EP4172547B1 - Heat exchanger - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to the field of heat exchangers, in particular intended to equip air conditioning systems and/or cooling systems of motor vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to a heat exchanger as defined by the preamble of claim 1, and as disclosed by WO 2018/046451 .

In the automotive field, it is common to have to modify the temperature of a component, such as an electric motor, a battery, a device for storing calories and/or frigories or the like. For this purpose, the motor vehicle is equipped with a heat exchanger which comprises a heat exchange bundle within which a refrigerant fluid and a heat transfer fluid circulate. More precisely, the heat exchange bundle comprises a plurality of plates stacked on top of each other. The plurality of plates then participates in delimiting a plurality of channels in which the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid circulate so that they are capable of carrying out a heat exchange with one another within the heat exchange bundle. heat. In order to convey the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid within the heat exchange bundle, at least one connection block is secured to the heat exchange bundle, such that it is in fluid communication with the plurality of channels of the heat exchange bundle.

We understand from the above that the connection between the connection block and the heat exchange bundle needs to be sealed so that the power supply to the channels of the heat exchange bundle is optimal. To do this, at least one filler material is installed between the connection block and the heat exchange bundle so that it melts during a brazing operation to create adhesion between the two parts and that It thus ensures the seal between the connection block and the harness. When manufacturing this type of heat exchanger, the installation of the filler material must be particularly careful, because we understand on the one hand that the absence of filler material, for example by forgetting a operator, prevents the parts from being fixed during brazing, and on the other hand that such an installation lacking precision can generate during brazing poor adhesion of the parts to each other. In each case, this can result in sealing problems with the heat exchanger.

The aim of the present invention is therefore to remedy the problems mentioned above by making it possible, using a simple means, to check the tightness between the connection block and the heat exchange bundle. In this way, we optimize the reliability of the heat exchanger as well as its lifespan within a motor vehicle.

The invention therefore relates to a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle comprising a heat exchange bundle and at least one fluid connection block allowing the entry and/or exit of at least one fluid into the heat exchange bundle. heat exchange, the heat exchange bundle comprising a plurality of plates stacked on top of each other such that they delimit between them a plurality of circulation channels for the at least one fluid, each plate comprising a wall circulation surrounded by a falling peripheral edge which extends the circulation wall opposite the fluidic connection block, an end plate arranged at the top of the stack being configured to cooperate with the at least one fluidic connection block , the end plate comprising at least one opening for fluid communication between the heat exchange bundle and the fluid connection block arranged to cover the at least one opening, said at least one opening being delimited by a collar which extends projecting from the end plate opposite the heat exchange bundle, the fluidic connection block comprising a groove intended to receive the collar of the end plate,
characterized in that the at least one opening delimited by a collar is formed in a corner of the end plate such that a part of the fluid connection block, comprising at least a first angular part of the groove, is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate.

The heat exchanger may be a heat exchanger configured for cooling at least one component of a motor vehicle, such as as an electrical storage device and can also equip an air conditioning system of said motor vehicle.

The plurality of channels provided by the stacking of the plates of the heat exchange bundle ensures the circulation of a heat transfer fluid and a refrigerant fluid within said heat exchange bundle. More precisely, the channels are provided in the heat exchange bundle in such a way that they allow the circulation of the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid alternately, in order to allow thermal exchanges between these two fluids. We therefore understand that part of the channels is arranged for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid and that another part of the channels is arranged for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid.

The fluidic connection block then allows the entry or exit of the heat transfer fluid or the refrigerant fluid into the heat exchange bundle. To this end, the end plate of the heat exchange bundle includes the opening delimited by the collar which contributes to a tight connection and optimal positioning of the connection block on the end plate during the manufacture of the 'heat exchanger. More precisely, the opening surrounded by the collar is provided in one of the corners of the end plate such that the part of the connection block is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate . In other words, the groove formed in the fluidic connection block is not entirely covered by the circulation wall of the end plate and said groove is partially open to the outside of the heat exchange bundle, at the level of its first angular part.

Advantage is taken of such a configuration of the opening and the connection block, in particular in that it facilitates the verification of the tightness between said connection block on the one hand and the opening and the associated collar of on the other hand, at the level of the first angular part of the throat which is in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the invention, the at least part of the connection block faces a portion of the peripheral edge falling from the end plate. The part of the fluid connection block which is not not covered by the circulation wall of the end plate is however arranged so as not to extend laterally beyond the overall envelope defined by the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the invention, the at least part of the connection block and a portion of the peripheral edge falling from the end plate are arranged relative to each other so that their respective projections on a main elongation plane of the circulation wall of the end plate are noticeably confused.

According to an example of the invention, the connection block comprises at least one channel which allows the passage of fluid through the connection block from or to the heat exchange bundle, the groove of the connection block being formed concentrically around of said channel.

It is understood that the channel of the connection block allows the passage of the heat transfer fluid or the refrigerant fluid through the connection block for the supply of fluid within the channels of the heat exchange bundle.

According to an example of the invention, the groove of the connection block is delimited laterally by an internal peripheral wall and an external peripheral wall having between them a spacing of a value greater than the value of the thickness of the collar of the opening.

We understand from this structural characteristic that the collar is not inserted by force into the groove of the connection block during the manufacture of the heat exchanger. This makes it possible in particular to ensure that the collar is pushed far enough into the groove so that the connection can be made watertight.

The collar is in contact with at least the internal peripheral wall of the groove of the connection block, at least at the level of the first angular part of the groove. In this way, the first angular part of the groove is allowed to be in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the invention, the internal peripheral wall of the connection block helps to laterally delimit the groove and the channel of said connection block.

According to an example of the invention, the internal peripheral wall of the groove is at least partly in contact with the collar of the opening and the external peripheral wall of the groove is at a non-zero radial distance from the collar of the opening.

According to an example of the invention, the internal peripheral wall of the groove is entirely in contact with the collar of the opening and the external peripheral wall of the groove comprises a first angular portion in contact with the circulation wall of the plate. end and a second angular portion, forming the part of the fluidic connection block offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate, one end face of which facing the heat exchange bundle is free of any contact. It is then understood that an internal diameter of the collar and an external diameter of the internal peripheral wall are substantially identical, such that the entire collar is in contact with the internal peripheral wall of the groove.

It should be noted that the second angular portion of the external peripheral wall corresponds to the first angular part of the groove which communicates with the exterior of the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the invention, the internal peripheral wall of the groove and the external peripheral wall of the groove define between them a space in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger.

We then understand that the space of the groove, at the level of the first angular part of this groove and therefore in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger, facilitates the verification on the one hand of the presence of a filler material in the groove of the connection block and on the other hand the tightness of the connection between the connection block and the opening of the end plate at the end of the brazing of the housed filler material in the groove of the connection block.

According to an example of the invention, at least one filler material is placed in the groove of the connection block.

The function of the filler material is to participate in the sealing between the connection block and the opening of the end plate, by deformation by fusion and adhesion during a brazing operation of the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the invention, the groove comprises a bottom wall connecting the internal peripheral wall and the external peripheral wall, the at least one filler material being placed near the bottom wall.

According to an example of the invention, the filler material is in contact with the collar. In this way, optimal sealing is ensured between the connection block and the opening of the end plate of the heat exchange bundle at the end of the brazing operation of the heat exchanger. The filler material can in particular be interposed between the collar and the bottom wall.

According to an example of the invention, the at least one fluidic connection block is configured to cover two openings formed in the end plate each in a corner of the end plate of the heat exchange bundle, this block of connection comprising two distinct channels with a groove formed concentrically around each of the channels and capable of cooperating with a collar arranged around one of the openings.

It is understood here that the end plate comprises at least a first opening and a second opening, each provided at a corner of the end plate. More precisely, the first opening and the second opening are both delimited by a collar and are each provided in a corner of the end plate such that a first part and a second part of the connection block fluidic, each comprising a first angular part respectively of a first groove and a second groove, are offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of said end plate.

According to an example of the invention, four fluid connection blocks allowing the entry and/or exit of the fluid into the heat exchange bundle are arranged at each of the corners of the end plate of said heat exchange bundle, each of the connection blocks being overlapping at least one opening delimited by a collar of the end plate and each of the connection blocks comprising a part offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate.

According to an example of the invention, the part of each of the connection blocks which is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate of the heat exchange bundle is facing the falling peripheral edge of said plate end.

The invention also relates to a method of manufacturing a heat exchanger according to any of the preceding characteristics, comprising at least one preliminary assembly step during which the connection block is fixed on the end plate of the heat exchange bundle such that at least part of the connection block is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall of the end plate, a brazing step during which the brazing of the heat exchange beam and each connection block, and a subsequent sealing check step during which the first angular part of the groove offset laterally from the circulation wall of the end plate is used in order to stress at least one filler material provided between the connection block and the end plate.

It is understood that the subsequent step of checking the tightness is implemented due to the particular structure of the heat exchanger previously described, and in particular the part of the connection block, comprising the first angular part of the groove , which is offset laterally and therefore accessible from outside the heat exchanger.

According to an example of the method, during the assembly step, a crimping operation is carried out to fix the position of each connection block covering the at least one opening formed in the end plate.

According to an example of the method, a brazing ring is placed in the groove of the connection block before mounting the collar of the end plate in this groove during the preliminary assembly step.

According to an alternative method, a liquid filler material is distributed, for example by injection, in the groove of the connection block after mounting the collar of the end plate in this groove during the preliminary assembly step .

According to an example of the method, between the preliminary assembly step and the brazing step, the plates intended to form the heat exchange bundle are stacked on top of each other, the end plate being arranged at the top of the stack of plates.

According to an example of the method, the subsequent step of checking the tightness consists of a first sub-step of injecting a flow, for example of compressed air or helium, via the first angular part of the groove offset laterally to stress the area in which the filler material was originally present before the brazing operation.

We understand from this first sub-step that the use of the compressed air flow makes it possible to stress the area in which the filler material must be fused, in order to test the reliability of the seal. In other words, the compressed air flow is sent to the area in which the filler material, brazing ring or injected liquid filler material, was present before the brazing operation, in order to ensure that it it has merged well with the collar of the opening of the end plate and at least the internal peripheral wall of the groove and possibly with the bottom wall of said groove. In this first sub-step, we thus ensure in particular that the filler material has been properly fused and that it is not only stuck to the connection block and to the collar, which would present an unreliable fixation in the time and presenting the risk of loss of tightness in the medium term.

According to an example of the method, the subsequent tightness control step comprises a second sub-step carried out following the first sub-step and during which a fluid is circulated through the fluid connection block and the heat exchange bundle.

In this way we ensure that the seal between the connection block and the opening of the end plate, implemented by the brazed filler material, was correctly carried out during the manufacture of the exchanger. heat. In other words, we check that the fluid does not escape from the heat exchanger at the level of the groove of the connection block, by means of the part of the connection block which includes the first angular part of the groove which is accessible from the external environment of said heat exchanger.

The invention also relates to a thermal system of a motor vehicle comprising at least one heat exchanger according to any of the preceding characteristics.

• [fig 1] est une vue schématique en perspective d'un échangeur de chaleur selon l'invention ;
• [fig 2] est une vue schématique en coupe suivant un plan vertical et longitudinal de l'échangeur de chaleur de la figure 1 ;
• [fig 3] est une vue en coupe suivant un plan vertical et longitudinal représentant partiellement l'échangeur de chaleur de la figure 1, et rendant notamment visibles un bloc de raccordement fluidique et une partie d'un empilement de plaques formant le corps de l'échangeur de chaleur selon un premier mode de réalisation de l'invention ;
• [fig 4] est une vue en perspective, de dessous, du bloc de raccordement fluidique de la figure 3 montrant une partie dudit bloc de raccordement qui est décalée latéralement par rapport à un empilement de plaques formant le corps de l'échangeur de chaleur ;
• [fig 5] est une représentation partielle de l'échangeur de chaleur, en vue de dessous, montrant le bloc de raccordement fluidique disposé en recouvrement d'une ouverture d'une plaque d'extrémité de l'échangeur de chaleur, la plaque d'extrémité étant ici en transparence et représentée en traits pointillés ;
• [fig 6] est une vue éclatée de l'échangeur de chaleur de la figure 1 montrant le bloc de raccordement fluidique, ainsi que la plaque d'extrémité et une pluralité de plaques formant le corps de l'échangeur de chaleur ;
• [fig 7] est une vue schématique en perspective de l'échangeur de chaleur comprenant un bloc de raccordement fluidique selon un deuxième mode de réalisation de l'invention.

Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear further through the description which follows on the one hand, and several examples of embodiment given for informational and non-limiting purposes with reference to the appended schematic drawings on the other hand, in which :

• [ fig 1 ] is a schematic perspective view of a heat exchanger according to the invention;
• [ fig 2 ] is a schematic sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane of the heat exchanger of the figure 1 ;
• [ fig 3 ] is a sectional view along a vertical and longitudinal plane partially representing the heat exchanger of the figure 1 , and making visible in particular a fluid connection block and part of a stack of plates forming the body of the heat exchanger according to a first embodiment of the invention;
• [ fig 4 ] is a perspective view, from below, of the fluidic connection block of the Figure 3 showing a part of said connection block which is offset laterally relative to a stack of plates forming the body of the heat exchanger;
• [ fig 5 ] is a partial representation of the heat exchanger, seen from below, showing the fluidic connection block arranged to cover an opening of an end plate of the heat exchanger, the end plate being here in transparency and represented in dotted lines;
• [ fig 6 ] is an exploded view of the heat exchanger of the figure 1 showing the fluid connection block, as well as the end plate and a plurality of plates forming the body of the heat exchanger;
• [ fig 7 ] is a schematic perspective view of the heat exchanger comprising a fluid connection block according to a second embodiment of the invention.

It should first be noted that if the figures present the invention in detail for its implementation, they can of course be used to better define the invention if necessary. It should also be noted that, in all of the figures, similar elements and/or fulfilling the same function are indicated by the same numbering.

In the description which follows, a direction of a longitudinal axis L, a direction of a transverse axis T, and a direction of a vertical axis V are represented by a trihedron (L, V, T) in the figures. A horizontal plane is defined as being a plane perpendicular to the vertical axis, a longitudinal plane as being a plane perpendicular to the transverse axis, and a transverse plane as being a plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis.

There figure 1 shows in perspective a heat exchanger 1 according to the invention which is configured to implement an exchange of calories between a heat transfer fluid and a refrigerant fluid. More particularly, the heat exchanger consists of a plate exchanger comprising a stack of plates one on top of the other, and between which the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid alternately circulate. The heat transfer fluid may in particular consist of glycol water. The refrigerant fluid is for example carbon dioxide or a refrigerant known by the acronym R134A or 1234YF.

Such a heat exchanger 1 is arranged at the crossroads of two fluid circulation loops, at least one of which is also intended for the thermal regulation of a passenger compartment of the vehicle, or for the thermal regulation of a component of the vehicle. vehicle, whether it consists for example and without limitation of an electrical or electronic component, or of a motorization element of the vehicle.

In reference to the figure 1 , the heat exchanger 1 comprises a heat exchange bundle 2 and at least one fluidic connection block 4, said heat exchange bundle being intended to be connected, where appropriate by this connection block, to fluid inlet and outlet pipes not shown here.

The heat exchange bundle 2 is formed by a stack of plates 6, stacked one on top of the other along a stacking direction E, parallel to the vertical axis V. The heat exchanger 1, and therefore the bundle 2 comprises a first longitudinal end 8 and a second longitudinal end 10 opposite the first longitudinal end 8 along the longitudinal axis L. The heat exchanger 1, and therefore the bundle 2, comprises a first transverse end 12 and a second transverse end 14 opposite the first transverse end 12 along the transverse axis T.

The bundle 2 comprises a first end plate 20 and a second end plate 22 which are distinguished from the other plates of the stack of plates 6 in that they delimit this stack, and therefore the bundle 2, along the stacking direction E. The first end plate 20 is defined as the plate comprising inlet openings 32 and outlet openings 34 for the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid, which will be described in more detail below .

All of the plates 6 of the bundle 2 thus stacked in the stacking direction E are brazed with each other in order to ensure the sealing of said bundle 2. More precisely, the plates 6 of the bundle 2 are brazed between each other. they in order to ensure the sealing of the heat transfer fluid path and the refrigerant fluid path, both provided in the bundle 2 by means of a plurality of channels 26. In the same operation brazing, the at least one connection block 4 is also brazed on the bundle 2, and more precisely on the first end plate 20 comprising the inlet openings 32 and the outlet openings 34. More precisely, the at least one connection block 4 is brazed to the right of one of the openings 32, 34 of the first end plate 20, with a filler material 64, visible on the figure 2 in its configuration before brazing, which is intended to be fused between said connection block 4 and said first end plate 20 to ensure the fixing of the parts to each other and in particular to ensure sealing between these parts.

As visible on the figures 1 and 2 , each plate 6 of the heat exchange bundle 2 comprises a circulation wall 16, substantially flat and extending in the horizontal plane defined arbitrarily previously, surrounded by a peripheral edge 18 falling which extends the circulation wall 16 to the opposite the first end plate 20, and the at least one fluidic connection block 4 that this first end plate carries.

The plates 6 are arranged between these two end plates 20, 22 forming a beam body 24 and delimiting the plurality of channels 26. More precisely, the plates 6 of the beam body 24 delimit at least a plurality of first channels 26a and a plurality of second channels 26b configured to be traversed respectively by the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid.

As is visible in the figure 2 showing a sectional view along the longitudinal plane AA visible at the figure 1 , two immediately adjacent plates 6 define a first channel 26a, in which the heat transfer fluid can circulate, or a second channel 26b, in which the refrigerant fluid can circulate.

In the stack, from the first end plate 20 to the second end plate 22, the first channels 26a, arranged for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, alternate with the second channels 26b arranged for the circulation of the refrigerant fluid. Thus, a first plate 6 helps to delimit the circulation of the heat transfer fluid in collaboration with a second adjacent plate 6, and helps to delimit the circulation of the refrigerant fluid in collaboration with a third adjacent plate 6. The same plate 6 is thus on one side in contact with the heat transfer fluid and on the other side in contact with the refrigerant fluid. We then understand that such a structure of the first channels 26a and the second channels 26b of the heat exchange bundle 2 allows thermal exchanges between the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid as mentioned previously.

In order to circulate the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid respectively in each of the first channels 26a and in each of the second channels 26b, collectors 28, represented schematically on the figure 1 in dotted lines, are provided in the volume of the heat exchange beam 2. More particularly, the collectors 28 are produced in the heat exchange bundle 2 by the stacking, in the stacking direction E, of openings 30 formed in each of the plates 6 of the bundle body 24 and partly visible from there figure 2 . In the example illustrated, each of the plates 6 of the beam body 24 comprises four openings 30 each formed at each of the corners of the circulation wall 16 of said plates 6. The alignment of the openings 30 formed in a corresponding corner of each of the plates 6 then delimits a volume forming a collector whose main direction of elongation is parallel to the stacking direction E of the plates 6.

The heat exchange bundle 2 then comprises two inlet collectors and two outlet collectors to allow the passage of each of the fluids through the heat exchanger.

In the example illustrated, the heat exchange bundle comprises a first inlet collector 28a and a first outlet collector 28b arranged at the first longitudinal end 8 of the heat exchanger 1. More precisely, the first inlet collector 28a is arranged in the corner corresponding to the angle of the first longitudinal end 8 and the first transverse end 12 and this first inlet collector 28a allows the entry of the heat transfer fluid into each of the first channels 26a of heat exchange beam 2. The first outlet collector 28b is arranged in the corner corresponding to the angle of the first longitudinal end 8 and the second transverse end 14 of the heat exchanger 1 and this first outlet collector 28b allows the exit of the heat transfer fluid from each of the first channels 26a of heat exchange beam 2. It is then understood that the heat transfer fluid presents a U-shaped circulation in each of the first channels 26a in order to connect the first inlet collector 28a and the first outlet collector 28b, that is to say a circulation going in a first direction towards the second longitudinal end 10 of the bundle, along the first transverse end 12, then in a second direction returning towards the first longitudinal end 8 and the outlet collector, this time along the second transverse end 14.

In the same way, the heat exchange bundle 2 comprises a second inlet collector 28c and a second outlet collector 28d arranged at the second longitudinal end 10. More precisely, the second inlet collector 28c is arranged at the angle of the second longitudinal end 10 and the first transverse end 12 and allows the entry of the refrigerant fluid into each of the second channels 26b of the heat exchange bundle 2. The second outlet collector 28d is arranged at the angle of the second longitudinal end 10 and the second transverse end 14 and allows the refrigerant fluid to exit from each of the second channels 26b of the heat exchange bundle 2. We then understand that, by analogy with what has been described for the circulation of the heat transfer fluid, the refrigerant fluid presents a U-shaped circulation within each of the second channels 26b of the heat beam 2 in order to connect the second inlet collector 28c and the second output collector 28d.

As is particularly visible in figures 1 and 2 , the first end plate 20 comprises inlet openings 32 and outlet openings 34 for the heat transfer fluid and the refrigerant fluid. A first intake opening 32a, visible at the figure 2 , is formed in the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, such that it is in line with the first inlet collector 28a and forms the inlet orifice of the heat transfer fluid in the first inlet collector 28a and therefore in the first channels 26a of the heat exchange bundle 2.

A first outlet opening, not visible, is provided in the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, such that it is in line with the first outlet collector 28b and forms the fluid outlet orifice. heat carrier of the first outlet collector 28b and therefore of the first channels 26a of the heat exchange bundle.

A second intake opening 32b, particularly visible at the figure 1 , is formed in the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, such that it is in line with the second inlet collector 28c and forms the inlet orifice for the refrigerant fluid in the second collector d 'inlet 28c and therefore in the second channels 26b of the heat exchange beam 2.

A second exit opening 34b, visible at the figure 1 , is formed in the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 such that it is in line with the second outlet collector 28d and forms the outlet orifice for the refrigerant fluid from the second outlet collector 28d and the second channels 26b of heat exchange beam 2.

According to an exemplary embodiment of the invention, at least one of the inlet openings 32 and/or outlet 34 is delimited by a collar 36. According to the exemplary embodiment illustrated, all of the inlet openings 32 and outlet openings 34 of the first end plate 20 are delimited by a collar 36. More precisely, each of the collars 36 extends projecting from the first end plate 20 opposite the beam 2 of heat exchange. The collar 36 notably allows the connection of the inlet openings 32 and the outlet openings 34 of the first end plate 20 with a fluid inlet and outlet pipe, here not shown, where appropriate via at least a fluidic connection block 4.

According to the example of embodiment of the invention illustrated on the figure 1 , the heat exchanger 1 comprises a first connection block 4a and a second connection block 4b arranged overlapping respectively of the first inlet opening 32a and the first outlet opening. The first connection block 4a and the second connection block 4b each comprise a channel 38 which extends in the vertical direction V of the heat exchanger 1 and passes through either side of the connection blocks 4 along said vertical direction V such that it allows the passage of the fluid, here the heat transfer fluid, through the connection blocks 4 from or to the heat exchange bundle 2. The first connection block 4a then has the function of connecting the first channels 26a with an intake pipe, not visible, ensuring the supply of heat transfer fluid to the first channels 26a by means of channel 38. The second connection block 4b has the function of allowing the evacuation of the heat transfer fluid outside the heat exchange bundle 2, via a non-visible outlet pipe, once it has circulated in the first channels 26a, by means of the channel 38.

It is understood that, without departing from the context of the invention, the second inlet opening 32b and the second outlet opening 34b can be connected directly to refrigerant fluid inlet and outlet pipes, or else be fluidly connected to connection blocks, not illustrated, similar or different to what has just been described for the first connection block 4a and the second connection block 4b.

The fluid connection between the first connection block 4a and the first inlet opening 32a will now be described in more detail with reference to the figures 3 to 5 . It should be considered that the structural and functional characteristics of the first connection block 4a and the first inlet opening 32a also apply to the second connection block 4b and the first outlet opening. To this end, in the remainder of the description, the term connection block 4 will be used to name the first connection block 4a and the second connection block 4b when the characteristics apply to both of said connection block 4. Likewise, the term first opening 32a will be used in the remainder of the description to name the first inlet opening 32a and the first outlet opening when the characteristics apply to one or other of said first openings 32a.

Each connection block 4 has the shape of a parallelepiped, substantially rectangular, in which a first end face 52 and a second end face 54 are defined, opposite each other in the vertical direction V. along which the channel 38 formed in the connection block extends. The first end face 52 is then the face of the connection block 4 facing the heat exchange bundle 2, brought into contact with the first end plate 20, while the second end face 54 is the face facing away from heat exchange beam 2. Channel 38 extends over the entire vertical dimension of the connection block, opening onto both the first end face and the second end face.

According to the invention, the connection block 4 comprises at least one groove 40 intended to receive the collar 36 associated with the first opening 32a of the first end plate 20. The groove 40 of the connection block 4 is formed in the volume of said connection block 4 from its first end face 52, that is to say that the groove 40 is turned towards the first end plate 20. The groove 40 is delimited laterally by an internal peripheral wall 42 and a external peripheral wall 44 connected to each other by a bottom wall 46. The groove 40 is formed concentrically around the channel 38 of the connection block 4, such that the internal peripheral wall 42 participates in delimiting laterally the both the groove 40 and the channel 38 of said connection block 4.

According to the invention and as is particularly visible at the figure 4 , the connection block 4 is arranged to cover the first opening 32a of the first end plate 20 such that a part 48 of said connection block 4, comprising a first angular part 50 of the groove 40, is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of said first end plate 20.

The collar 36 of the first opening 32a is arranged in one of the corners of the first end plate 20 sufficiently close to the edge peripheral 18 of said first end plate 20, so that the connection block 4 partially projects beyond the circulation wall 16 and such that the groove 40 of the connection block 4 is partially open, at the level of its first angular part 50, on an external environment of the heat exchanger 1.

Advantage is taken of such an arrangement in that it makes it easier for an operator to verify on the one hand the presence in the groove 40 of a filler material 64, before the brazing operation of the heat exchanger 1, and on the other hand the seal between the connection block 4 and the first end plate 20 at the end of the brazing step, as will be detailed below.

Thus, it must be understood that the structural characteristics of the connection block 4 and the first opening 32a which follow allow the implementation of the invention, that is to say the advantageous positioning of the connection block 4 in overlapping of the first opening 32a with the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 which is open to the outside of the heat exchanger, and therefore visible to an operator.

As illustrated on the Figure 3 , we define a spacing D provided between the internal peripheral wall 42 and the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove 40, the spacing D then being of a non-zero value. In other words, this spacing D corresponds to the width of the groove measured in the horizontal plane. We also define a thickness P of the collar 36 associated with the first opening, also measured in a horizontal plane, that is to say along a straight line perpendicular to the stacking direction E of the plates 6 of the heat exchange bundle 2. According to the invention, the value of the spacing D is strictly greater than the value of the thickness P of the collar 36.

We understand from this characteristic that, when the heat exchanger is assembled, the collar 36 is received in the groove 40 of the connection block 4 such that it is in contact with the internal peripheral wall 42 at least at the level of the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 which is open to the outside of the heat exchanger.

Thus and as visible at the Figure 3 , the internal peripheral wall 42 which extends at the level of the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 is in contact with the collar 36 of the first opening 32a while the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove 40 is at a radial distance R non-zero of the collar 36 of the first opening 32a. It is understood that thus, a clearance is provided between the collar 36 and the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove at least at the level of the first angular part 50 of the groove 40. In this way, the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 is in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger.

In the example illustrated on the figure 5 , an internal diameter of the collar 36 and an external diameter of the internal peripheral wall 42 of the groove 40 are substantially identical. In this way, the entire collar 36 is in contact with the internal peripheral wall 42 of the groove 40.

There is a first angular portion 56 of the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove 40 and a second angular portion 58 of the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove 40.

The first angular portion 56 of the external peripheral wall 44 is in contact with the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, and this first angular portion 56 then corresponds to the part of the connection block 4 whose first face d The end 52 is in contact with the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20.

The second angular portion 58 of the external peripheral wall 44 is free from any contact with the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 and therefore corresponds to the part 48 of the connection block 4, comprising the first angular part 50 of the groove 40, which is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20. The first end face 52 of the part 48 of the connection block 4 which is offset laterally relative to the wall circulation 16 of the first end plate 20 is free from any contact with any element of the heat exchanger 1.

Thus, as is visible to figures 4 And 5 , the part 48 of the connection block 4 comprising the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 is not in contact with the circulation wall 16 but is facing a portion of the peripheral edge 18 falling from the first end plate 20. More particularly, the part 48 of the connection block 4 comprising the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 and the peripheral edge 18 falling from the first end plate 20 are arranged relative to each other in such a way that their respective projection on the horizontal plane are substantially coincident.

It is understood from the above that part 48 of the connection block 4, in which the first end face 52 is free from any contact with the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, is both clear laterally of the circulation wall and is also included in a cylindrical envelope of vertical axis delimiting the heat exchanger 1. In other words, this part 48 of the connection block 4 is offset laterally at most up to the right of a free end 60 of the peripheral edge 18 falling from the first end plate 20.

Advantage is taken of all of the preceding characteristics in that a space 62 formed by the spacing D between the external peripheral wall 44 and the internal peripheral wall 42 of the groove 40, is in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger 1. In this way, access is facilitated to the contact zone between the collar 36 associated with the first opening 32a and the internal peripheral wall 42 of the groove 40 of the connection block 4. Verification of the manufacture of the connection block 4 on the first opening 32a of the first end plate 20, and in particular the quality and tightness of the brazing of the connection block 4 on the first end plate 20, can thus be facilitated by this access to the contact zone via the first part of the groove 50.

The filler material 64 is placed in the groove 40 of the connection block 4, and in particular in the space 62 of said groove 40. It should be understood, as mentioned previously, that the filler material 64 is visible on THE figure 2 And 3 in an original configuration, here in the form of brazing ring, before it is fused to secure the connection block 4 on the first end plate 20.

The filler material 64 is provided near the bottom wall 46 of the groove 40, such that it is interposed between the collar 36 of the first opening 32a and the bottom wall 46 of the groove 40. The filler material 64 is at least in contact with the collar 36 associated with the first opening 32a and with the internal peripheral wall 42 of the groove 40. This allows, during the deformation of the filler material 64 during the operation of brazing the heat exchanger 1, to fuse together the connection block 4 and the end plate of the heat exchange bundle via the collar, and to ensure optimal sealing between these two components. The filler material 64 may be, in a non-limiting manner, a brazing ring 64a, visible on the figure 2 And 3 , positioned in the groove prior to the assembly of the connection block 4 on the first end plate 20, or else a liquid filler material 64b, intended to be injected, via the first part 50 of the groove 40, into this groove 40 once the connection block 4 is in position on the first end plate 20.

It is then understood that the space 62 between the internal peripheral wall 42 and the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove 40 which is in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger 1 allows access at least in part to the material input 64 by an operator. This allows verification of the presence and/or correct position of the filler material 64 within the groove 40 of the connection block 4. In other words, a visual check of the presence and/or correct position of the brazing ring 64a or liquid filler material 64b can be carried out by an operator prior to the brazing operation of the heat exchanger 1.

In a complementary manner, the space 62 between the internal peripheral wall 42 and the external peripheral wall 44 of the groove allows the verification of the tightness between the connection block 4 and the first end plate 20, at the end of the brazing operation of the latter, in particular by injecting a fluid into the heat exchanger. This ensures that the fluid injected into the heat exchanger does not escape from beam 2, in checking more particularly whether no leak occurs at the level of the first angular part 50 of the groove 40.

A method of manufacturing the heat exchanger 1 will now be described in relation to the Figure 6 , which schematically illustrates an exploded view of the main stages of said manufacturing. In the remainder of the description, two examples of the manufacturing process will be described, each of the examples being distinct from the other depending on the type of filler material 64 used during said manufacturing.

According to a first example of a manufacturing process, the brazing ring is placed in the groove of the connection block 4 according to the characteristics mentioned above. More precisely, the brazing ring is arranged in the groove of the connection block 4 such that it is close to at least the bottom wall and in contact with the internal peripheral wall of said groove.

Following this step, a preliminary step of the manufacturing process is carried out during which the connection block 4, comprising the brazing ring, is fixed on the first end plate 20 of the heat exchange bundle 2. heat and such that said connection block 4 is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 according to the characteristics previously described. In other words, during the preliminary step, the collar 36 associated with the first inlet opening 32a or with the first outlet opening of the first end plate 20 is inserted into the groove of the connection block 4 in such a way that the latter is offset laterally from the circulation wall 16 of said first end plate 20 and that the collar 36 is at least partly in contact with the brazing ring. In this preliminary step, we ensure that, at the level of part 48 of the connection block 4 comprising the first angular part 50 of the groove 40, the collar 36 is at least in contact with the internal peripheral wall 42 in order to generate a lateral offset of this part 48 of the connection block 4 relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20.

It is then understood that the preliminary manufacturing step allows the positioning of the connection block 4 covering the first inlet opening 32a of the first end plate 20, such that the part 48 of the connection block 4 which comprises the second angular portion of the external peripheral wall of the groove is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of said first end plate 20. It is understood that following this preliminary step, the brazing ring is interposed between the collar 36 of the first inlet opening 32a or the first outlet opening and the bottom wall of the groove of the connection block 4.

In order to secure the connection block 4 to the first end plate 20, and to hold it in position during the remainder of the manufacturing process, an operation is carried out to crimp said connection block 4 with said first end plate 20. .

Following the preliminary assembly step and the crimping of the connection block 4, each of the plates 6 of the beam body 24 is stacked on top of each other in the stacking direction E. Subsequently, we assemble the first end plate 20 carrying the connection block 4 on the bundle body 24 of the heat exchanger 1, at one of its ends, while the second end plate 22 is assembled to the bundle body 24 at one end of said beam 2, opposite the first end plate 20.

At this stage of the process and advantageously according to the invention, a step of visual control of the presence and/or the correct position of the brazing ring within the groove of the connection block 4 is carried out, by means of the space of the groove in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger, provided in the part 48 of the connection block 4 offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, such as 'mentioned previously.

A brazing step is then carried out in the process of manufacturing the heat exchanger 1, during which the plates are simultaneously brazed together to form the heat exchange bundle 2 and each connection block 4 to said heat exchange bundle and in particular the first end plate. We then understand that during this brazing step, the brazing ring previously positioned in the groove of the connection block 4 merges with the connection block on the one hand and the collar on the other hand, so as to ensure the fixing and the sealing of the heat exchanger 1 at the junction of the connection block 4 and the first end plate 20.

Following the brazing step, a subsequent step is carried out to check the tightness between the connection block 4 and the first end plate 20. To do this, we use the first angular part of the groove which is offset laterally from the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 in order to stress the filler material provided between the collar and the groove. In other words, during the subsequent stage of the process, the space provided between the internal peripheral wall and the external peripheral wall of the groove, which is in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger 1, is used to check the tightness between the connection block 4 and the first inlet opening 32a or the first outlet opening.

The subsequent step of checking the tightness can then consist of a first sub-step during which a flow of compressed air is injected, via the first angular part of the groove offset laterally and therefore via the space of the groove in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger 1 as previously mentioned. The compressed air flow then has the function of ensuring that the filler material is firmly attached to the internal peripheral wall of the groove of the connection block 4 and of the collar 36 of the first intake opening 32a or of the first exit opening. In other words, during the first sub-step we check that the filler material, here the brazing ring, has been fused with the collar 36 and at least the internal peripheral wall of the groove. This ensures that the brazing ring is not only stuck by adhesion to the collar, which would present a risk of separation over time as well as a loss of sealing between the connection block 4 and the first plate end 20.

Following the first sub-step, a second sub-step is carried out during which a fluid is circulated through the fluid connection block 4 and the heat exchange bundle 2. We then understand that this second sub-step of the process aims to test the heat exchanger 1 under normal conditions of use. In particular, it is ensured that the fluid seal between the connection block 4 and the first inlet opening 32a or the first outlet opening has been correctly achieved by the melting of the filler material during the brazing operation. More precisely, we ensure that fluid does not flow outside the bundle 2 via the groove of the connection block 4, by visual inspection at the level of the first angular part 50 of the groove 40 offset laterally by relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20.

A second example of a manufacturing process will now be described. It should be considered that only the characteristics different from the first example will be described. For common characteristics, please refer to the first example.

According to the second example of a manufacturing process, following the preliminary assembly step, the crimping of the connection block 4 and the assembly of the plates 6 and the end plates 20, 22 according to the characteristics previously mentioned , a liquid supply material is injected into the groove of the connection block 4 via the first angular part of the groove which is offset laterally from the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20, and which is therefore accessible from the outside of the heat exchanger 1. The liquid filler material is distributed in the throat such that it fills the throat, so as to ensure that the filler material is at least in contact with the internal peripheral wall and the collar 36 of the first inlet opening 32a or the first outlet opening. In this manufacturing example, the lateral offset of a part of the groove allows the operator, in addition to being able to visually check the presence of the filler material and the quality of the seal after brazing as previously mentioned, to 'inject the liquid filler material once the connection block is assembled on the first end plate.

The other steps of the second embodiment are common with the first embodiment of the manufacturing process.

A second embodiment of the invention will now be described in relation to the Figure 7 . It should be considered that in the remainder of the description, only the characteristics different from the first embodiment will be described. For common characteristics, please refer to the figures 2 to 5 .

As visible on the Figure 7 , the connection block 4 is configured such that it covers the first inlet opening and the first outlet opening. We therefore understand that the connection block 4 of this second embodiment comprises a first channel 38a and a second channel 38b respectively to the right of the first inlet opening and to the right of the first outlet opening of the first plate. end 20.

Each of the first channel 38a and the second channel 38b then respectively comprises a first groove and a second groove, not visible, arranged concentrically around each of said channels 38a, 38b. The first groove is then able to cooperate with the collar, visible at the figure 2 , associated with the first inlet opening while the second groove is able to cooperate with the collar associated with the first outlet opening according to the characteristics mentioned above.

Identically to the first embodiment, the connection block 4 comprises at least one part 48 which is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20. More precisely, the connection block 4 according to the second embodiment comprises a first part 48a, which is offset laterally relative to the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 and which is located at the angle between the first longitudinal end 8 and the first transverse end 12 of the heat exchanger 1, and a second part 48b, which is offset laterally of the circulation wall 16 of the first end plate 20 and which is located at the angle of the first longitudinal end 8 and the second transverse end 14 of the heat exchanger 1.

Advantage is taken of the particular manufacturing process of the heat exchanger, as well as the particular structure of said heat exchanger, in that the part of the connection block which is offset laterally from the circulation wall of the first plate end allows a double check of the seal between the connection block and the inlet opening as previously detailed, produced by a filler material. This optimizes the reliability of the heat exchanger as well as its lifespan.

Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims (10)

1. Heat exchanger (1) for a motor vehicle comprising a heat exchange bundle (2) and at least one fluidic connection block (4) allowing at least one fluid to enter and/or leave the heat exchange bundle (2), the heat exchange bundle (2) comprising a plurality of plates (6) stacked on one another such that they delimit between them a plurality of circulation channels (26) for the at least one fluid, each plate (6) comprising a circulation wall (16) surrounded by a downward peripheral edge (18) which extends the circulation wall (16) in the direction away from the fluidic connection block (4), an end plate (20) arranged at the top of the stack being configured to interact with the at least one fluidic connection block (4), the end plate (20) comprising at least one opening (32, 34) for fluidic communication between the heat exchange bundle (2) and the fluidic connection block (4) arranged covering the at least one opening (32, 34), the heat exchanger being characterized in that said at least one opening (32, 34) is delimited by a neck (36) which protrudes from the end plate (20) in the direction away from the heat exchange bundle (2), the fluidic connection block (4) comprising a groove (40) intended to receive the neck (36) of the end plate (20),
   and in that the at least one opening (32, 34) delimited by the neck (36) is formed in a corner of the end plate (20) such that a part (48) of the fluidic connection block (4), comprising at least a first angular part (50) of the groove (40), is offset laterally with respect to the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20).
2. Heat exchanger (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the at least one part (48) of the connection block (4) and a portion of the downward peripheral edge (18) of the end plate (20) are arranged relative to one another such that their respective projection on a main plane of extension of the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20) are substantially coincident.
3. Heat exchanger (1) according to either one of the preceding claims, wherein the connection block (4) comprises at least one channel (38) which allows the fluid to pass through the connection block (4) from or toward the heat exchange bundle (2), the groove (40) in the connection block (4) being formed concentrically around said channel (38).
4. Heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the groove (40) in the connection block (4) is delimited laterally by an inner peripheral wall (42) and an outer peripheral wall (44) having a gap (D) therebetween of a value greater than the value of a thickness (P) of the neck (36) of the opening (32, 34).
5. Heat exchanger (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the inner peripheral wall (42) of the groove (40) is at least partially in contact with the neck (36) of the opening (32, 34) and the outer peripheral wall (44) of the groove (40) is at a non-zero radial distance (R) from the neck (36) of the opening (32, 34).
6. Heat exchanger (1) according to either one of Claims 4 and 5, wherein the inner peripheral wall (42) of the groove (40) is entirely in contact with the neck (36) of the opening (32, 34) and wherein the outer peripheral wall (44) of the groove (40) comprises a first angular portion (56) in contact with the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20) and a second angular portion (58) forming the part (48) of the fluidic connection block (4) offset laterally with respect to the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20), an end face (52) of which facing the heat exchange bundle (2) is free from any contact.
7. Heat exchanger (1) according to any one of Claims 4 to 6, wherein the inner peripheral wall (42) of the groove (40) and the outer peripheral wall (44) of the groove (40) define between them a space (62) in communication with the external environment of the heat exchanger (1).
8. Heat exchanger (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one fluidic connection block (4) is configured to cover two openings (32, 34) formed in the end plate (20) each in a corner of the end plate (20) of the heat exchange bundle (2), this connection block (4) comprising two different channels (38a, 38b) with a groove (40) formed concentrically around each of the channels (38a, 38b) and able to interact with a neck (36) arranged around one of the openings (32, 34).
9. Method for manufacturing a heat exchanger (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 8, comprising at least a preliminary assembly step during which the connection block (4) is secured to the end plate (20) of the heat exchange bundle (2) such that at least a part (48) of the connection block (4) is offset laterally with respect to the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20), a brazing step during which brazing of the heat exchange bundle (2) and of each connection block (4) is carried out, and a subsequent sealing inspection step during which the first angular part (50) of the groove (40) offset laterally from the circulation wall (16) of the end plate (20) is used in order to stress at least one filler material (64) provided between the connection block (4) and the end plate (20).
10. Thermal system of a motor vehicle comprising at least one heat exchanger (1) according to any one of Claims 1 to 8.

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