circulating a heat transfer fluid between the combustion engine (186) and a high-temperature main exchanger (256) that exchanges heat with external atmospheric air, the high-temperature circuit (230) further comprising a heating pipe comprising a unit heater (190), and a low-temperature circuit (240) including a first secondary heat exchanger (252) and a secondary pump (199), the said system further comprising a second secondary heat exchanger (254) mounted in series with a supercharging charge-air cooler (202), the second secondary exchanger (254) and the supercharging charge-air cooler forming part of the high-temperature circuit (230), the said heat transfer fluid being the same in both circuits, the main exchanger (256) and the secondary exchangers (252; 254) forming part of a heat exchange module (250), the said main heat exchanger (256) and the said two secondary heat exchangers (252, 254) each having an inlet header box (261) and an outlet header box (263), the said main and secondary heat exchangers each further comprising a bundle of tubes (12, 38, 39) through which the said heat transfer fluid flows, heat exchange surfaces (165) in a heat exchange relationship with the tubes of the bundle, the said main exchanger and the said secondary exchangers being arranged in such a way that their bundle of tubes has the same air flow (258) passing through them.
2. Thermal energy management system according to Claim 1, characterized in that the said main heat exchanger (256) of the said module and the said secondary exchangers (252, 254) of the said module form a unit mechanical assembly.
3. Thermal energy management system according to Claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the said module comprises a fourth heat exchanger (164) belonging to a separate cooling circuit and through which there flows a cycle fluid different from the heat transfer cycle fluid of the main exchanger (256) and of the two secondary exchangers (252, 254).
4. Thermal energy management system according to Claims 1 to 3, characterized in that the secondary exchanger of the low-temperature circuit (252) is mounted in series with a condenser (204) that forms part of an air-conditioning circuit for the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle.

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