WO2022157087A1

WO2022157087A1 - Device for regulating an air flow of a motor vehicle

Info

Publication number: WO2022157087A1
Application number: PCT/EP2022/050818
Authority: WO
Inventors: Laura MARION; Karim Arab; Frederic Vacca
Original assignee: Valeo Systemes Thermiques
Priority date: 2021-01-21
Filing date: 2022-01-16
Publication date: 2022-07-28
Also published as: FR3118908A1

Abstract

The invention relates to a device (500) for regulating an air flow intended to flow through a motor-vehicle heat exchanger, the device comprising two shutters (501) that are each able to move in an opening and closing direction, between a closed position in which passage of the air flow is blocked and an open position in which the air flow (F) is let past, each shutter being arranged to roll up and unroll about a rolling shaft, the regulating device comprising an intermediate region (502) located between the two shutters, this region especially being arranged to be placed plumb with a sensor (503), especially a radar, the two shutters being arranged to lie set back from this intermediate region (502) when these shutters are in the closed position.

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 a flow of air circulating within a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle and a cooling module equipped with such a device. It is intended in particular for equipping the front end of a motor vehicle.

[2] It is known to use flaps 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 language expression “Active Grille Shutter”. The AGS is preferably installed at a grille of the motor vehicle. In the open position of the air intake, the air can circulate through the grille and participate in particular in the cooling of the engine of the motor vehicle. In the closed position of the air intake, the air does not enter via the grille which reduces drag and thus helps to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. AGS therefore reduces energy consumption and pollution when the motor 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 request or other.

[4] Motor vehicle cooling modules comprising two heat exchangers are known. A first heat exchanger has the function of cooling 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 of the vehicle, assembled and aligned in series to be successively crossed by the flow of air entering through the grille of the vehicle. They typically include a heat exchange bundle, comprising tubes in which the fluid to be cooled circulates and through which the air coming from the calender 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 flow of air intended to circulate in the heat exchangers in a request for applicant's unpublished patent. 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 control device to pass or alternately block the flow of air passing through the grille of the motor vehicle. The movement of the curtains is carried out by means of a transmission system which guides the movement of said curtains in translation, as well as an actuator inducing a movement in the transmission system.

[6] The subject of the invention is a device for regulating a flow of air 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 closure, between a closed position 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 unroll around a winding shaft, the device comprising a kinematic assembly arranged to set the curtain in motion in the closing and opening direction, 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 make it possible to have 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 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 be rolled up 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 rotate it, and the kinematic assembly is arranged to be set in motion by this shaft winding which is likely to 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, in the event that two curtains are used to open and close the air flow, to have two identical curtains, which in particular makes it possible to simplify the manufacture of the device. In addition, the cutting of canvas pieces of identical shape from a larger canvas makes it possible to substantially reduce canvas scraps and therefore limit waste.

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

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

[21] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain is extended by two belt elements, on two opposite edges of the curtain, these belt elements forming 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 opening and closing direction of the curtain, the belt element extending parallel to these edges of the curtain.

[26] According to one of the aspects 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 bottom of the curtain.

[27] In other words, for example, when the curtain and the belt elements are laid flat, the belt elements, in particular formed by strips of material, deviate from the upper and lower edges of the curtain. Thus the belt elements do not obstruct the passage of air flow when the curtain is open, and are located away from the location occupied by the curtain in the closed position.

[28] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises two identical curtains, each with a pair of belt elements arranged parallel to the lower and upper edges of the curtain.

[29] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain has a front border, 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 border 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 to hold the belt elements.

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

[33] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the sealing lips associated with the two curtains come into contact with each other when the curtains are in the closed position, so as to prevent the flow of air exceed. [34] In the case where two curtains in opposition are provided, each curtain is in particular wound on a winding shaft and the belt elements associated with this curtain are wound on the other winding shaft.

[35] On each winding shaft, the curtain which is rolled up there occupies in particular a major part of the height of this shaft, and, at the ends of the shaft, apart from this part occupied by the curtain, are two zones for fixing the belt elements of the other curtain, which curtain is wound on the opposite winding shaft.

[36] According to one aspect 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 of the aspects of the invention, the strap elements form a kind of straps which extend the curtain. Thus the portion of curtain that enters the kinematic set 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 tension unit comprising a elastic member, in particular a spring, arranged to move the winding shaft over a translation amplitude sufficient to keep the curtain(s) in tension.

[39] According to one of the aspects of the invention, this tensioning unit comprises a fixing element provided with an orifice for the passage of a relief, in particular a barb, of the winding shaft to secure it in translation of this shaft and the tensioning unit, and this unit comprises a spring bearing against a fixed wall of the device so that the tensioning 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 comprises two assembled longitudinal parts around which the curtain is wound.

[41] When two curtains are provided, these 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 have in particular a length substantially twice the length of the curtain, these dimensions being measured in the direction of closing and opening of the curtains. [43] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the belt elements are elements assembled with the associated curtain, ie the belt element is not formed in the same part as the curtain.

[44] According to one aspect 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 can be vertical right and left edges if the curtain(s) are used in vertical motion, with the closing direction oriented vertically instead of a horizontal orientation.

[46] Another subject of the invention is a device for regulating a flow of air intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising at least one curtain able to move in a direction of 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), the curtain being arranged to roll up and unroll 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 tensioning unit comprising an elastic member, in particular a spring, arranged to move the shaft of winding over a translation amplitude sufficient to maintain the curtain or curtains in tension.

[47] A further subject of the invention, independently or in combination with the foregoing, is a device for regulating a flow of air intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising two curtains capable each to move in an opening and closing direction, between a closed position blocking a passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), each curtain being arranged to roll up and unroll around a winding shaft, the regulation device comprising an intermediate region located between the two curtains, this region being in particular arranged to be placed in line with a sensor, in particular a radar, the two curtains being arranged to extend back from this intermediate region when these curtains are in the closed position.

[48] The invention makes it possible in a simple way, to authorize or prevent a flow of air from reaching a heat exchanger downstream of the air regulation device, while making it possible to accommodate, in particular in the middle of the device, equipment such as a sensor, a radar for example.

[49] The invention makes it possible to optimize the space in front of a vehicle.

[50] According to one of the aspects of the invention, in the closed position, the two curtains are not contiguous, but are spaced from each other to leave clear this intermediate region which receives for example a sensor, for example a radar or a camera. [51] According to one aspect of the invention, the two curtains are carried by a common frame.

[52] According to one aspect of the invention, the frame defines the spacer region, in particular the spacer region being a central region of the frame.

[53] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the frame comprises an opening and the intermediate region is part of this opening, and the curtains in the closed position each occupy a space of this opening, these spaces dedicated to the curtains being located on either side of this intermediate region.

[54] These spaces dedicated to the curtains are the airflow passages when the curtains are in the open position.

[55] According to one aspect of the invention, the intermediate region has a substantially rectangular shape when the frame is viewed from the front.

[56] According to one aspect of the invention, the frame has two spacer posts located in the opening and forming two sides of the spacer region.

[57] According to one aspect of the invention, these amounts are straight.

[58] According to one aspect of the invention, each curtain, in the closed position, abuts against one of the spacer uprights.

[59] When the curtain opens, it moves away from the aforementioned amount.

[60] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtain has a notably rectilinear front edge, perpendicular to the direction of opening and closing of the curtain, and this front edge bears against the amount when the curtain is in the closed position.

[61] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the curtains are arranged to operate in opposition, namely the curtains open when moving away from each other, and close when approaching one on the other, here without arriving at a junction between curtains due to the intermediate region.

[62] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the device comprises a kinematic assembly arranged to set the curtain in motion in the closing and opening direction, this kinematic assembly comprising at least a portion of the curtain.

[63] According to one aspect of the invention, the curtain is extended by a belt element which is part of the kinematic assembly. [64] 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.

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

[66] 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 forming part of the kinematic chain.

[67] According to one aspect of the invention, the device comprises two identical curtains, each with a pair of belt elements arranged parallel to the lower and upper edges of the curtain.

[68] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements extend outside the spacer region.

[69] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements extend perpendicular to the uprights delimiting the spacer region.

[70] According to one aspect of the invention, the belt elements extend respectively above and below the spacer region.

[71] Thus the belt elements are not visible from the front of the frame, being hidden by a bar forming the frame, in particular the lower and upper bars of the frame.

[72] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the front edge comprises a sealing member, this sealing member being fixed to a rod, for example a hollow rod, and the curtain is wedged between this stem and sealing member.

[73] According to one of the aspects of the invention, the sealing member comprises a sealing lip, in particular in the form of a hollow profile, which is arranged to rest on the spacer upright when the curtain is in closed position.

[74] According to one aspect of the invention, the spacer post has a straight rib on which the sealing lip rests.

[75] It is understood that all the features and configurations above are in no way limiting. Other characteristics, 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 limitation with reference to the appended diagrammatic drawings, in which: [76] Figure 1 [Fig. 1] schematically illustrates, in side view, the front face of a vehicle comprising a cooling module equipped with a regulation device according to the invention;

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[87] Figure 12 [Fig. 12] is an exploded view of a device according to another embodiment of the invention,

[88] Figure 13 [Fig. 13] is a view of the device of figure 12, in the closed position,

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

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

[91] Figure 16 [Fig. 16] is a view of the device of figure 12, in top view, [92] Figure 17 [Fig. 17] and Fig. 18 [Fig. 18] illustrate another embodiment of the invention.

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

[94] 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 arranged 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.

[95] The upstream heat exchanger 2 is a so-called low temperature cooling radiator, used to cool a coolant of a so-called low temperature heat exchange loop, 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 coolant of a heat exchange loop comprising an engine of the vehicle. The air passing through this downstream exchanger 3 cools the engine coolant.

[96] Each exchanger 2, 3 comprises, for example, a heat exchange beam and collection chambers arranged laterally on either side of the beam (not shown). The bundle is crossed by the air flow F. It includes a set of tubes parallel to each other, opening into the collection chambers, for the circulation of the coolant (not shown).

[97] 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 heat exchanger downstream heat exchanger 3 are assembled together so that the downstream heat exchanger 3 is not directly traversed 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 tightness to guide the entire flow of air having passed through the upstream heat exchanger 2 to the downstream heat exchanger 3 without loss of air flow. These means sealing, not shown, may for example comprise a sheath arranged between the two heat exchangers 2.3.

[98] 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 able to circulate the air in the cooling module. cooling 1. As illustrated in Figure 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 vehicle, which is preferably defined by its grille.

[99] The cooling module 1 according to the invention further comprises a device 10 for regulating the flow of air 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 via blinds or curtains 11 that can be rolled up/unrolled.

[100] As a variant, the cooling module 1 according to the invention may 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 leads to said regulating device.

[101] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the control device 10 according to a first embodiment of the invention is illustrated in 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 lateral borders 11b are opposite and substantially parallel to a Z direction, orthogonal to the X direction, while said proximal border 11a and said distal border 11c are opposite and substantially parallel to a Y direction, orthogonal to the X and Z directions, the direction Z here representing the vertical.

[102] In Figure 2, the control device 10 is in the open position PO, that is to say that the curtains 11 allow the flow of air F to pass. In this configuration, the proximal edges 11a of said curtains 11 are distant from each other. More specifically, a first proximal edge 11a is located near an upper upright of a frame 50 of the regulation device, in particular at a first open position PO1, while a second proximal edge 11a is located near of a lower upright of the frame 50, in particular at the level of a second open position PO2, opposite to PO1 with respect to an axis passing through a dotted line PF - PF. [103] The regulating device 10 further comprises shafts 53 for winding/unwinding the curtains, connected to the frame 50 by hinge bearings 52.

[104] Preferably, each curtain 11 is held 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 other 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.

[105] In Figure 3, the control device 10 is in the closed position PF. The curtains 11 extend in a plane, called the curtain extension plane in the closed position. Said extension plane 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 is extends transversely to the airflow 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 perpendicular to the plane of extension of the curtains in the closed position.

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

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

[108] The transmission system 20 comprises sprockets 21. As can best be seen in Figure 1, said sprockets 21 comprise a peripheral edge 21a and a toothing 21b located on said peripheral edge 21a. The pinions 21 are capable of pivoting, clockwise or, conversely, counter-clockwise, around an axis of rotation oriented in the direction Y.

[109] To this end, the control device 10 preferably comprises at least one actuator 40 configured to drive said transmission system 20. The actuator comprises a motor shaft 41, rotatable around the axis of rotation of said sprockets 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 motor shaft 41. The motor shaft 41 is in connection with the pinions 21. Preferably, the motor member of the actuator 40 is located outside the frame 50.

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

[111] The transmission system 20 further comprises toothed rods 22 substantially parallel to the Z direction. As can best be seen in Figure 1, each toothed rod 22 has a toothing 22a and a flat edge 22b. Said toothed rods 22 are meshed two by two on said pinions 21 via 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 toothing 22a appears 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 edge 22b appears at a position Pt1, are connected to a second curtain 11 located above the dotted line PF - PF.

[112] When the sprockets 21 rotate, the toothed rods 22 whose teeth 22a appear at the Pt2 position slide towards the upper upright of the frame 50, that is to say towards the Pt1 position, while simultaneously the toothed rods 22 whose planar edges 22b appear at position Pt 1 slide in the direction of the lower upright of frame 50, that is to say position Pt2. The toothed rods 22 associated with the same pinion are therefore able to perform symmetrically opposed translational movements in the Z direction.

[113] Advantageously, the pinions 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 capable of driving the drive members 30, to which it is connected, maintaining the horizontality of said drive members with respect to the Y direction. [114] As mentioned above, the regulation device 10 further comprises at least two drive members 30. Their characteristics and their operation are described below.

[115] 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 direction Z causes a translational movement of said drive members 30 in the same direction.

[116] In such a configuration, the transmission system 20 being "toothed", via the pinion and the corresponding toothed rods, it makes it possible to limit slippage 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 effectively transmit the forces. For example, a toothed rod 22 whose toothing 22a moves from the position PT 1 to the position PT2 induces an equivalent movement of the drive member 30 to which it is connected from a distal position, close to the drive shaft. winding/unwinding 53, towards a proximal position, close to the motor shaft 41.

[117] Preferably, the drive members 30 are rigid drive bars. Said drive bars 30 connect together, 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 linked directly to said curtains 11, so that any movement translation of said drive bar in direction Z induces a translational movement of said curtain 11 in the same direction. Said drive bars 30 can be rigidly linked to the curtains 11. Alternatively, said drive bars 30 can be linked flexibly to the curtains 11. In addition, the drive members 30 being kept horizontal by the presence of a gable 21 and corresponding rods 22 on each side of the curtains 11, the edges 11a are therefore kept horizontal. This also makes it possible to distribute the forces symmetrically at the level of the drive members 30.

[118] As can best be seen in the example illustrated in Figure 1, the toothed rod 22 located in the upper part (on the left in the drawing) is straight and the associated drive bar 30 is hooked at one end top of said toothed rod 22. The toothed rod 22 located in the lower part (on the right in the drawing) has an L 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 associated drive bar 30 to 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.

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

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

[121] 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 direction Z. As illustrated in FIG. 3, said toothed rods 22 whose teeth 22a are initially located at a position Pt2 from position Pt2 to position Pt1, and conversely the toothed rods 22 whose flat edges 22b are initially located at position Pt1 move from said position Pt1 to position Pt2.

[122] 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. As they move, drive members 30 guide said curtains 11 so that their proximal edges 11a, initially located at positions PO1 and PO2, reach the closed position PF and are in contact with one another.

[123] The two pinions 21 being simultaneously driven by the motor shaft 41, the curtains 11 are guided symmetrically relative 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 displacement. When the curtains 11 are in contact, they do not allow the flow of air F to pass, circulating perpendicular to the plane of extension of the curtains in the closed position.

[124] Conversely, the curtains 11 are capable of resuming 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 functioning. Indeed, the tensioning members 54 of the curtains continuously exerting a force on the curtains 11, said curtains 11 wind up 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.

[125] The curtain device 10 described above can be placed in a frame 100 as described in Figures 4 and 5. [126] 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 air flow direction.

[127] The front 110 and rear 120 parts have air passages 111 and 121 to allow the flow of air to pass when the two curtains 11 are in the open position.

[128] The rear part 120 comprises a grid area 122, of flat shape, which forms the air passage 121.

[129] The rear part 120 of the frame includes the grid area 122 and the curtains 11 are arranged to be able to rest on this grid area 122 when the curtains 11 are in the closed position.

[130] The gate area 122, substantially rectangular in shape, is formed by bars 125 which intersect 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 intersect at right angles.

[131] The rear part 120 comprises a peripheral border 127 surrounding the gate zone 122. This border 127 comprises reinforcing ribs 128, for example on two parallel sides 129 of this border 127.

[132] The grate area 122 is in one piece and has no amount that passes through it, other than the bars forming the grate.

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

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

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

[136] The front part 110 of the frame comprises a border 117 surrounding the opening 111, this border 117 being arranged to cooperate with the bord127 of the rear part 120, these borders being assembled by fixing elements such as screws, snap-fasteners, or glue. [137] The front 110 and rear 120 parts of the frame are formed by molding a plastic material.

[138] 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 .

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

[140] Of course, frame 100 can be adapted for other types of curtains and/or curtain operating mechanism.

[141] Here the curtains 11 are each in the form of a fabric that can be rolled up around an axis.

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

[143] There is shown in Figures 5 to 8 a device for regulating an air flow 300 according to another embodiment of the invention, the device 300 comprising two curtains 11 able to move in a direction of opening/closing, between a closed position blocking 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 in 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.

[144] 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.

[145] Each winding shaft 302 and 303 comprises a toothed pinion 310 arranged to cooperate with the belt 305 which is notched so that the movement of the winding shaft 303, a movement caused by the actuator 40, is transmitted to the other winding shaft 302. [146] The regulating device 300 comprises two belts 305 each at one of the ends of the two winding shafts 302 and 303 so that each belt 305 is associated with two toothed sprockets 310 of the two winding shafts, these two belts 305 being arranged to be in synchronized movement relative to each other.

[147] 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 of so as to maintain the curtain 11 flat.

[148] Each drive member 320 comprises two carriages 322 arranged to be attached to the two belts 305 so that the drive member 320 is integral with the two belts 305.

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

[150] 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 fixed to a second strand 329 of the belt which is opposite the first strand so that the two carriages 322 can be moved in opposite directions, either away from each other or towards one another. 'other.

[151] 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. In particular 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.

[152] The carriages 322 are made of plastic.

[153] 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. Simultaneous action at both ends of the curtain keeps the curtain taut as desired, thus avoiding gathers or folds and possible jamming of the curtain.

[154] 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 enabled by the fact that the curtains wrap oppositely on the two shafts [155] 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.

[156] The shaft 303 cooperates with the actuator 40 via a cooperation leg 340.

[157] There is shown in Figure 9 an example of an electric actuator 40, like the one described with reference to Figure 6.

[158] The regulating device 300 comprises a frame 361 to house the curtains 11.

[159] 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 following the direction of the air flow, this frame 361 comprising a box 365 in association with the actuator 40.

[160] This box 365 receives in particular an electric motor, not visible in the figures, of the actuator 40, this box 365 comprising a part of the box 366 formed in one piece with the front part 362 of the frame and another part of case 367 formed with the rear part

363 of the frame.

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

[162] 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 includes a cover 369 closing this housing 368, this cover 369 and the associated housing part being formed in one piece.

[163] The cover 369 of the box is flat.

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

[165] 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.

[166] The box 365 extends over less than half the length of the bars 371, in particular less than a third, or even a quarter, of this length.

[167] A hole 372 is provided in the bottom of the housing 365 for the passage of a gear element, for example, to the curtains. [168] The housing parts 366 and 367 of the actuator are formed by molding or co-molding with the respective front and rear parts 362 and 363 of the frame, as best seen in Figures 10 and 11.

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

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

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

[172] 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.

[173] The latching element 391 comprises a deformable latching tab arranged to cooperate with the other latching element 392.

[174] The latching tab 391 has an opening to cooperate with the other latching element 392 which has a boss.

[175] The frame comprises a plurality of pairs of latching elements 391 and 392 distributed on the four sides of the circumference of this frame.

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

[177] 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.

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

[179] Thus the front and rear parts of the frame are assembled without using screws or bolts.

[180] Figures 12 to 16 show an embodiment of the invention.

[181] The parts of the device for regulating an air flow are not described in detail when these parts are present in the previous embodiments. The same reference numbers are used for the same parts. [182] There is shown in Figure 12 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 able to move 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 unroll around a shaft winding 402, the device comprising a kinematic assembly 403 arranged to set each curtain 401 in motion in the closing and opening direction, this kinematic assembly 403 comprising at least a portion 404 of the curtain 401. The portion 404 here is the curtain 401 in its entirety. Each curtain is thus a link in the kinematic assembly 403.

[183] In the example described, the device 400 comprises two winding shafts 402, arranged at two longitudinal ends of an air passage 405, and each curtain 401 is arranged to be able to be rolled up around the shaft corresponding 402, the kinematic assembly 403 cooperating with the two shafts.

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

[185] 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.

[186] Each shaft 402 has at its longitudinal ends end pieces 409 cooperating with bearings 410.

[187] 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 rotations.

[188] One of the winding shafts 402 is driveable 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 the actuator 406 to the other shaft.

[189] Each curtain 401 is extended by a belt element 411 which is part of the kinematic assembly 403. [190] 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.

[191] This piece 412 is obtained by cutting.

[192] 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 the transmission of movement from one of the winding shafts 402 to the other.

[193] 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.

[194] 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.

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

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

[197] The length of the belt element 411 is substantially equal to the length of the curtain 401 measured along the closing and opening direction of the curtain, parallel to the axis of symmetry SY.

[198] 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 element extending parallel to these edges of the curtain 413.

[199] 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.

[200] In other words, when the curtain 401 and the belt elements 411 are laid flat, the belt elements, in particular formed by strips of material, deviate 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 located away from the location occupied by the curtain in the closed position. [201] The device comprises two identical curtains 401, each with a pair of belt elements 411 arranged parallel to the lower and upper edges 413 of the curtain.

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

[203] Strap elements 411 connect to the curtain at the front edge 415.

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

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

[206] The rod 417 and the seal 418 can be in the form of hollow sections.

[207] As seen 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 flow of air from pass.

[208] 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.

[209] On each winding shaft 402, the curtain 401 which is rolled up there occupies a major part of the height of this shaft 402, and, at the ends of the shaft, apart from this part occupied by the curtain, there are two fixing zones 409 of the belt elements of the other curtain, which curtain is wound on the opposite winding shaft 402. The fixing zones of the belt elements 411 are on the end pieces 409.

[210] Each belt element 411 is fixed 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.

[211] The belt elements 411 form a kind of straps which extend the curtain 401. Thus the portion of curtain which enters the kinematic assembly 403 is the curtain in its entirety.

[212] The winding shaft 402, the one that 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 translation amplitude sufficient to maintain the curtain or curtains 401 in tension.

[213] This tension unit 420 includes 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 relative to this stop 423, which is part of the frame 361 similar to the frame described in the previous example. This frame 361 is not described in more detail here.

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

[215] Each tension unit 420 comprises a fixing element provided with an orifice 424 for the passage of a relief, here a barb 425, of the winding shaft 402, more precisely of the tip 409, for solidarize in translation this shaft 402 and the tensioning unit 420.

[216] This unit 420 can move relative to the fixed wall, here the stopper 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).

[217] The winding shaft 402 comprises two longitudinal parts 430 and 431 assembled around which the curtain is rolled up.

[218] When two curtains 402 are provided, these 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.

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

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

[221] 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 fixing, for example a seam, glue, welding...

[222] Of course, the upper and lower edges of the curtain can be vertical right and left edges if the curtain or curtains are used in vertical movement, with the closing direction oriented vertically instead of horizontally. [223] As in the previous example, the frame 361 includes a box 365 to house the actuator 406.

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

[225] Figure 13 shows the curtains 401 in the closed position, the gaskets 418 seal the contact between the curtains 401.

[226] Figure 14 shows the curtains 401 partially open.

[227] To pass from the closed position to a more open potion, the kinematic assembly 403, via the belt elements 411 and the curtains 401 act together like a belt to rotate the winding shafts 402 in a synchronized manner.

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

[229] There has been described in Figures 17 and 18 another embodiment of the invention, mounting a device for regulating an air flow 500 comprising two curtains 501 each able to move in a direction Z of opening and closing, between a closed position blocking a passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), each curtain 501 being arranged to roll up and unroll around a shaft of winding as described above.

[230] The regulation device 500 comprises an intermediate region 502 located between the two curtains 501, this region 502 being arranged to be placed in line with a sensor 503, in particular a radar, the two curtains 501 being arranged to extend set back from this intermediate region 502 when these curtains are in the closed position.

[231] In the closed position, the two curtains 501 are not contiguous, but are spaced from each other to leave clear this intermediate region which receives for example a sensor, for example a radar or a camera.

[232] The two curtains 501 are carried by a common frame 505.

[233] Frame 505 defines spacer region 502 which is a central region of frame 505.

[234] The frame 505 comprises an opening 506 and the intermediate region 502 is part of this opening 506, and the curtains 501 in the closed position each occupy a space 507 of this opening 506, these spaces 507 dedicated to the curtains being located on either side. and on the other side of this intermediate region 502.

[235] These spaces 507 dedicated to the curtains are the air flow passages when the curtains 501 are in the open position. [236] The spacer region 502 has a substantially rectangular shape when the frame 505 is viewed from the front.

[237] The frame 505 comprises two spacer uprights 510, of rectilinear shape, located in the large opening 506 and forming two sides of the spacer region 502.

[238] Each curtain 501, in the closed position, abuts against one of the spacer uprights 510.

[239] When the curtain 501 opens, it moves away from the aforementioned amount 510.

[240] The curtain 501 has a rectilinear front edge 511, perpendicular to the Z direction of opening and closing of the curtain, and this front edge 511 bears against the upright 510 when the curtain 501 is in the closed position.

[241] The curtains 501 are arranged to operate in opposition, namely the curtains open as they move away from each other, and close as they approach each other, here without arriving at a junction between curtains due to the intermediate region 502.

[242] The device comprises a kinematic assembly similar to that in the previous example, arranged to set the curtain in motion in the closing and opening direction, this kinematic assembly comprising at least a portion of the curtain.

[243] Each curtain 501 is extended by belt elements 520 which are part of the kinematic assembly.

[244] Each belt element 520 is made in one piece with the curtain, namely the curtain and this belt element are formed on the same piece, this piece being in particular a canvas.

[245] In the example described, each curtain 501 is extended by two belt elements 520, on two opposite edges of the curtain, these belt elements forming part of the kinematic chain.

[246] Each pair of belt elements 520 is arranged parallel to the lower and upper edges of the curtain.

[247] Belt elements 520 extend outside of spacer region 510.

[248] The belt elements 520 extend perpendicular to the uprights 510 delimiting the spacer region 502.

[249] Belt elements 520 extend respectively above and below spacer region 502. [250] Thus the belt elements are not visible from the front of the frame, being hidden by a bar 522 forming the frame, here the lower and upper bars 522 which are perpendicular to the uprights 510.

[251] Each front edge 511 comprises a sealing member 524, this sealing member being fixed to a hollow rod 525, and the curtain is wedged between this rod 525 and the sealing member 524 which cooperate together by snapping for example.

[252] The sealing member 524 comprises a sealing lip 527, in the form of a hollow profile, which is arranged to rest on the intermediate upright 510 when the curtain 501 is in the closed position. [253] The spacer post 510 has a straight rib 528 on which the sealing lip 527 rests.

Claims

[Claim 1] Device (500) for regulating a flow of air intended to circulate through a heat exchanger for a motor vehicle, the device comprising two curtains (501) each capable of moving in an opening direction and closure, between a closed position blocking a passage of the air flow and an open position allowing the air flow to pass (F), each curtain being arranged to roll up and unroll around a winding shaft, the regulation device comprising an intermediate region (502) located between the two curtains, this region being in particular arranged to be placed in line with a sensor (503), in particular a radar, the two curtains being arranged to extend set back from this intermediate region (502) when these curtains are in the closed position.

[Claim 2] Device according to the preceding claim, in which the two curtains (501) are carried by a common frame (505).

[Claim 3] Device according to the preceding claim, in which the frame (505) defines the intermediate region, in particular the intermediate region being a central region of the frame.

[Claim 4] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the frame (505) comprises two spacer posts (510) located in the opening and forming two sides of the spacer region.

[Claim 5] Device according to the preceding claim, in which each curtain, in the closed position, comes into abutment against one of the spacer uprights.

[Claim 6] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the curtains are arranged to operate in opposition, namely the curtains open when moving away from each other, and close when approaching each other. one another.

[Claim 7] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the curtain is extended by a belt element (520) which forms part of a kinematic assembly.

[Claim 8] Device according to one of the preceding claims, in which the belt elements extend outside the intermediate region.

[Claim 9] Device according to the preceding claim, in which a front edge of the curtain comprises a sealing member (527), this sealing member being fixed to a rod, for example a hollow rod, and the curtain is wedged between this rod and the sealing member. [Claim 10] Device according to the preceding claim, in which the sealing member comprises a sealing lip, in particular in the form of a hollow profile, which is arranged to rest on the intermediate upright when the curtain is in the closed position. .