WO2024017849A1 - A fluid management module for a vehicle - Google Patents

A fluid management module for a vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
WO2024017849A1
WO2024017849A1 PCT/EP2023/069835 EP2023069835W WO2024017849A1 WO 2024017849 A1 WO2024017849 A1 WO 2024017849A1 EP 2023069835 W EP2023069835 W EP 2023069835W WO 2024017849 A1 WO2024017849 A1 WO 2024017849A1
Authority
WO
WIPO (PCT)
Prior art keywords
fluid
circulation
module
plate
channel
Prior art date
Application number
PCT/EP2023/069835
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Michal BELZOWSKI
Tomasz Stramecki
Damian JURKIEWICZ
Original Assignee
Valeo Systemes Thermiques
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Valeo Systemes Thermiques filed Critical Valeo Systemes Thermiques
Publication of WO2024017849A1 publication Critical patent/WO2024017849A1/en

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
    • F28F3/02—Elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with recesses, with corrugations
    • F28F3/04—Elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with recesses, with corrugations the means being integral with the element
    • F28F3/048—Elements or assemblies thereof with means for increasing heat-transfer area, e.g. with fins, with recesses, with corrugations the means being integral with the element in the form of ribs integral with the element or local variations in thickness of the element, e.g. grooves, microchannels
    • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
    • B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
    • B60H—ARRANGEMENTS OF HEATING, COOLING, VENTILATING OR OTHER AIR-TREATING DEVICES SPECIALLY ADAPTED FOR PASSENGER OR GOODS SPACES OF VEHICLES
    • B60H1/00—Heating, cooling or ventilating [HVAC] devices
    • B60H1/00485—Valves for air-conditioning devices, e.g. thermostatic valves
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F3/00—Plate-like or laminated elements; Assemblies of plate-like or laminated elements
    • F28F3/12—Elements constructed in the shape of a hollow panel, e.g. with channels
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
    • F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
    • F28F9/0246—Arrangements for connecting header boxes with flow lines
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F9/00—Casings; Header boxes; Auxiliary supports for elements; Auxiliary members within casings
    • F28F9/02—Header boxes; End plates
    • F28F9/0246—Arrangements for connecting header boxes with flow lines
    • F28F9/0251—Massive connectors, e.g. blocks; Plate-like connectors
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
    • H01M10/62—Heating or cooling; Temperature control specially adapted for specific applications
    • H01M10/625—Vehicles
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01M—PROCESSES OR MEANS, e.g. BATTERIES, FOR THE DIRECT CONVERSION OF CHEMICAL ENERGY INTO ELECTRICAL ENERGY
    • H01M10/00—Secondary cells; Manufacture thereof
    • H01M10/60—Heating or cooling; Temperature control
    • H01M10/65—Means for temperature control structurally associated with the cells
    • H01M10/655—Solid structures for heat exchange or heat conduction
    • H01M10/6554—Rods or plates
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
    • F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
    • F28D2021/0019—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for
    • F28D2021/0028—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for for cooling heat generating elements, e.g. for cooling electronic components or electric devices
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28D—HEAT-EXCHANGE APPARATUS, NOT PROVIDED FOR IN ANOTHER SUBCLASS, IN WHICH THE HEAT-EXCHANGE MEDIA DO NOT COME INTO DIRECT CONTACT
    • F28D21/00—Heat-exchange apparatus not covered by any of the groups F28D1/00 - F28D20/00
    • F28D2021/0019—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for
    • F28D2021/008—Other heat exchangers for particular applications; Heat exchange systems not otherwise provided for for vehicles
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F2250/00—Arrangements for modifying the flow of the heat exchange media, e.g. flow guiding means; Particular flow patterns
    • F28F2250/06—Derivation channels, e.g. bypass
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F2265/00—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction
    • F28F2265/06—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction by using means for draining heat exchange media from heat exchangers
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F2265/00—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction
    • F28F2265/16—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction for preventing leakage
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F2265/00—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction
    • F28F2265/32—Safety or protection arrangements; Arrangements for preventing malfunction for limiting movements, e.g. stops, locking means
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F28—HEAT EXCHANGE IN GENERAL
    • F28F—DETAILS OF HEAT-EXCHANGE AND HEAT-TRANSFER APPARATUS, OF GENERAL APPLICATION
    • F28F2280/00—Mounting arrangements; Arrangements for facilitating assembling or disassembling of heat exchanger parts
    • F28F2280/06—Adapter frames, e.g. for mounting heat exchanger cores on other structure and for allowing fluidic connections

Definitions

  • TITLE A FLUID MANAGEMENT MODULE FOR A VEHICLE
  • Cooling/heating circuits essentially consist of thermal management components such as pumps, valves and heat exchangers, and of components that serve to guide a fluid and that fluidically connect the thermal management components with each other, such as fluid management modules.
  • the fluid flows back and forth in the circuits and exchanges energy with the air of the cabin’s vehicle, which ensures the thermal management of the air.
  • Some heat exchangers for example battery coolers may comprise flat plates assembled together which comprise plurality of the channels for the fluid.
  • the flat surface of such heat exchangers allows better heat exchange between the battery and the medium circulating within the heat exchanger.
  • Such plates assembled together may also be used for providing compact air conditioning or heating units.
  • the channels formed on the plates may not cross one another. Unless desired, crossing the channels for the fluids would severely impact the fluid distribution in such unit. Designing the channels for the fluid which would not cross each-others paths may require using longer channels for the fluid, so that it is routed away from the neighboring channel. Such redirection may increase the overall space occupied by channels for the fluid. As consequence, this may decrease the robustness of the whole unit.
  • the object of the invention is, among others, a fluid management module for a vehicle, comprising: a block for the distribution of the fluid in the module, said block comprising at least one valve, a unit for the circulation of the fluid in the module, the unit comprising at least a plate, called transferring plate, shaped to form at least one channel called circulation channel for receiving the fluid, and a plate, called support plate, wherein the support plate is substantially flat and comprises a first face being in contact with the transferring plate, and a second face being in contact with the block (for the distribution of the fluid in the module), the block (for the distribution of the fluid in the module) and the unit (for the circulation of the fluid in the module) being fluidly connected together, the valve being configured to distribute the fluid in the at least one circulation channel of the unit (for the circulation of the fluid in the module), and at least one bypass means, characterised in that the bypass means comprise at least one bypass channel is located opposite to the first face.
  • the unit is for refrigerant circulation and said at least one circulation channel is a refrigerant circulation channel.
  • the support plate is disposed between the block and the transferring plate.
  • curvatures of the transferring plate constitute the circulation channels.
  • the support plate is disposed between the bypass means and the transferring plate.
  • bypass means is disposed at least partially between the block and the transferring plate.
  • the bypass means comprises at least one bypass channel, wherein said bypass channel is fluidly connected with at least one channel of the unit.
  • bypass channel overlaps at least one channel of the transferring plate, with respect to the general plane of the support plate.
  • the bypass channel forms a bridge over one of the circulation channels.
  • the bypass channel is configured to pass through, or overlap, a circulation channel of the transfer plate without direct fluidic connection therewith.
  • the bypass channel comprises an inlet and an outlet which are located on either side of one of the transfer plate's circulation channels, and which are connected to other circulation channels of the transfer plate.
  • the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is perpendicular with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
  • the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is oblique with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
  • the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is parallel with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
  • the bypass means is a tube having essentially circular cross-section.
  • the bypass means is a stamped plate.
  • the fluid management module comprises at least one heat exchanger attached opposite the first face.
  • Fig. 1 shows a cross- section view of the fluid management module.
  • Fig. 2 shows a perspective partial cross- section of fluid management module.
  • FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of fluid management module comprising a bypass means.
  • FIG. 4 shows a perspective view of the fluid management module of Fig. 3 with visible exemplary location of the circulation channels with respect to the bypass means.
  • Fig. 5 shows a cross section of the fluid management module with the bypass means.
  • FIG. 6 shows a bottom view of fluid management module comprising a reinforcement means in form of reinforcing channel on the transferring plate.
  • Fig. 7 shows a bottom view of fluid management module comprising a reinforcement means in form of set of reinforcing ribs on the transferring plate.
  • Fig. 8 shows a bottom view of the fluid management module comprising safety means in form of a channel comprising a set of orifices.
  • Fig. 9 shows a cross-section view and a detailed view of the fluid management module comprising safety means.
  • Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of fluid management module comprising a cooldown zone on the transferring plate.
  • Fig. 1 1 shows a cross section view of the unit for circulation of the fluid comprising examples of the cooldown zones in detail views.
  • a fluid management module is referred to as 1 .
  • the fluid management module 1 may also be referred to as a hub 1.
  • the hub 1 is intended to be part of a thermal management system of a vehicle in which the fluid flows in an air conditioning and/or a heat pump circuits. In such systems, the air temperature may be controlled by thermal exchanges of the air with the fluid circulating in said circuits.
  • the fluid may be, for example a coolant fluid or a refrigerant.
  • the hub 1 comprises a block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and a unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • unit 3 is designed for refrigerant circulation.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise at least one valve 4.
  • the valves 4 may be operated according to different factors such as temperature, pressure, etc.
  • the valve 4 usually comprises a body and an actuator which allows the flow of the medium from the sub-component being located on one side of the valve to the sub-component being located on the other side of the valve.
  • the actuators may be of different types, i.e. depending on the type of input or signal, the actuator will at least some of the fluid to pass through the valve body.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise several valves, referenced 4.
  • the valves 4 can be shut-off valves, progressive valves, EXV (for electronic expansion valve) or TXV (for thermostatic expansion valve).
  • each valve 4 may comprise a valve body 5 provided with a bore 6.
  • the bore 6 may comprise its axis of elongation.
  • the valve body 5 may also be provided with openings 7, 8 for the distribution of the fluid by the valve 4.
  • a plunger 9 is disposed in the bore 6 such that an external wall 10 of the plunger 9 contacts an inner wall 1 1 of the valve body 5.
  • the external wall 10 of the plunger 9 extends longitudinally from an upper end 12 to a bottom end 13.
  • the plunger 9 is arranged to reciprocate from a closed position (figure 1 ) to an open position (not illustrated). In the closed position, the plunger 9 forbids any distribution of the fluid in the valve 4, whereas, in the open position, the bottom end 13 is located above the openings 7, 8, which authorizes the fluid distribution.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 stems from a machining process that ensures high precision in the shaping of the block.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 can be considered as a zone in which the high requirements for the fluid flow are met.
  • the movement of the plunger 9 in the bore 6 should be accurately controlled and hence necessitates an as exact form of the bore 6 as possible. Since a machining process gives optimal results when removing material this process is preferable for forming the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 can be made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, which ensures a good rigidity, even though the invention is not limited to this material.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 could be made of plastic (for low pressures of the fluid).
  • the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise, inter alia, a transferring plate 20.
  • the transferring plate 20 should be regarded as the plate configured to provide guidance for the fluid.
  • the transferring plate 20 may be made of a single, unitary plate of material having the unitary thickness (wherein the thickness is measured between the opposite faces of said plate).
  • the transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one channel or corrugation 21 for the circulation of the fluid.
  • curvatures of the transferring plate 20 constitute passages that form the channels 21.
  • the channels 21 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the circulation channel 21 is a U-shape.
  • the “shape” of the circulation channel 21 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said circulation channel 21 in at least one cross-sectional view.
  • the U-shaped channel allows smooth transition of the fluid and it is easy to manufacture in, for example, stamping process of the transferring plate 20.
  • the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise two plates, however, the number of plates greater than two is also envisaged.
  • the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may also comprise a support plate 22.
  • the support plate 22 is configured to interface the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 with the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the support plate 22 is essentially flat to contact a bottom part of the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the support plate 22 is situated between the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and the transferring plate 20. It is also envisaged that the shape of the transferring plate 20 corresponds to the shape of the support plate 22 even if the surface of support plate 22 forms more than one distinguishable general plane.
  • the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20 may comprise the outer edges, wherein one of them does not protrude beyond the other.
  • the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 comprises at least the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20, wherein the outer circumference of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 is delimited by the edges of the plates 20, 22.
  • the support plate 22 may comprise holes 23, each hole 23 being arranged to receive an end 25 of the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the holes 23 comprise a shape which corresponds to the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 , so that the support plate 22 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may be connected in the fluid-tight manner.
  • the holes 23 comprise circular shape, yet other shapes of the holes 23 are also envisaged.
  • the holes 23 are in in the vicinity of the channels 21 , such that the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 are in a fluidic relationship.
  • the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 fluidly connect each other, the fluid in the hub 1 being distributed in the channels 21 by the valves 4.
  • valve body 5 is attached to the support plate 22 by crimping, which a tight connection of these elements and a sealing between the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1.
  • the plates 20, 22 can be made of a metallic material, like aluminum, which ensures a god rigidity, even though the invention is not limited to this material. Depending on the pressure of the fluid in the hub 1 , the plates 20, 22 could be made of plastic (for low pressures of the fluid).
  • the fluid management module 1 may further comprise at least one bypass means 30.
  • bypass means refers to sub-components not being an integral part of the plates 20, 22, yet providing a fluidal communication between at least two channels 21 of holes 23.
  • the bypass means 30 may further comprise at least one bypass channel 31 located opposite to the first face 22a.
  • the bypass means 30 may be in a form of a plate extending in parallel with respect to the support plate 22.
  • the bypass means 30 may also extend in parallel with respect to both the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20.
  • the bypass channels 31 may be formed in the plate forming bypass means 30, for example, in the process of stamping. It allows efficient bypass channel 31 formation.
  • the plate forming the bypass means 31 may comprise a circumferential edge 32, wherein said circumferential edge 32 delimits the bypass means 30. In other words, the inner face and the outer face of the bypass means 30 may extend within the circumferential edge 32.
  • the circumferential edge 32 of the bypass means 30 may be lined up with the support plate 22 and/or with the transferring plate 20. In other words, at least the portion of the terminal edge of the bypass means 30 may be flush with at least the portion of terminal edge of the plate 20, 22.
  • one channel 31 may comprise a first general axis of elongation
  • the other channel 31 may comprise a second general axis of elongation, wherein the axes of elongation are defined by the resultant between the terminal portions of the channel 31. Consequently, the axes of the bypass channels 31 may be aligned perpendicularly, in parallel or obliquely with respect to each other.
  • bypass means 30 may also be in a form of tubes or hoses extending between the two holes 23.
  • the tubes or hoses forming the bypass means 30 are fluidly connecting respective channels 21 of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 via holes 23 and it is in contact with the support plate 22 just in the vicinity of respective holes 23.
  • the fluid management module 1 comprises the bypass means 30 in form of the plate with bypass channel 31 and in form of the tubes or hoses, wherein all of the bypass means are located on the same unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the fluid management module 1 may further comprise at least one safety means 40 located on the transferring plate 20.
  • transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one safety means 40 in a form of a safety channel 41 , wherein said channel 40 is fluidly insulated by the support plate 22.
  • curvatures of the safety means 40 constitute empty passages which in the proper operational mode of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 are not intended to transfer the fluid from one part of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 to the other.
  • bypass channel 31 forms a bridge over one of the circulation channels 21 .
  • bypass channel 31 is configured to cross or overlap a transfer plate circulation channel 21 without direct fluidic connection therewith.
  • the bypass channel 31 comprises an inlet and an outlet which are located on either side of one of the transfer plate's circulation channels 21 , and which are connected to other circulation channels 21 of the transfer plate 20.
  • the fluid management module comprises at least one heat exchanger insert arranged opposite the first side 22a.
  • the circulation channels do not act as heat exchangers but essentially perform a fluid circulation function.
  • the safety means 40 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the safety circulation channel 21 is a U-shape.
  • the “shape” of the safety channel 41 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said safety channel 41 in at least one cross-sectional view.
  • the U-shaped channel allows is easy to manufacture in the process of, for example, stamping.
  • the safety means 40 are reinforcing the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 due to its shape.
  • the safety means 40 prevent the leaking fluid from damaging the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1.
  • the safety channel 41 may at least be filled by the leaking fluid what prevents the plates 20, 22 from further disintegration.
  • the safety means may also comprise at least one orifice 42.
  • the orifice 42 is in fact a through-hole fluidly connecting the safety channel 41 with the ambience of the fluid management module 1 .
  • the orifices 42 enable detection of the leakage by the user, for example during laboratory tests of the module or during service of the vehicle.
  • said orifices 42 may be arranged in series.
  • the orifices 42 may be arranged in series forming the straight line substantially parallel to the main axis of extension of said safety channel 41 . Other arrangement of the orifices 42 is also envisaged.
  • the orifices 42 may also comprise same or different shapes and sizes.
  • the circular shape of the orifices 42 is preferable.
  • at least one orifice 42 comprises oval shape.
  • at least one orifice 42 comprises rectangular shape.
  • at least one orifice 42 comprises oblong shape.
  • the orifices 42 may be arranged in a manner which promotes the gravitational fluid flow from the safety channel 41 .
  • the safety means 40 may extend along at least one circulation channel 21 , preferably in parallel thereto. Alternatively, the safety means 40 may extend between two channels 21. This allows the safety means 40 to collect the leaking fluid from the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 in an efficient way.
  • the safety means 40 may be implemented in the vicinity of the channels 21 being critical for the proper functioning of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the fluid management module may further comprise at least one cooldown zone 50.
  • the cooldown zone 50 is configured to reduce the temperature of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 wherever desired. It facilitates the thermal management of the fluid management module 1 by reducing the risk of overheating and as consequence, a failure thereof.
  • the cooldown zone 50 may be implemented locally, yet it may affect the whole unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the cooldown zone 50 is located on the transferring plate 20. Since the transferring plate 20 may be made in the stamping process, it is easier to form cooldown zone 50 as the next step of the process. It is also envisaged that the cooldown zone 50 may be located on the support plate 22. For the sake of clarity of the description the cooldown zones 50 are described based on the example of the transferring plate 20, yet one should be aware that the following paragraphs may also refer to the support plate 22.
  • the cooldown zone 50 may be in form of a gap 51 .
  • the gap 51 should be understood as a recess in the surface of the transferring plate 20 or even a through-hole therein.
  • the gap 51 should be understood as any depletion on the surface of the transferring plate 20, wherein the thickness of the gap 51 is smaller than the thickness of the plate 20, wherein the thickness is measured in perpendicular to the general plane of the transferring plate 20.
  • the cooldown zone 50 comprises at least two gaps 51 which are relatively close to each other, said gaps 51 may be arranged in sets.
  • the set of gaps 51 may form riblike structure, i.e. the consecutive gaps 51 may extend longitudinally and substantially in parallel with respect to each- other, so that the areas of the transferring plate 20 located in-between them form rib-like structure.
  • the cooldown zone 50 may be in a form of at least one protrusion 52.
  • the protrusion 52 may be formed in a stamping process, wherein the protrusion 52 projects substantially in the same direction as the channels 21.
  • the protrusions may be added, for example, by brazing the thin elements onto the surface of the transferring plate 20.
  • the aim of the cooldown zone 50 is to dissipate the heat so that the temperature of the media circulating within the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 does not impact its mechanical properties and robustness. Further, the cooldown zone 50 increases the heat transfer between the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the ambience.
  • the cooldown zone 50 may be arranged, for example between the channels 21 of the transferring plate 20. If two channels 21 comprise media having different temperatures, the cooldown zone 50 may be located between these channels 21 and along at least one of them to provide good thermal insulation of said channels.
  • the fluid management module may further comprise at least one reinforcement 60 located on the transferring plate 20.
  • transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one reinforcement 60 in a form of a reinforcing channel 61 , wherein said reinforcing channel 61 is fluidly insulated by the support plate 22.
  • curvatures of the reinforcement 60 constitute empty passages which in the proper operational mode of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 are not intended to transfer the fluid from one part of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 to the other.
  • the reinforcement 60 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the reinforcement channel 61 is a U-shape.
  • the “shape” of the reinforcing channel 61 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said reinforcing channel 61 in at least one cross-sectional view.
  • the U-shaped channel allows is easy to manufacture in the process of, for example, stamping.
  • the reinforcement 60 may extend along at least one circulation channel 21 , preferably in parallel thereto. Alternatively, the reinforcement 60 may extend between two channels 21 .
  • the reinforcement 60 may also be in a form of a ribs 62 protruding from the transferring plate 20.
  • the ribs 62 may comprise long form, elongated along the surface of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 , whereas said ribs 62 protrude in perpendicular to direction of elongation thereof.
  • the ribs 62 may also be arranged in sets, wherein each set comprise two or more ribs 62.
  • the reinforcement 60 may be in form of the bent section 63.
  • the bent section 63 may comprise circumferential edge of the support plate 22 and the circumferential edge of the transferring plate 20.
  • the preferable location for the bent section 63 is the circumference of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
  • the bent section 63 increases overall robustness of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 without a need to interfere in the middle sections thereof, i.e. the sections delimited by said circumferential walls.

Abstract

The object of the invention is, among others, a fluid management module for a vehicle, comprising: a block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1), said block comprising at least one valve (4), a unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1), the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1) comprising at least a plate (20), called transferring plate, shaped to form at least one channel (21) for receiving the fluid, and a plate (22), called support plate, wherein the support plate (22) is substantially flat and comprises a first face (22a) being in contact with the transferring plate (20), and a second face (22b) being in contact with the block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1), the block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1) and the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1) being fluidly connected together, the valve (4) being configured to distribute the fluid in the channel (21) of the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1), and at least one bypass means (30), characterised in that the bypass means (30) comprise at least one bypass channel (31) is located opposite to the first face (22a).

Description

DESCRIPTION
TITLE : A FLUID MANAGEMENT MODULE FOR A VEHICLE
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
This disclosure pertains to the field of thermal management systems for a vehicle
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
Modern vehicles have thermal management systems such as cooling/heating circuits to provide comfort functions for the users of the vehicle and to ensure a necessary temperature control of components such as drive components. Cooling/heating circuits essentially consist of thermal management components such as pumps, valves and heat exchangers, and of components that serve to guide a fluid and that fluidically connect the thermal management components with each other, such as fluid management modules. The fluid flows back and forth in the circuits and exchanges energy with the air of the cabin’s vehicle, which ensures the thermal management of the air.
The development of the electric vehicles has increased the need of optimized air conditioning systems as well as heat pump systems with simplified and cost-effective processes of manufacturing.
Some heat exchangers, for example battery coolers may comprise flat plates assembled together which comprise plurality of the channels for the fluid. The flat surface of such heat exchangers allows better heat exchange between the battery and the medium circulating within the heat exchanger. Such plates assembled together may also be used for providing compact air conditioning or heating units. However, the channels formed on the plates may not cross one another. Unless desired, crossing the channels for the fluids would severely impact the fluid distribution in such unit. Designing the channels for the fluid which would not cross each-others paths may require using longer channels for the fluid, so that it is routed away from the neighboring channel. Such redirection may increase the overall space occupied by channels for the fluid. As consequence, this may decrease the robustness of the whole unit.
It would be desired to provide an alternative way of transferring the fluid form one place on the plate to the other, without crossing the channels thereof.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
The object of the invention is, among others, a fluid management module for a vehicle, comprising: a block for the distribution of the fluid in the module, said block comprising at least one valve, a unit for the circulation of the fluid in the module, the unit comprising at least a plate, called transferring plate, shaped to form at least one channel called circulation channel for receiving the fluid, and a plate, called support plate, wherein the support plate is substantially flat and comprises a first face being in contact with the transferring plate, and a second face being in contact with the block (for the distribution of the fluid in the module), the block (for the distribution of the fluid in the module) and the unit (for the circulation of the fluid in the module) being fluidly connected together, the valve being configured to distribute the fluid in the at least one circulation channel of the unit (for the circulation of the fluid in the module), and at least one bypass means, characterised in that the bypass means comprise at least one bypass channel is located opposite to the first face.
Advantageously, the unit is for refrigerant circulation and said at least one circulation channel is a refrigerant circulation channel.
Advantageously, the support plate is disposed between the block and the transferring plate.
Advantageously, curvatures of the transferring plate constitute the circulation channels.
Advantageously, the support plate is disposed between the bypass means and the transferring plate.
Advantageously, the bypass means is disposed at least partially between the block and the transferring plate. Advantageously, the bypass means comprises at least one bypass channel, wherein said bypass channel is fluidly connected with at least one channel of the unit.
Advantageously, the bypass channel overlaps at least one channel of the transferring plate, with respect to the general plane of the support plate.
Advantageously, the bypass channel forms a bridge over one of the circulation channels. In other words, the bypass channel is configured to pass through, or overlap, a circulation channel of the transfer plate without direct fluidic connection therewith.
Advantageously, the bypass channel comprises an inlet and an outlet which are located on either side of one of the transfer plate's circulation channels, and which are connected to other circulation channels of the transfer plate.
Advantageously, the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is perpendicular with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
Advantageously, the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is oblique with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
Advantageously, the main axis of the channel formed by the transferring plate and the support plate is parallel with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel formed by the bypass means and the transferring plate.
Advantageously, the bypass means is a tube having essentially circular cross-section.
Advantageously, the bypass means is a stamped plate.
Advantageously, the fluid management module comprises at least one heat exchanger attached opposite the first face.
BRIEF DESCRITPTION OF DRAWINGS
Examples of the invention will be apparent from and described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:
[Fig 1 ] Fig. 1 shows a cross- section view of the fluid management module. [Fig 2] Fig. 2 shows a perspective partial cross- section of fluid management module.
[Fig 3] Fig. 3 shows a perspective view of fluid management module comprising a bypass means.
[Fig 4] Fig. 4 shows a perspective view of the fluid management module of Fig. 3 with visible exemplary location of the circulation channels with respect to the bypass means.
[Fig 5] Fig. 5 shows a cross section of the fluid management module with the bypass means.
[Fig 6] Fig. 6 shows a bottom view of fluid management module comprising a reinforcement means in form of reinforcing channel on the transferring plate.
[Fig 7] Fig. 7 shows a bottom view of fluid management module comprising a reinforcement means in form of set of reinforcing ribs on the transferring plate.
[Fig 8] Fig. 8 shows a bottom view of the fluid management module comprising safety means in form of a channel comprising a set of orifices.
[Fig 9] Fig. 9 shows a cross-section view and a detailed view of the fluid management module comprising safety means.
[Fig 10] Fig. 10 shows a perspective view of fluid management module comprising a cooldown zone on the transferring plate.
[Fig 1 1 ] Fig. 1 1 shows a cross section view of the unit for circulation of the fluid comprising examples of the cooldown zones in detail views.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS
A fluid management module is referred to as 1 . The fluid management module 1 may also be referred to as a hub 1. The hub 1 is intended to be part of a thermal management system of a vehicle in which the fluid flows in an air conditioning and/or a heat pump circuits. In such systems, the air temperature may be controlled by thermal exchanges of the air with the fluid circulating in said circuits. The fluid may be, for example a coolant fluid or a refrigerant.
The hub 1 comprises a block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and a unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
In the example shown, unit 3 is designed for refrigerant circulation.
The block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise at least one valve 4. The valves 4 may be operated according to different factors such as temperature, pressure, etc. The valve 4 usually comprises a body and an actuator which allows the flow of the medium from the sub-component being located on one side of the valve to the sub-component being located on the other side of the valve. The actuators may be of different types, i.e. depending on the type of input or signal, the actuator will at least some of the fluid to pass through the valve body.
As shown in the figures, the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise several valves, referenced 4. The valves 4 can be shut-off valves, progressive valves, EXV (for electronic expansion valve) or TXV (for thermostatic expansion valve).
Referring to Fig. 2, each valve 4 may comprise a valve body 5 provided with a bore 6. The bore 6 may comprise its axis of elongation. The valve body 5 may also be provided with openings 7, 8 for the distribution of the fluid by the valve 4.
Referring back to Fig. 1 , a plunger 9 is disposed in the bore 6 such that an external wall 10 of the plunger 9 contacts an inner wall 1 1 of the valve body 5. The external wall 10 of the plunger 9 extends longitudinally from an upper end 12 to a bottom end 13.
The plunger 9 is arranged to reciprocate from a closed position (figure 1 ) to an open position (not illustrated). In the closed position, the plunger 9 forbids any distribution of the fluid in the valve 4, whereas, in the open position, the bottom end 13 is located above the openings 7, 8, which authorizes the fluid distribution.
Preferably, the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 stems from a machining process that ensures high precision in the shaping of the block. Said differently, the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 can be considered as a zone in which the high requirements for the fluid flow are met. The movement of the plunger 9 in the bore 6 should be accurately controlled and hence necessitates an as exact form of the bore 6 as possible. Since a machining process gives optimal results when removing material this process is preferable for forming the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 .
The block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 can be made of a metallic material, such as aluminum, which ensures a good rigidity, even though the invention is not limited to this material. Depending on the pressure of the fluid in the hub 1 , the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 could be made of plastic (for low pressures of the fluid).
The unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise, inter alia, a transferring plate 20. The transferring plate 20 should be regarded as the plate configured to provide guidance for the fluid. The transferring plate 20 may be made of a single, unitary plate of material having the unitary thickness (wherein the thickness is measured between the opposite faces of said plate).
The transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one channel or corrugation 21 for the circulation of the fluid. In other words, curvatures of the transferring plate 20 constitute passages that form the channels 21. The channels 21 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the circulation channel 21 is a U-shape. The “shape” of the circulation channel 21 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said circulation channel 21 in at least one cross-sectional view. The U-shaped channel allows smooth transition of the fluid and it is easy to manufacture in, for example, stamping process of the transferring plate 20.
The unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may comprise two plates, however, the number of plates greater than two is also envisaged.
The unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 may also comprise a support plate 22. The support plate 22 is configured to interface the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 with the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 . In other words, the support plate 22 is essentially flat to contact a bottom part of the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 . The support plate 22 is situated between the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and the transferring plate 20. It is also envisaged that the shape of the transferring plate 20 corresponds to the shape of the support plate 22 even if the surface of support plate 22 forms more than one distinguishable general plane.
The support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20 may comprise the outer edges, wherein one of them does not protrude beyond the other. In other words, the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 comprises at least the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20, wherein the outer circumference of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 is delimited by the edges of the plates 20, 22.
The support plate 22 may comprise holes 23, each hole 23 being arranged to receive an end 25 of the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 . In other words, the holes 23 comprise a shape which corresponds to the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 , so that the support plate 22 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 may be connected in the fluid-tight manner. Preferably, the holes 23 comprise circular shape, yet other shapes of the holes 23 are also envisaged.
The holes 23 are in in the vicinity of the channels 21 , such that the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 are in a fluidic relationship. The block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1 and the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 fluidly connect each other, the fluid in the hub 1 being distributed in the channels 21 by the valves 4.
Preferably, the valve body 5 is attached to the support plate 22 by crimping, which a tight connection of these elements and a sealing between the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the block 2 for the distribution of the fluid in the module 1.
The plates 20, 22 can be made of a metallic material, like aluminum, which ensures a god rigidity, even though the invention is not limited to this material. Depending on the pressure of the fluid in the hub 1 , the plates 20, 22 could be made of plastic (for low pressures of the fluid).
The fluid management module 1 may further comprise at least one bypass means 30. The term “bypass means” refers to sub-components not being an integral part of the plates 20, 22, yet providing a fluidal communication between at least two channels 21 of holes 23. The bypass means 30 may further comprise at least one bypass channel 31 located opposite to the first face 22a.
The bypass means 30 may be in a form of a plate extending in parallel with respect to the support plate 22. The bypass means 30 may also extend in parallel with respect to both the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20. The bypass channels 31 may be formed in the plate forming bypass means 30, for example, in the process of stamping. It allows efficient bypass channel 31 formation. The plate forming the bypass means 31 may comprise a circumferential edge 32, wherein said circumferential edge 32 delimits the bypass means 30. In other words, the inner face and the outer face of the bypass means 30 may extend within the circumferential edge 32.
The circumferential edge 32 of the bypass means 30 may be lined up with the support plate 22 and/or with the transferring plate 20. In other words, at least the portion of the terminal edge of the bypass means 30 may be flush with at least the portion of terminal edge of the plate 20, 22.
In case the bypass means 30 comprise more than one bypass channel 31 , one channel 31 may comprise a first general axis of elongation, and the other channel 31 may comprise a second general axis of elongation, wherein the axes of elongation are defined by the resultant between the terminal portions of the channel 31. Consequently, the axes of the bypass channels 31 may be aligned perpendicularly, in parallel or obliquely with respect to each other.
Alternatively, the bypass means 30 may also be in a form of tubes or hoses extending between the two holes 23. In other words, the tubes or hoses forming the bypass means 30 are fluidly connecting respective channels 21 of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 via holes 23 and it is in contact with the support plate 22 just in the vicinity of respective holes 23.
It is also envisaged that the fluid management module 1 comprises the bypass means 30 in form of the plate with bypass channel 31 and in form of the tubes or hoses, wherein all of the bypass means are located on the same unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
The fluid management module 1 may further comprise at least one safety means 40 located on the transferring plate 20. In particular, transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one safety means 40 in a form of a safety channel 41 , wherein said channel 40 is fluidly insulated by the support plate 22. In other words, curvatures of the safety means 40 constitute empty passages which in the proper operational mode of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 are not intended to transfer the fluid from one part of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 to the other.
The bypass channel 31 forms a bridge over one of the circulation channels 21 . In other words, bypass channel 31 is configured to cross or overlap a transfer plate circulation channel 21 without direct fluidic connection therewith. The bypass channel 31 comprises an inlet and an outlet which are located on either side of one of the transfer plate's circulation channels 21 , and which are connected to other circulation channels 21 of the transfer plate 20.
The fluid management module comprises at least one heat exchanger insert arranged opposite the first side 22a. Thus, the circulation channels do not act as heat exchangers but essentially perform a fluid circulation function.
The safety means 40 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the safety circulation channel 21 is a U-shape. The “shape” of the safety channel 41 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said safety channel 41 in at least one cross-sectional view. The U-shaped channel allows is easy to manufacture in the process of, for example, stamping. During the proper operation of the fluid management module 1 , the safety means 40 are reinforcing the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 due to its shape. However, if the connection between the support plate 22 and the transferring plate 20 fails, the safety means 40 prevent the leaking fluid from damaging the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1. The safety channel 41 may at least be filled by the leaking fluid what prevents the plates 20, 22 from further disintegration.
However, the user may not be aware of the leakage. Thus, the safety means may also comprise at least one orifice 42. The orifice 42 is in fact a through-hole fluidly connecting the safety channel 41 with the ambience of the fluid management module 1 . The orifices 42 enable detection of the leakage by the user, for example during laboratory tests of the module or during service of the vehicle. In case where the safety channel 41 comprises more than one orifice 42, said orifices 42 may be arranged in series. In one embodiment, the orifices 42 may be arranged in series forming the straight line substantially parallel to the main axis of extension of said safety channel 41 . Other arrangement of the orifices 42 is also envisaged. They may be arranged, for example, in zig-zag pattern or they can be located randomly along the safety channel 41 . The orifices 42 may also comprise same or different shapes and sizes. The circular shape of the orifices 42 is preferable. In other embodiment at least one orifice 42 comprises oval shape. In other embodiment at least one orifice 42 comprises rectangular shape. In other embodiment at least one orifice 42 comprises oblong shape. Preferably, the orifices 42 may be arranged in a manner which promotes the gravitational fluid flow from the safety channel 41 .
The safety means 40 may extend along at least one circulation channel 21 , preferably in parallel thereto. Alternatively, the safety means 40 may extend between two channels 21. This allows the safety means 40 to collect the leaking fluid from the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 in an efficient way. The safety means 40 may be implemented in the vicinity of the channels 21 being critical for the proper functioning of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
The fluid management module may further comprise at least one cooldown zone 50. The cooldown zone 50 is configured to reduce the temperature of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 wherever desired. It facilitates the thermal management of the fluid management module 1 by reducing the risk of overheating and as consequence, a failure thereof. The cooldown zone 50 may be implemented locally, yet it may affect the whole unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
Preferably, the cooldown zone 50 is located on the transferring plate 20. Since the transferring plate 20 may be made in the stamping process, it is easier to form cooldown zone 50 as the next step of the process. It is also envisaged that the cooldown zone 50 may be located on the support plate 22. For the sake of clarity of the description the cooldown zones 50 are described based on the example of the transferring plate 20, yet one should be aware that the following paragraphs may also refer to the support plate 22.
In one of the examples, the cooldown zone 50 may be in form of a gap 51 . The gap 51 should be understood as a recess in the surface of the transferring plate 20 or even a through-hole therein. In other words, the gap 51 should be understood as any depletion on the surface of the transferring plate 20, wherein the thickness of the gap 51 is smaller than the thickness of the plate 20, wherein the thickness is measured in perpendicular to the general plane of the transferring plate 20.
In case the cooldown zone 50 comprises at least two gaps 51 which are relatively close to each other, said gaps 51 may be arranged in sets. The set of gaps 51 may form riblike structure, i.e. the consecutive gaps 51 may extend longitudinally and substantially in parallel with respect to each- other, so that the areas of the transferring plate 20 located in-between them form rib-like structure.
Alternatively, the cooldown zone 50 may be in a form of at least one protrusion 52. The protrusion 52 may be formed in a stamping process, wherein the protrusion 52 projects substantially in the same direction as the channels 21. Alternatively, the protrusions may be added, for example, by brazing the thin elements onto the surface of the transferring plate 20.
The aim of the cooldown zone 50 is to dissipate the heat so that the temperature of the media circulating within the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 does not impact its mechanical properties and robustness. Further, the cooldown zone 50 increases the heat transfer between the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 and the ambience. The cooldown zone 50 may be arranged, for example between the channels 21 of the transferring plate 20. If two channels 21 comprise media having different temperatures, the cooldown zone 50 may be located between these channels 21 and along at least one of them to provide good thermal insulation of said channels.
The fluid management module may further comprise at least one reinforcement 60 located on the transferring plate 20. In particular, transferring plate 20 may be shaped to form at least one reinforcement 60 in a form of a reinforcing channel 61 , wherein said reinforcing channel 61 is fluidly insulated by the support plate 22. In other words, curvatures of the reinforcement 60 constitute empty passages which in the proper operational mode of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 are not intended to transfer the fluid from one part of said unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 to the other. The reinforcement 60 may be of different shapes and sizes, yet the preferable shape of the reinforcement channel 61 is a U-shape. The “shape” of the reinforcing channel 61 should be regarded as the shape of the portion which forms said reinforcing channel 61 in at least one cross-sectional view. The U-shaped channel allows is easy to manufacture in the process of, for example, stamping.
The reinforcement 60 may extend along at least one circulation channel 21 , preferably in parallel thereto. Alternatively, the reinforcement 60 may extend between two channels 21 .
Alternatively, the reinforcement 60 may also be in a form of a ribs 62 protruding from the transferring plate 20.
The ribs 62 may comprise long form, elongated along the surface of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 , whereas said ribs 62 protrude in perpendicular to direction of elongation thereof. The ribs 62 may also be arranged in sets, wherein each set comprise two or more ribs 62.
Further, the reinforcement 60 may be in form of the bent section 63. The bent section 63 may comprise circumferential edge of the support plate 22 and the circumferential edge of the transferring plate 20. In general, the preferable location for the bent section 63 is the circumference of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 .
The bent section 63 increases overall robustness of the unit 3 for the circulation of the fluid in the module 1 without a need to interfere in the middle sections thereof, i.e. the sections delimited by said circumferential walls.
Other variations to the disclosed embodiments can be understood and effected by those skilled in the art in practicing the claimed invention, from a study of drawings, the disclosure, and the appended claims. The mere fact that certain measures are recited in mutually different dependent claims does not indicate that a combination of these measures cannot be used to the advantage.

Claims

1 . A fluid management module (1 ) for a vehicle, comprising:
- a block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1 ) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1 ), said block comprising at least one valve (4),
- a unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1 ) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1 ), the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1 ) comprising at least a plate (20), called transferring plate, shaped to form at least one channel (21 ) called circulation channel for the fluid circulation, and a plate (22), called support plate, wherein the support plate (22) is substantially flat and comprises a first face (22a) being in contact with the transferring plate (20), and a second face (22b) being in contact with the block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1 ), the block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1 ) and the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1 ) being fluidly connected together, the valve (4) being configured to distribute the fluid in the at least one circulation channel (21 ) of the unit (3) for the circulation of the fluid in the module (1 ), and at least one bypass means (30), characterised in that the bypass means (30) comprise at least one bypass channel (31 ) located opposite to the first face (22a).
2. The fluid management module for a vehicle according to claim 1 , wherein the unit is for refrigerant circulation and said at least one circulation channel is a refrigerant circulation channel.
3. The fluid management module for a vehicle according to any claims 1 to 2, wherein the support plate (22) is disposed between the block (2) for the distribution of the fluid in the module (1 ) and the transferring plate (20).
4. The fluid management module for a vehicle according to any claims 1 to 3, wherein curvatures of the transferring plate (20) constitute the circulation channels (21 ).
5. The fluid management module for a vehicle according to any of the preceding claims , wherein the support plate (22) is disposed between the bypass means (30) and the transferring plate (20).
6. The fluid management module for a vehicle according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass means (30) is disposed at least partially between the block (3) and the transferring plate (20).
7. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass channel (31 ) overlaps at least one circulation channel (21 ) of the transferring plate (20), with respect to the general plane of the support plate (22).
8. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass channel (31 ) forms a bridge over one of the circulation channels (21 ).
9. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass channel (31 ) is configured to pass through a circulation channel (21 ) of the transfer plate without direct fluidic connection therewith.
10. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass channel comprises an inlet and an outlet which are located on either side of one of the transfer plate's circulation channels (21 ) , and which are connected to other circulation channels (21 ) of the transfer plate (20).
11 . The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the main axis of the circulation channel (21 ) formed by the transferring plate (20) and the support plate (22) is perpendicular with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel (31 ) formed by the bypass means (30) and the transferring plate (20).
12. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the main axis of the circulation channel (21 ) formed by the transferring plate (20) and the support plate (22) is oblique with respect to the main axis of the bypass channel (31 ) formed by the bypass means (30) and the transferring plate (20).
13. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass means (30) is a tube (30A) having essentially circular cross-section.
14. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the bypass means (30) is a stamped plate (30B).
15. The fluid management module according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the fluid management module comprises at least one heat exchanger attached opposite the first face.
PCT/EP2023/069835 2022-07-22 2023-07-17 A fluid management module for a vehicle WO2024017849A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR2207576A FR3138198A1 (en) 2022-07-22 2022-07-22 FLUID MANAGEMENT MODULE FOR A VEHICLE
FRFR2207576 2022-07-22

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WO2024017849A1 true WO2024017849A1 (en) 2024-01-25

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Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20170324132A1 (en) * 2016-05-06 2017-11-09 Dana Canada Corporation Heat Exchangers For Battery Thermal Management Applications With Integrated Bypass
WO2021048095A1 (en) * 2019-09-09 2021-03-18 Brose Fahrzeugteile SE & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Würzburg Compact module for controlling the temperature of a motor vehicle

Patent Citations (2)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US20170324132A1 (en) * 2016-05-06 2017-11-09 Dana Canada Corporation Heat Exchangers For Battery Thermal Management Applications With Integrated Bypass
WO2021048095A1 (en) * 2019-09-09 2021-03-18 Brose Fahrzeugteile SE & Co. Kommanditgesellschaft, Würzburg Compact module for controlling the temperature of a motor vehicle

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