WO2021214000A1

WO2021214000A1 - Air flow regulating device of a motor vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2021214000A1
Application number: PCT/EP2021/060137
Authority: WO
Inventors: Sylvain Gerber; Enzo MITIDIERI
Original assignee: Valeo Systemes Thermiques
Priority date: 2020-04-20
Filing date: 2021-04-19
Publication date: 2021-10-28
Also published as: FR3109336A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device for regulating an air flow intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one shutter capable of moving in an opening and closing direction between a closed position preventing the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the passage of the air flow (F), the shutter being arranged to wind and unwind around a winding shaft, at least one of the winding shafts, in particular that which is not directly driven by an electric actuator, is secured to a tensioning unit (520) comprising an elastic member (523), in particular a spring, for moving the winding shaft over an amplitude of translation sufficient to maintain the shutter or shutters under tension.

Description

DESCRIPTION

TITLE OF THE INVENTION: DEVICE FOR REGULATING AN AIR FLOW OF A MOTOR VEHICLE

[1] The invention relates to a device for regulating an air flow circulating within a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle and a cooling module provided with such a device. It is in particular intended for fitting out a front panel of a motor vehicle.

[2] It is known to use shutters controlled by an actuator on the front of the vehicle in order to reduce the drag coefficient and also to improve cooling and air conditioning performance. Such a system is most often referred to by the acronym AGS from the English expression "Active Grille Shutter". The AGS is preferably installed at a grille of the motor vehicle. In the open position of the air inlet, air can circulate through the grille and participate in particular in cooling the motor of the motor vehicle. When the air inlet is closed, air does not enter through the grille, reducing drag and thus reducing fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. AGS therefore reduces energy consumption and pollution when the engine does not need to be cooled by the outside air.

[3] In some cases, it is not possible to position an AGS at the level of the grille, in front of the exchangers, due to an unsuitable environment, a customer's wish or other.

[4] Motor vehicle cooling modules comprising two heat exchangers are known. The function of a first heat exchanger is to cool an auxiliary circuit of the vehicle, such as an air conditioning device or a charge air cooling device. A second heat exchanger is required to cool the vehicle engine. The heat exchangers are arranged on the front face of the vehicle, assembled and aligned in series so as to be successively crossed by the flow of air entering through the grille of the vehicle. They typically comprise a heat exchange bundle, comprising tubes in which the fluid to be cooled circulates and through which the air coming from the shell passes. [5] In order to separate the cooling of the two heat exchangers and optimize the aerodynamic gain of each heat exchanger, the applicant recently proposed a device for regulating the air flow intended to circulate in the heat exchangers in a request for unpublished patent of the applicant. The regulating device comprises two curtains mounted in a frame and movable alternately in translation between two open and closed positions. By moving between these two positions, the curtains allow the regulating device to alternately allow or block the flow of air passing through the grille of the motor vehicle. The curtains are moved by means of a transmission system which guides the movement of said curtains in translation, as well as an actuator inducing movement to the transmission system.

[6] The invention relates to a device for regulating an air flow intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one curtain capable of moving in an opening direction. and closing, between a closed position closing off the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), the curtain being arranged to wind up and unwind around a winding shaft, the device comprising a kinematic assembly arranged to set the curtain in motion in the direction of closing and opening, this kinematic assembly comprising at least a portion of the curtain.

[7] The invention makes it possible to simplify the device for regulating an air flow because, the curtain playing a role in the kinematics, it is possible to reduce the number of parts, for example by avoiding belts independent of the curtains. and their associated pulleys.

[8] The invention can also allow for less wear in general because the curtain (s) play a kinematic role, which avoids wearing out other parts.

[9] In addition, the invention allows direct drive of the various parts of the device, namely in particular the winding shafts and the curtain (s).

[10] According to one of the aspects of the invention, this portion of the curtain is the curtain in its entirety. [11] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the device comprises two winding shafts, in particular arranged at two longitudinal ends of an air passage, and the curtain is arranged to be able to wind at least around of one of these shafts, the kinematic assembly cooperating with the two shafts.

[12] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the device comprises an electric actuator cooperating with one of the winding shafts to make it turn, and the kinematic assembly is arranged to be set in motion by this shaft. winding which can be driven by the electric actuator.

[13] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the kinematic assembly is arranged to transmit a movement of the winding shaft associated with the electric actuator to the other winding shaft, this kinematic assembly cooperating thus with the two shafts to associate their respective rotation.

[14] According to one of the aspects of the invention, one of the winding shafts can be driven by the electric actuator and the other winding shaft is passive, being driven by the kinematic assembly which transmits the movement of the shaft associated with the actuator towards the other shaft.

[15] According to one aspect of the invention, the curtain is extended by a belt element which is part of the kinematic assembly.

[16] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the belt element is made in one piece with the curtain, namely the curtain and this belt element are formed on the same part, this part being in particular a Web.

[17] According to one aspect of the invention, this part is obtained by cutting.

[18] The invention makes it possible to have, in the case where two curtains are used to open and close the air flow, to have two identical curtains, which makes it possible in particular to simplify the manufacture of the device. In addition, cutting fabric pieces of identical shape from a larger fabric significantly reduces fabric scraps and therefore limits waste.

[19] The belt element which extends the curtain forms with at least the curtain portion, a complete belt which links the two winding shafts in motion. In other words, the curtain itself or at least a portion of this curtain plays a role in the transmission of movement of one of the trees. winding towards each other. The curtain or a portion thereof is an element of the chain for transmitting motion between the two winding shafts. Without the curtain, the movement between the two trees could not be transmitted. Thus there is no other belt which is independent of the curtain (s).

[20] According to one aspect of the invention, this fabric is made of a flexible material, in particular a fabric based on glass fibers and preferably covered with a waterproof and water-repellent coating.

[21] According to one aspect of the invention, the curtain is extended by two belt elements, on two opposite edges of the curtain, these belt elements being part of the kinematic chain.

[22] According to one aspect of the invention, these belt elements are symmetrical to each other by a line of symmetry passing through the middle of the curtain.

[23] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt element has an elongated shape.

[24] According to one aspect of the invention, the length of the belt element is substantially equal to the length of the curtain measured in the direction of closing and opening of the curtain.

[25] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain is extended by a belt element, which in particular has the shape of a strip of material, and the curtain has lower and upper edges, in particular parallel to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain, the strap member extending parallel to these edges of the curtain.

[26] According to one aspect of the invention, one of the belt elements extends at least partially above the upper edge of the curtain and the other belt element extends at least partially below the edge. lower curtain.

[27] Said another way, for example, when the curtain and the belt elements are laid flat, the belt elements, in particular formed by strips of material, move away from the upper and lower edges of the curtain. Thus the elements belt do not obstruct the air flow path when the curtain is open, and are away from the location occupied by the curtain when closed.

[28] According to one aspect of the invention, the device has two identical curtains, each with a pair of strap elements arranged parallel to the bottom and top edges of the curtain.

[29] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain comprises a front edge, in particular rectilinear, perpendicular to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain, the upper and lower edges being in particular perpendicular to the edge of forehead.

[30] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements connect to the curtain at the front edge.

[31] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the front edge is integral with a sealing member, in particular in the form of a rod assembled with a seal, this rod being in particular arranged for hold the belt elements.

[32] According to one aspect of the invention, the seal which has for example a sealing lip is fixed to this rod.

[33] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the sealing lips associated with the two curtains come into contact with one another when the curtains are in the closed position, so as to prevent the flow of air. to go past.

[34] In the case where two opposing curtains are provided, each curtain is notably wound on a winding shaft and the belt elements associated with this curtain wind on the other winding shaft.

[35] On each winding shaft, the curtain which winds up therein occupies in particular a major part of the height of this shaft, and, at the ends of the shaft, outside this part occupied by the curtain, are located two areas for fixing the belt elements of the other curtain, which curtain is wound on the opposite winding shaft.

[36] According to one of the aspects of the invention, each belt element is fixed at its end to a core, in particular made of plastic, this core forming part of the winding shaft. [37] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements form kinds of straps which extend the curtain. Thus the portion of the curtain which enters the kinematic assembly is the curtain in its entirety.

[38] According to one of the aspects of the invention, at least one of the winding shafts, in particular the one which is not directly driven by the electric actuator, is integral with a voltage unit comprising a elastic member, in particular a spring, arranged to move the winding shaft over a sufficient translation amplitude to keep the curtain or curtains in tension.

[39] According to one of the aspects of the invention, this tension unit comprises a fixing element provided with an orifice for the passage of a relief, in particular a pin, of the winding shaft to secure in translation of this shaft and the tension unit, and this unit comprises a spring bearing against a fixed wall of the device so that the tension unit can move relative to the fixed wall against the elastic force of the spring, so that the spacing between the two winding shafts can vary and maintain sufficient tension in the curtain (s).

[40] According to one aspect of the invention, the winding shaft has two longitudinal parts assembled around which the curtain is wound.

[41] When two curtains are provided, they extend in particular, in the closed position, substantially on two parallel planes, spaced from each other by a certain distance, in particular less than 5 mm, or 1 mm.

[42] When a single curtain is provided to close the air passage, the belt elements in particular have a length substantially double the length of the curtain, these dimensions being measured in the direction of closing and opening of the curtains.

[43] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements are elements assembled with the associated curtain, namely the belt element is not formed in the same part as the curtain.

[44] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the belt element is made of a material different from the material of the curtain. [45] Of course, the top and bottom edges of the curtain may be right and left vertical edges if the curtain (s) are used in vertical movement, with the closing direction oriented vertically instead of a horizontal orientation.

[46] The invention also relates to a device for regulating an air flow intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one curtain capable of moving in a direction of movement. opening and closing, between a closed position closing off the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), the curtain being arranged to wind up and unwind around a winding shaft , at least one of the winding shafts, in particular the one which is not directly driven by an electric actuator, is integral with a tension unit comprising an elastic member, in particular a spring, arranged to move the shaft of winding on a sufficient translation amplitude to maintain the curtain (s) in tension.

[47] According to one aspect of the invention, the tension unit has a sliding member (522).

[48] According to one aspect of the invention, the sliding member receives a pin from the winding shaft.

[49] According to one aspect of the invention, two tension units are provided at each end of the corresponding winding shaft.

[50] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain comprises a front edge, in particular rectilinear, perpendicular to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain, the upper and lower edges being in particular perpendicular to the edge of forehead.

[51] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the front edge is integral with a sealing member (416), in particular in the form of a rod assembled with a seal, this rod being in particular arranged to hold the belt elements.

[52] It is understood that all of the above characteristics and configurations are in no way limiting. Other features, details and advantages of the invention will emerge more clearly on reading the detailed description given below, and several embodiments given by way of indication and not by way of limitation with reference to the appended schematic drawings, in which:

[53] Figure 1 [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates, in side view, the front face of a vehicle comprising a cooling module equipped with a regulating device according to the invention;

[54] Figure 2 [Fig. 2] illustrates, in a schematic front view, a regulating device according to the invention, the curtains are in the open position,

[55] Figure 3 [Fig. 3] illustrates, in a schematic front view, a regulating device according to the invention, the curtains are in the closed position,

[56] Figure 4 [Fig. 4] is a schematic representation of another regulatory device of the invention,

[57] Figure 5 [Fig. 5] is a schematic representation of the elements of the device of FIG. 4,

[58] Figure 6 [Fig. 6] is a schematic representation of a device according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, in a closed position,

[59] Figure 7 [Fig. 7] is a schematic representation of a device according to the previous figure, in an open position,

[60] Figure 8 [Fig. 8] is a schematic representation of the device according to FIG. 6, in magnified view, in closed position,

[61] Figure 9 [Fig. 9] is a view of another embodiment of the invention,

[62] Figure 10 [Fig. 10] is a view of a detail of the embodiment of Figure 9,

[63] Figure 11 [Fig. 11] is a view of another detail of the exemplary embodiment of Figure 9,

[64] Figure 12 [Fig. 12] is an exploded view of a device according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, [65] Figure 13 [Fig. 13] is a view of the device of FIG. 12, in the closed position,

[66] Figure 14 [Fig. 14] is a view of the device of FIG. 12, in the partially open position,

[67] Figure 15 [Fig. 15] is a view of the device of FIG. 12, in the fully open position,

[68] Figure 16 [Fig. 16] is a view of the device of FIG. 12, in top view,

[69] Figure 17 [Fig. 17] is a view of the device according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention.

[70]. Figure 1 illustrates a device 10 for regulating an air flow F as well as a cooling module 1 according to the invention, in a side view. The cooling module 1 extends in depth in an X direction intended to correspond to the longitudinal axis of the equipped vehicle. The air flow F flows substantially parallel to the X direction. The module is configured to be fixed on a support, such as a vehicle frame.

[71] The cooling module 1 comprises an upstream heat exchanger 2 (located on the left in Fig. 1) and a downstream heat exchanger 3 (located on the right in Fig. 1) arranged in series according to the direction of flow of the air flow F passing through them. In other words, the cooling module 1 is configured to be disposed on its support, so that the upstream heat exchanger 2 is crossed by the air flow F first and the downstream heat exchanger 3 second.

[72] The upstream heat exchanger 2 is a cooling radiator, called low temperature, used to cool a cooling liquid of a heat exchange loop, called low temperature, comprising, in particular, an air conditioning condenser and / or a charge air cooler. The downstream heat exchanger 3 is, for example, a high temperature cooling radiator intended to cool a cooling liquid of a heat exchange loop comprising an engine of the vehicle. The air which passes through this downstream exchanger 3 cools the engine coolant. [73] Each exchanger 2, 3 comprises, for example, a heat exchange bundle and collection chambers arranged laterally on either side of the bundle (not shown). The beam is crossed by the air flow F. It comprises a set of tubes parallel to one another, opening into the collection chambers, for the circulation of the cooling liquid (not shown).

[74] The cooling module 1 is advantageously configured to allow a flow of air in a substantially sealed manner between said heat exchangers 2, 3, that is to say that the upstream heat exchanger 2 and the exchanger downstream heat exchanger 3 are assembled together so that the downstream heat exchanger 3 is not directly passed through by air coming from outside the module. In other words, the air flow F passing through the downstream heat exchanger 3 comes from the air flow passing through the upstream heat exchanger 2. For this, the cooling module 1 can, for example, comprise means of sealing making it possible to guide all of the air flow which has passed through the upstream heat exchanger 2 towards the downstream heat exchanger 3 without loss of air flow. These sealing means, not shown, may for example comprise a sheath arranged between the two heat exchangers 2, 3.

[75] To facilitate the passage of the air flow in the cooling module 1, in particular when the vehicle is stationary, the module advantageously comprises a motor-fan unit 10 capable of circulating the air in the cooling module. cooling 1. As illustrated in FIG. 1, the motor-fan unit 4 is here arranged downstream of the downstream heat exchanger 3, the motor-fan unit 4 being configured to suck air from an air inlet of the unit. vehicle, which is preferably defined by its grille.

[76] The cooling module 1 according to the invention further comprises a device 10 for regulating the air flow preferably arranged between the upstream heat exchanger 2 and the downstream heat exchanger 3. The regulating device 10 has a small thickness in the depth of the cooling module. The regulation device 10 controls the passage of the air flow F from the upstream heat exchanger 2 to the downstream heat exchanger 3 by means of roll-up / roll-up blinds or curtains 11. [77] As a variant, the cooling module 1 according to the invention can comprise a single heat exchanger, for example a cooling radiator, said regulating device 10 then being arranged upstream or downstream of said heat exchanger. In such a configuration, the air flow F passing through the heat exchanger comes from the air flow F passing through the regulating device or opens onto said regulating device.

[78] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the regulating device 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention is illustrated in a schematic front view. The device comprises two curtains 11 of generally rectangular shape. Each curtain 11 is delimited by a proximal border 11a, two lateral borders 11b, and a distal border 11c. Said side edges 11b are opposite and substantially parallel to a Z direction, orthogonal to the X direction, while said proximal edge 11a and said distal edge 11c are opposite and substantially parallel to a Y direction, orthogonal to the X and Z directions, the Z direction representing here the vertical.

[79] In Figure 2, the regulation device 10 is in the open position PO, that is to say that the curtains 11 allow the air flow F. In this configuration, the proximal edges 11a of said curtains 11 are distant from each other. More precisely, a first proximal border 11a is located near an upper upright of a frame 50 of the regulation device, in particular at a first open position P01, while a second proximal border 11a is located near a lower upright of the frame 50, in particular at a second open position P02, opposite to P01 with respect to an axis passing through a dotted line PF - PF.

[80] The control device 10 further comprises shafts 53 for winding / unwinding the curtains, connected to the frame 50 by articulation bearings 52.

[81] Preferably, each curtain 11 is kept taut by a tensioning means 54 connected to its distal edge 11c. The tensioning means 54 exert a force on the curtains 11, so that said curtains are continuously kept taut. For example, the tensioning means 54 can be springs, in particular spiral springs, or any another means making it possible to keep said curtains 11 taut. Preferably, each tensioning means 54 is linked on the one hand to the frame 50 and on the other hand to the winding / unwinding shaft 53.

[82] In Figure 3, the regulation device 10 is in the closed position PF. The curtains 11 extend in a plane, called a plane of extension of the curtains in the closed position. Said plane of extension of the curtains in the closed position is oriented in the Z direction, corresponding to the opening / closing direction of the curtains, and in the Y direction. In other words, said extension plane of the curtains in the closed position s' extends transversely to the air flow F. In this configuration, the respective proximal edges 11a of the curtains 11 are in contact with each other at the dotted line PF - PF. The curtains 11 therefore block the passage of the air flow F which circulates perpendicularly to the extension plane of the curtains in the closed position.

[83] The regulating device 10 is configured so that said curtains 11 are able to move in the direction of opening / closing Z, in said extension plane of the curtains in the closed position. In other words, the device can adopt, alternatively the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3. For this purpose, the regulating device 10 comprises a transmission system 20 and at least two drive members 30 connected to said transmission system. 20.

[84] The characteristics and principle of operation of the transmission system 20 are described below.

[85] The transmission system 20 comprises pinions 21. As can be better seen in Figure 1, said pinions 21 include a peripheral edge 21a and a toothing 21b located on said peripheral edge 21a. The pinions 21 are able to pivot, clockwise or, conversely, counterclockwise, about an axis of rotation oriented in the Y direction.

[86] To this end, the regulating device 10 preferably comprises at least one actuator 40 configured to drive said transmission system 20. The actuator comprises a motor shaft 41, movable in rotation about the axis of rotation. said pinions 21. The actuator 40 further comprises a hydraulic or pneumatic cylinder or more generally any motor member making it possible to induce a rotational movement of the drive shaft 41. The drive shaft 41 is connected with the pinions 21. Preferably, the drive member of the actuator 40 is located outside the frame 50.

[87] Preferably, said drive shaft 41 is a cylindrical rod extending between two lateral uprights of the frame 50, and along the dotted line PF - PF. Preferably, an inner edge of the pinions 21 conforms to the drive shaft 41, that is to say that said inner edge follows the contour of the drive shaft 41, so that said pinions 21 can be guided in rotation. by the drive shaft 41. The drive shaft 41 is articulated on bearings 44, linked to the frame 50.

[88] The transmission system 20 further comprises toothed rods 22 substantially parallel to the Z direction. As can be better seen in Figure 1, each toothed rod 22 has teeth 22a and a flat edge 22b. Said toothed rods 22 are meshed in pairs on said pinions 21 through their respective teeth 22a. In other words, the toothing 22a of the toothed rods 22 conforms precisely to the toothing 21b of the pinions 21. The toothed rods 22 are located on either side of the pinions 21 in the direction X. Thus, in FIG. 2, first toothed rods 22, whose teeth 22a appear at a position Pt2, are connected to a first curtain 11 located below the dotted line PF - PF, while second toothed rods 22, whose flat border 22b appears at a position Pt1, are connected to a second curtain 11 located above the dotted line PF - PF.

[89] When the pinions 21 rotate, the toothed rods 22 whose teeth 22a appear at the position Pt2 slide in the direction of the upper upright of the frame 50, that is to say towards the position Pt1, while simultaneously the toothed rods 22 whose flat edges 22b appear at the position Pt1 slide in the direction of the lower upright of the frame 50, that is to say the position Pt2. The toothed rods 22 associated with the same pinion are therefore able to perform symmetrically opposed translational movements in the Z direction.

[90] Advantageously, the gears 21 and a pair of corresponding toothed rods 22 are located symmetrically on each side of said curtains 11. In this configuration, when the actuator 40 is in operation, the transmission system 20 is able to drive the drive members 30, to which it is connected, while maintaining the horizontality of said drive members with respect to the steering. Y.

[91] As mentioned above, the regulating device 10 further comprises at least two drive members 30. Their characteristics and their operation are described below.

[92] In general, said drive members 30 are connected to the transmission system 20. More specifically, here, each drive member 30 is connected to one of said toothed rods 22, so that any sliding of said rods toothed 22 in the Z direction causes a translational movement of said drive members 30 in the same direction.

[93] In such a configuration, the transmission system 20 being "toothed", via the pinion and the corresponding toothed rods, it makes it possible to limit the slip when the actuator 40 is in operation. The transmission system 20 therefore makes it possible to maintain constant the speed with which the drive members are driven. This also makes it possible to efficiently transmit the forces. For example, a toothed rod 22 whose teeth 22a move from position PT1 to position PT2 induces an equivalent displacement of the drive member 30 to which it is connected from a distal position, close to the winding shaft. / unwinding 53, to a proximal position, close to the motor shaft 41.

[94] Preferably, the drive members 30 are rigid drive bars. Said drive bars 30 interconnect, two by two, said toothed rods 22 and are able to be guided in translation by said toothed rods 22. Said drive bars 30 are directly linked to said curtains 11, so that any movement translation of said drive bar in the Z direction induces a translational movement of said curtain 11 in the same direction. Said drive bars 30 may be rigidly linked to the curtains 11. Alternatively, said drive bars 30 may be flexibly linked to the curtains 11. Furthermore, the drive members 30 being held in place. horizontal by the presence of a pinion 21 and corresponding rods 22 on each side of the curtains 11, the edges 11a are consequently kept horizontal. This also makes it possible to symmetrically distribute the forces at the level of the drive members 30.

[95] As can be better seen in the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the toothed rod 22 located in the upper part (on the left in the drawing) is rectilinear and the associated drive bar 30 is hooked to one end. upper part of said toothed rod 22. The toothed rod 22 located in the lower part (on the right in the drawing) has an L-shaped configuration, the large branch of the L having the teeth and the small branch ending in the extension of the other toothed rod 22. The drive bar 30 associated with the toothed rod 22 in L is located at the free end of said small branch of the L, so that the two curtains 11 are substantially in the same plane.

[96] As a variant, said drive members 30 may be pins fixedly connected on the one hand to the transmission system 20 and on the other hand to the curtains 11. The pins are provided on either side of each. curtains 11, each proximal corner of the curtains then being fixed to said pins.

[97] The principle of closing the curtains 11 is as follows.

[98] When the actuator 40 is activated, the pinions 21 perform a rotational movement around its axis of rotation. This rotational movement of the pinions 21 induces a translational movement of the toothed rods 22 which are respectively associated with them in the Z direction. As illustrated in FIG. 3, said toothed rods 22 whose teeth 22a are initially located at a position Pt2 move from position Pt2 to position Pt1, and, conversely, the toothed rods 22 whose plane edges 22b are initially located at position Pt1 move from said position Pt1 to position Pt2.

[99] Incidentally, the drive members 30 connected to said toothed rods 22 are simultaneously guided in translation in opposite directions and drive the curtains 11 in their movement. While moving, the drive members 30 guide said curtains 11, so that their edges proximals 11a, initially located at positions P01 and P02, reach the closed position PF and are in contact with each other.

[100] The two pinions 21 being simultaneously driven by the motor shaft 41, the curtains 11 are guided symmetrically with respect to each other during their movement. The distance separating the two curtains 11, in particular their proximal edges 11a, remains equal on either side of the dotted line PF - PF throughout their movement. When the curtains 11 are in contact, they do not allow the air flow F flowing perpendicular to the extension plane of the curtains in the closed position to pass.

[101] Conversely, the curtains 11 are able to return to their original position (as illustrated in FIG. 2) by moving in the opening / closing direction Z, for example when the actuator 40 is no longer in operation. functioning. Indeed, the tensioning members 54 of the curtains continuously exerting a force on the curtains 11, said curtains 11 are wound again around their respective winding / unwinding shaft 53 and the elements of said transmission system 20 as well as the drive members 30 return to their original position.

[102] The curtain control device 10 described above can be placed in a frame 100 as described in Figures 4 and 5.

[103] This frame 100 provides an interior space 101 in which the curtains 11 are placed, the frame 100 comprising a front part 110 and a rear part.

120 assembled together, the front part 110 being upstream of the rear part 120 in the direction of the air flow.

[104] The front 110 and rear 120 have air passages 111 and

121 to allow the air flow to pass when the two curtains 11 are in the open position.

[105] The rear part 120 has a grille area 122, of planar shape, which forms the air passage 121.

[106] The rear part 120 of the frame includes the grid area 122 and the curtains 11 are arranged to be able to come to rest on this grid area 122 when the curtains 11 are in the closed position. [107] The grid zone 122, substantially rectangular in shape, is formed by bars 125 which cross each other, perpendicularly. The grid zone 122 comprises for example a group of bars parallel to each other and another of bars parallel to each other and the bars of the two groups cross at right angles.

[108] The rear part 120 comprises a peripheral edge 127 surrounding the grid zone 122. This edge 127 comprises reinforcing ribs 128, for example on two sides 129 parallel to this edge 127.

[109] The grid area 122 is integral and has no upright passing through it, other than the bars forming the grid.

[110] The border 127 of the rear part has walls 135 perpendicular to the grid area 122.

[111] The front part 110 of the frame has a completely free opening 111, facing the grid zone 122 of the rear part, in particular being substantially of the same area as this grid zone.

[112] The front part 110 may include a protective grille, in particular an anti-projectile grille, placed in the air passage.

[113] The front part 110 of the frame has an edge 117 surrounding the opening 111, this edge 117 being arranged to cooperate with the edge 127 of the rear part 120, these edges being assembled by fasteners such as screws, snap-fasteners, or glue.

[114] The front 110 and rear 120 of the frame are formed by molding a plastic material.

[115] The curtains 11, once rolled up on themselves, each occupy a cylindrical space which runs along one side 150 of the border of the front and rear parts, while being inside the space delimited by the frame .

[116] An electric actuator 40 is provided for actuating, namely winding or unwinding the curtain or curtains 11. This actuator 40 is here placed outside the frame 100.

[117] Of course the frame 100 can be adapted for other types of curtains and / or curtain actuation mechanism. [118] Here the curtains 11 are each in the form of a canvas roll up around an axis.

[119] Of course, the regulating device may have two curtains which can be activated in a synchronized manner, or alternatively only have a single curtain which in the closed position occupies the entire opening.

[120] There is shown in Figures 5 to 8 a device for regulating an air flow 300 according to another exemplary embodiment of the invention, the device 300 comprising two curtains 11 able to move in a direction of 'opening / closing, between a closed position closing off the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass, this regulating device comprising a transmission system 301 arranged to guide the movement of said curtains 11, as well as 'an actuator 40 inducing movement to the transmission system, this transmission system 301 comprising two winding shafts 302 and 303 each for winding and unwinding one of the curtains 11, this transmission system 301 further comprising at least one belt 305 operable in movement and arranged to rotate at least one of the winding shafts both in the direction of winding of the curtain and in the direction of unwinding of the curtain 11.

[121] The actuator 40 is arranged to rotate one of the winding shafts, that 303 in the figures, selectively in a winding direction of the curtain or in an unwinding direction of the curtain 11.

[122] Each winding shaft 302 and 303 comprises a toothed pinion 310 arranged to cooperate with the belt 305 which is toothed so that the movement of the winding shaft 303, a movement caused by the actuator 40, is transmitted to the other winding shaft 302.

[123] The regulating device 300 comprises two belts 305 each at one end of the two winding shafts 302 and 303 so that each belt 305 is associated with two toothed pinions 310 of the two winding shafts, these two belts 305 being arranged to be in synchronized movement with respect to one another.

[124] The device 300 comprises a drive member 320 secured to a free edge 321 of the curtain 11 and arranged to move at the same time as the two belts 305 to accompany the curtain 11 during its winding or unwinding so as to keep the curtain 11 flat.

[125] Each driver 320 has two carriages 322 arranged to be attached to the two belts 305 so that the driver 320 is integral with the two belts 305.

[126] Each carriage 322 is clamped on the associated belt 305, precisely clamped on a strip 324 forming the belt.

[127] For each belt, the carriage 322 associated with one of the curtains is fixed on a first strand 328 of the belt between the two winding shafts 302 and 303 and the other carriage associated with the other of the curtains is attached to a second strand 329 of the belt which is opposite to the first strand so that the two carriages 322 can be moved in opposite directions, either moving away from each other or moving closer to one another 'other.

[128] Each drive member 320 comprises a rod 331 with at each end of the rod 331 one of the carriages 322, and the rod 331 being placed along a free edge 321 of the associated curtain 11. Particularly when the two curtains 11 are in the closed position, the two rods 331 bear against each other. The carriages 322 are in particular fixed to the belt without the possibility of relative movement with respect to this belt.

[129] The carriages 322 are made of plastic.

[130] Thus to open or close the curtain, this curtain 11 is driven both by the winding shaft and by the drive member, at both ends.

The simultaneous action at both ends of the curtain keeps the curtain taut as desired, thus avoiding puckers or folds and possible jamming of the curtain.

[131] According to one aspect of the invention, the direction for winding the curtain 11 around the winding shaft is the same on both shafts. This is made possible by the fact that the curtains wind in opposite directions on the two trees.

[132] Thus the belts 305 allow the rotation of one of the winding shafts simultaneously with the setting in motion in translation of the drive member 320 of the curtain via the carriages 322. [133] The shaft 303 cooperates with the actuator 40 via a cooperation tab 340.

[134] There is shown in Figure 9 an example of an electric actuator 40, such as that described with reference to Figure 6.

[135] The regulation device 300 comprises a frame 361 for housing the curtains 11.

[136] This frame 361 comprises a front part 362 and a rear part 363, the front part 362 being placed upstream with respect to the rear part 363 in the direction of the air flow, this frame 361 comprising a housing 365 in association with actuator 40.

[137] This housing 365 receives in particular an electric motor, not visible in the figures, of the actuator 40, this housing 365 comprising a housing part 366 formed integrally with the front part 362 of the frame and another part housing 367 formed with the rear portion 363 of the frame.

[138] The two housing parts 366 and 367 are assembled in a sealed manner, with the interposition of a seal between these housing parts.

[139] The housing parts 366 and 367 form a housing 368 for the electric motor and at least one of the housing parts 366 or 367 comprises a cover 369 closing this housing 368, this cover 369 and the associated housing part being formed in one piece.

[140] The housing cover 369 is flat.

[141] The frame 361 has a border 370 and the actuator housing 365 is placed on this border 370.

[142] The housing parts 366 and 367 are formed respectively with a bar 371 of the front or rear part of the frame, these bars together forming the edge 370 of the frame which is in contact with the housing 365 of the actuator.

[143] Housing 365 extends less than half the length of bars 371, including less than a third or even a quarter of that length.

[144] An orifice 372 is provided in the bottom of the housing 365 for the passage of a gear element, for example, to the curtains. [145] The housing portions 366 and 367 of the actuator are formed by molding or co-molding with the respective front and rear portions 362 and 363 of the frame, as best seen in Figures 10 and 11.

[146] The front and rear parts 362 and 363 of the frame are assembled with snap members 391 and 392 forming a pair 377 of snap elements.

[147] At least one of the front and rear parts 362 and 363 of the frame comprises a mesh 378, in particular in the shape of a honeycomb, produced in particular by molding with this part of the frame.

[148] The actuator housing 365 has at least one orifice 379 for the passage of an electrical connection element, in particular for the actuator motor.

[149] The two housing parts 366 and 367 are assembled in a sealed manner, in particular with the interposition of a seal between these housing parts.

[150] The ratchet member 391 has a deformable ratchet tab arranged to cooperate with the other ratchet member 392.

[151] The ratchet tab 391 has an opening to cooperate with the other ratchet member 392 which has a boss.

[152] The frame has a plurality of pairs of detent elements 391 and 392 distributed on the four sides of the periphery of this frame.

[153] The frame has a border 370 and the actuator housing is placed on this border.

[154] The snap elements have dimensions smaller than the dimensions of the border 370 so that the snap elements remain within a width of this border.

[155] The snap elements are integrally formed with the respective frame parts.

[156] Thus the front and rear parts of the frame are assembled without the aid of screws or bolts. [157] There is shown in Figures 12 to 16 an embodiment of the invention.

[158] The parts of the device for regulating an air flow are not described in detail when these parts are present in the previous exemplary embodiments. The same reference numbers are used for the same parts.

[159] FIG. 12 shows a device for regulating an air flow 400 intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device 400 comprising two curtains 401 each capable of moving in a direction. opening and closing, between a closed position blocking the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), each curtain 401 being arranged to roll up and unwind around a tree winding 402, the device comprising a kinematic assembly 403 arranged to set in motion each curtain 401 in the direction of closing and opening, this kinematic assembly 403 comprising at least one portion 404 of the curtain

401. The portion 404 is here the curtain 401 in its entirety. Each curtain is thus a link in the kinematic assembly 403.

[160] In the example described, the device 400 has two winding shafts

402, arranged at two longitudinal ends of an air passage 405, and each curtain 401 is arranged to be able to wrap around the corresponding shaft 402, the kinematic assembly 403 cooperating with the two shafts.

[161] The device 400 comprises an electric actuator 406 cooperating with one of the winding shafts to make it rotate via two toothed wheels 407 and 408 visible in Figures 12 and 13 in particular, and the kinematic assembly 403 is arranged for be set in motion by this winding shaft 402 which is driven by the electric actuator 406.

[162] The toothed wheel 407 is integral with the actuator 406, its electric motor in particular, and the toothed wheel 408 is integral with the shaft 402. These wheels 407 and 408 mesh together.

[163] Each shaft 402 has at its longitudinal ends end pieces 409 cooperating with bearings 410. [164] The kinematic assembly 403 is arranged to transmit a movement of the winding shaft 402 associated with the electric actuator 406 to the other winding shaft 402, this kinematic assembly thus cooperating with the two shafts to associate their respective rotation.

[165] One of the winding shafts 402 is drivable by the electric actuator and the other winding shaft 402 is passive, being driven by the kinematic assembly 403 which transmits the movement of the shaft associated with it. actuator 406 to the other shaft.

[166] Each curtain 401 is extended by a belt element 411 which is part of the kinematic assembly 403.

[167] The belt element 411 is made in one piece with the curtain 401, namely the curtain 401 and this belt element 411 are formed on the same part 412, this part being in particular a canvas.

[168] This part 412 is obtained by cutting.

[169] The belt element 411 which extends the curtain 401 forms with the curtain a complete belt which links the two winding shafts 402 in motion. In other words, the curtain itself plays a role in transmitting motion from one of the winding shafts 402 to the other.

[170] This fabric of part 412 is made of a flexible material, in particular a fabric based on glass fibers covered with a waterproof and water-repellent coating.

[171] In the example described, each curtain 401 is extended by two belt elements 411 parallel to each other, on two opposite edges of the curtain 401, these belt elements forming part of the kinematic chain 403.

[172] These belt elements 411 are symmetrical to each other by a line of symmetry SY passing through the middle of curtain 401.

[173] Each belt element 411 has an elongated shape.

[174] The length of the belt element 411 is substantially equal to the length of the curtain 401 measured in the direction of closing and opening of the curtain, parallel to the axis of symmetry SY. [175] Each curtain 401 is extended by a belt element 411, which in particular has the shape of a strip of material, and the curtain has lower and upper edges 413, parallel to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain. , the belt member extending parallel to these edges of the curtain 413.

[176] One of the belt elements 411 extends at least partially above the upper edge 413 of the curtain and the other belt element 411 extends at least partially below the lower edge 413 of the curtain 401.

[177] Stated differently when the curtain 401 and the belt elements 411 are laid flat, the belt elements, in particular formed by strips of material, move away from the upper and lower edges 413 of the curtain. Thus the belt elements do not obstruct the passage of air flow 405 when the curtain 401 is open, and are away from the location occupied by the curtain in the closed position.

[178] The device has two identical curtains 401, each with a pair of belt elements 411 arranged parallel to the lower and upper edges 413 of the curtain.

[179] Each curtain 401 has a front edge 415, rectilinear, perpendicular to the opening and closing direction of the curtain 401, the upper and lower edges 413 being perpendicular to the front edge.

[180] The belt elements 411 connect to the curtain at the front edge 415.

[181] The front edge 415 is integral with a sealing member 416, in the form of a rod 417 assembled with a seal 418.

[182] The seal 418 which for example has a sealing lip 419 is fixed to this rod 417.

[183] As visible in particular in Figure 16, the sealing lips 419 associated with the two curtains 401 come into contact with each other when the curtains are in the closed position, so as to prevent the air flow from pass.

[184] In the case where two opposing curtains are provided, each curtain 401 is wound on a winding shaft and the belt elements associated with this curtain are wound on the other winding shaft 402. [185] On each winding shaft 402, the curtain 401 which winds up there occupies a major part of the height of this shaft 402, and, at the ends of the shaft, outside this part occupied by the curtain, There are two attachment areas 409 of the belt elements of the other curtain, which curtain is wound on the opposite winding shaft 402. The attachment areas of the belt elements 411 are on the end caps 409.

[186] Each belt element 411 is attached at its end to a core 409, in particular made of plastic material, this core forming part of the winding shaft. This core is on the 409 tip.

[187] The belt elements 411 form a sort of strap which extends the curtain 401. Thus the portion of the curtain which enters the kinematic assembly 403 is the curtain in its entirety.

[188] The winding shaft 402, that which is not directly driven by the electric actuator 406, is integral with a tension unit 420 comprising an elastic member, here a spring housed in a body 421, arranged to move the winding shaft 402 over a sufficient translation amplitude to keep the curtain or curtains 401 in tension.

[189] This tension unit 420 comprises a retractable pin 422 against the spring, to move this unit 420. This pin rests on a stop 423. Thus the tension unit 420 is movable with respect to this stop 423, which forms part of the frame 361 similar to the frame described in the previous example. This frame 361 is not described in more detail here.

[190] Two tension units 420 are provided on the passive shaft 402, in junction with the end caps 409.

[191] Each tension unit 420 comprises a fixing element provided with an orifice 424 for the passage of a relief, here a pin 425, of the winding shaft 402, more precisely of the end piece 409, for secure in translation this shaft 402 and the tension unit 420.

[192] This unit 420 can move relative to the fixed wall, here the stop 423, against the elastic force of the spring, so that the spacing between the two winding shafts can vary and maintain sufficient tension in the curtain (s).

[193] The winding shaft 402 has two longitudinal parts 430 and 431 assembled around which the curtain is wound.

[194] When two curtains 402 are provided, they extend, in the closed position, substantially on two parallel planes, planes spaced from each other by a certain non-zero distance, in particular less than 5 mm , or 1 mm. In other words, in the closed position, the two curtains do not extend exactly in the same plane, as can be seen in figure 16.

[195] When a single curtain is provided to close the air passage, the belt elements 411 have a length substantially twice the length of the curtain, these dimensions being measured in the direction of closing and opening of the curtains.

[196] In a variant, the belt elements 411 are elements assembled with the associated curtain, namely the belt element is not formed in the same part as the curtain.

[197] The belt element 411 is for example made of a material different from the material of the curtain, and if necessary be fixed to the curtain 401 by a fastener, for example a seam, glue, welding, etc.

[198] Of course, the top and bottom edges of the curtain may be right and left vertical edges if the curtain (s) are used in vertical movement, with the closing direction oriented vertically instead of horizontally.

[199] As in the previous example, frame 361 has a housing 365 to house actuator 406.

[200] The card 361 has a grid 437 to protect the curtains 401.

[201] Figure 13 shows the curtains 401 in the closed position, the seals 418 sealingly close the contact between the curtains 401.

[202] Figure 14 shows the curtains 401 partially open. [203] To move from the closed position to a more open potion, the kinematics 403, via the belt elements 411 and the curtains 401 together act as a belt to rotate the winding shafts 402 in a synchronized fashion.

[204] Figure 15 shows the curtains 401 in the fully open position. It shows the belt elements 411 which extend the curtains 401.

[205] FIG. 17 shows in more detail a tension unit 520 of the type of that 420 described above.

[206] This tension unit 520 comprises a sliding member 522 capable of sliding in a guide path 524 against a spring 523, to move this unit 520.

[207] Two tension units 420 are provided on shaft 402.

[208] Each sliding member 522 comprises a fixing element provided with an orifice 424 for the passage of a relief, here a pin 425, of the winding shaft 402, to secure in translation this shaft 402 and the 420 tension unit.

[209] This unit 420 can move relative to the frame, against the elastic force of the spring, so that the spacing between the two winding shafts can vary and maintain sufficient tension in the one or more. curtains.

Claims

[Claim 1] Device for regulating an air flow intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one curtain capable of moving in an opening and closing direction, between a position closed blocking the passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), the curtain being arranged to roll up and unwind around a winding shaft, at least one of the winding shafts, in particular one which is not directly driven by an electric actuator, is integral with a tension unit (420; 520) comprising an elastic member (523), in particular a spring, arranged to move the shaft winding on a sufficient translation amplitude to maintain the curtain (s) in tension.

[Claim 2] Device according to the preceding claim, in which the tension unit comprises a sliding member (522).

[Claim 3] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the sliding member (522) receives a pin (425) of the winding shaft.

[Claim 4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein two tension units are provided at each end of the corresponding winding shaft.

[Claim 5] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the curtain comprises a front edge (415), in particular rectilinear, perpendicular to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain, the upper and lower edges being in particular perpendicular at the front edge.

[Claim 6] Device according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the front edge is integral with a sealing member (416), in particular in the form of a rod assembled with a seal, this rod being in particular arranged to hold the belt elements.