(19)
(11) EP 4 417 926 A1

(12) EUROPEAN PATENT APPLICATION

(43) Date of publication:
21.08.2024 Bulletin 2024/34

(21) Application number: 23156847.8

(22) Date of filing: 15.02.2023
(51) International Patent Classification (IPC): 
F28F 9/02(2006.01)
F28D 9/00(2006.01)
(52) Cooperative Patent Classification (CPC):
F28F 2280/06; F28D 9/005; F28D 2021/008; F28F 9/0246; F28F 2270/00; F28F 2265/10; F28F 2265/26
(84) Designated Contracting States:
AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC ME MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR
Designated Extension States:
BA
Designated Validation States:
KH MA MD TN

(71) Applicant: VALEO SYSTEMES THERMIQUES
78320 Le Mesnil Saint-Denis (FR)

(72) Inventors:
  • LIPOWSKI, Mateusz
    32 050 Skawina (PL)
  • FIENE, Andreas
    96476 Bad Rodach (DE)
  • POTOK, Dariusz
    32 050 Skawina (PL)
  • JURKIEWICZ, Damian
    32 050 Skawina (PL)
  • MACHUL, Krzystof
    32 050 Skawina (PL)

(74) Representative: Valeo Systèmes Thermiques 
Service Propriété Intellectuelle 8, rue Louis Lormand La Verrière
78320 Le Mesnil Saint Denis
78320 Le Mesnil Saint Denis (FR)

   


(54) FLUID DISTRIBUTION MODULE FOR A THERMAL MANAGEMENT SYSTEM


(57) Fluid distribution module (50) for a thermal management system, the fluid distribution module (50) comprising a first zone (64) comprising at least one channel (52) for distributing heat transfer fluids at a first temperature, and a second zone (66) comprising at least one channel (52) for distributing heat transfer fluids at a second temperature, the first temperature being higher than the second temperature, wherein the fluid distribution module (50) further comprises a first gap (78, 78A) interposed between the first zone (64) and the second zone (66).




Description

Technical Field



[0001] This disclosure pertains to the field of fluid distribution modules for a thermal management system.

Background Art



[0002] An automotive vehicle is classically equipped with one or several thermal management systems that allow to control and modify the temperature of different parts of the vehicle, such as the engine, batteries, or the interior of the vehicle cabin in which the occupants of the automotive vehicle travel.

[0003] Each thermal management system uses at least one fluid that is involved in a heat exchange with the part of the vehicle for which it is necessary to control or modify the temperature. For example, the fluid is a coolant or a refrigerant.

[0004] To distribute said fluid in the automotive vehicle, the corresponding thermal management system is provided with a fluid distribution module. The fluid distribution module comprises a plurality of channels in which the distributed fluid travels at different temperatures. The fluid comes from and/or is directed to a component of the thermal management system that is attached to the fluid distribution module, like a compressor, a heat exchanger, a condenser, etc.

[0005] Generally, two channels of the fluid distribution module receiving the distributed fluid, each at a different temperature, are directly connected externally to each other by a solid part of the fluid distribution module. This causes, on the one hand, heat exchanges between the two channels that create thermal stresses in the fluid distribution module. On the other hand, mechanical stresses appear in the distribution module in case of thermal expansion of the thermal management system component to which the fluid distribution module is connected. Both thermal stresses and mechanical stresses result in a reduction of the performance and efficiency on the fluid distribution module, even leading to its failure, e.g., due to the occurrence of cracks, leaks or other malfunctions in the fluid distribution module.

[0006] There is therefore a need to develop a fluid distribution module for a thermal management system in which thermal and mechanical stresses are reduced.

Summary



[0007] To this end, it is proposed a fluid distribution module for a thermal management system, the fluid distribution module comprising a first zone comprising at least one channel for distributing heat transfer fluids at a first temperature, and a second zone comprising at least one channel for distributing heat transfer fluids at a second temperature, the first temperature being higher than the second temperature, wherein the fluid distribution module further comprises a first gap interposed between the first zone and the second zone.

[0008] Thanks to the gap interposed between the first zone and the second zone, heat exchanges between the first zone and the second zone are reduced despite the difference between the first temperature and the second temperature. Thermal stresses in the fluid distribution module are therefore limited, especially between the first zone and the second zone.

[0009] In addition, thanks to the gap, the fluid distribution module acquires a certain flexibility that allows the fluid module to move locally following the displacement of the thermally expanding component. This limits the occurrence of mechanical stresses in the fluid distribution module. Also, the gap allows the fluid distribution module to thermally expand, particularly in at least one among the first zone and the second zone, without inducing mechanical stresses in the rest of the fluid distribution module.

[0010] The reduction of thermal and mechanical stresses in the fluid distribution module leads to other advantages, such as increased service life of the fluid distribution module and reduced warranty returns. In addition, due to the gap, the mass and price of the fluid distribution module are reduced.

[0011] In another aspect, said first gap is delimited by part of an edge of the fluid distribution module forming an open loop.

[0012] In another aspect, at least a portion of the first zone forms a first tongue surrounded by the first gap and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module, and at least a portion of the second zone forms a second tongue surrounded by the first gap and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module.

[0013] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module further comprises at least a connector forming a heat transfer fluid inlet or a heat transfer fluid outlet of the fluid distribution module.

[0014] In another aspect, the at least one connector is arranged on at least one among the first tongue and the second tongue.

[0015] In another aspect, at least one connector is arranged on the first tongue and at least one connector is arranged on the second tongue.

[0016] In another aspect, the first temperature ranges from 70°C to 130°C.

[0017] In another aspect, the second temperature ranges from -15°C to 15°C, preferably from -10°C to 10°C.

[0018] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module further comprises a third zone comprising at least one channel for distributing heat transfer fluids at a third temperature, the third temperature being different to the first temperature and the second temperature, wherein the fluid distribution module further comprises a second gap interposed between the third zone and at least one of the first zone and the second zone.

[0019] In another aspect, at least a portion of the third zone forms a third tongue surrounded by the second gap and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module.

[0020] In another aspect, the third temperature ranges from 25°C to 50°C, preferably from 25°C to 45°C.

[0021] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module is a coolant distribution module.

[0022] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module is made of polymer, for example polypropylene.

[0023] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module is a refrigerant distribution module.

[0024] In another aspect, the fluid distribution module is made of metal, for example of aluminum.

Brief Description of Drawings



[0025] Other features, details and advantages will be shown in the following detailed description and on the figures, on which:

Fig. 1
[Fig. 1] is a schematical frontal view of a fluid distribution module for a thermal management system according to a first embodiment in which two zones receiving heat transfer fluids at different temperatures are circled in dotted lines.

Fig. 2
[Fig. 2] is a schematical frontal view of a fluid distribution module for a thermal management system according to a second embodiment in which three zones receiving heat transfer fluids at different temperatures are circled in dotted lines.

Fig. 3
[Fig. 3] is a schematical frontal view of the fluid distribution module of figure 2 in which a zone of high stiffness is circled in dotted lines.

Fig. 4
[Fig. 4] is a schematical perspective view of the fluid distribution module of figure 2 with a component of the thermal management system attached to it.

Fig. 5
[Fig. 5] is a schematical perspective view of a unit frame comprising the fluid distribution module of figure 2 with a component of the thermal management system attached to it.


Description of Embodiments



[0026] In this text, an orthonormal reference frame comprising an X-axis, a Y-axis, and a Z-axis perpendicular to each other is used to describe the different figures.

[0027] Figures 1 and 2 show two different embodiments of a fluid distribution module for a thermal management system. The thermal management system is in particular installed in a motor vehicle (not illustrated). The motor vehicle is preferably an electric vehicle or a hybrid vehicle, but it could also be an internal combustion engine vehicle.

[0028] Now the fluid distribution module 10 according to a first embodiment shown in Figure 1 will be described. In this case, the fluid distribution module 10 is for example a coolant distribution module.

[0029] The module 10 comprises a plurality of channels 12. The channels 12 are for example formed by fixing a first plate 14 to a second plate (not visible in figure 1). The second plate faces the first plate 14 in the Z-axis.

[0030] The first plate 14 comprises a plurality of tracks 16 surrounded by a flat part 18. The flat part 18 is comprised in a first plane P1 substantially parallel to a X-Y plane (i.e., a plane comprising the X-axis and the Y-axis).

[0031] Each track 16 can protrude with respect to the flat part 18 along the Z-axis or be comprised in the first plane P1. In particular, each track 16 is delimited by a wall 17 that can protrude with respect to the flat part 18 along the Z-axis or be comprised in the first plane P1. In the exemplary embodiment of figure 1, some tracks 16, that are referenced 16-1 in figure 1, protrude with respect to the flat part 18 along the Z-axis. For example, the wall 17 of each of these tracks 16-1 has a concave cross-section in a plane substantially perpendicular to the first plane P1. Other tracks, that are referenced 16-2 in figure 1, are comprised in the plane P1. The wall 17 of the tracks 16-2 is essentially flat and comprised in the plane P1. Hereinafter, the tracks 16-1 whose wall 17 protrudes along the Z-axis with respect to the plane P1 are also referred to as "protruding tracks", while the tracks 16-2 whose wall 17 is included in the plane P1 are also referred to as "flat tracks".

[0032] As clearly shown in Figure 1, the flat portion 18 can comprise a rib 20 or several ribs 20 protruding along the Z-axis with respect to the rest of the flat portion 18. Each rib 20 surrounds one or more tracks 16.

[0033] In some cases, parallel to the X-Y plane, the rib 20 follows the peripheral shape of each of the tracks 16 or of the plurality of tracks 16 it surrounds. In other cases, the rib 20 has any shape that allows it to surround all the tracks 16 around which it is disposed. In the non-limiting embodiment of figure 1, three ribs 20 are visible: one rib 20 surrounds a plurality of tracks 16, while the two other ribs 20 surround a single respective track 16. More precisely, in figure 1, one rib 20 surrounds all the tracks 16-1 that protrude along the Z-axis, while the two other ribs 20 each surround a track 16-2 comprised in the first plane P1.

[0034] Each rib 20 is in particular a reinforcement rib allowing to increase the stiffness of the module 10.

[0035] The module 10 further comprises at least one connector 22. Each connector 22 is arranged in a track 16. More specifically, each connector 22 forms a hollow cavity that traverses substantially parallel to the Z-axis in its entirety the wall 17 of the corresponding track 16.

[0036] As it will be further explained, at least some connectors 22 can form an inlet and/or an outlet of heat transfer fluids that are distributed by the module 10. The connectors 22 can be shaped to form a fixing point of a component (not shown) of the thermal management system to the module 10 from which the heat transfer fluid comes or to which the heat transfer fluid is directed. The component of the thermal management system can be, for example, a compressor, refrigerant bottles, heat exchangers such as an evaporator and/or a chiller and/or a water chiller, and/or a condenser, valves, sensors, etc. The component of the thermal management system can also be another fluid distribution module that is arranged substantially perpendicular to the module 10.

[0037] The second plate can be a completely flat plate comprised in a second plane P2 substantially parallel to the first plate P1. Alternatively, the second plate can comprise flat parts similar to the flat parts 18 of the first plate 14 (but comprised in the second plane P2), and some tracks similar to the protruding tracks 16-1 (but protruding in an opposite direction along the Z-axis) or the flat tracks 16-2 (but comprised in the second plane P2) described above. Advantageously, when the first plate 14 comprises flat tracks 16-2, the second plate comprises tracks similar to the protruding tracks 16-1 that face the flat tracks 16-2 along the Z-axis when the first plate 14 and the second plate are attached.

[0038] The first plate 14 and the second plate are sealed together. The channels 12 are formed in the space comprised between the protruding tracks of either the first plate 14 and the second plate, and the other plate.

[0039] As said, the module 10 distributes in the thermal management system at least one heat transfer fluid. "Heat transfer fluid" is understood herein as a fluid capable of absorbing calories or frigories from at least one component of the thermal management system. Several heat transfer fluids having or not the same composition but having different temperatures can travel in different zones of the module 10.

[0040] In the module of figure 1, a first zone 24 and a second zone 26 are provided. Each of the first and second zones 24, 26 comprise at least one channel 12 in which the heat transfer fluids flow.

[0041] In each channel 12 of the first zone 24, the heat transfer fluid flows at a first temperature. In each channel 12 of the second zone 26, the heat transfer fluid flows at a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature. As said, the heat transfer fluid flowing in the first zone 24 and the heat transfer fluid flowing in the second zone 26 can have the same composition or a different composition.

[0042] In the case of the module 10, the heat transfer fluids that travel in the channels 12 is in particular a coolant. The coolant is for example water or a glycol-based coolant (i.e. a mixture of water and a glycol compound, as for example ethylene glycol or propylene glycol). Alternatively, the coolant is a dielectric fluid, for example a dielectric oil.

[0043] Each zone 24, 26 can comprise at least one connector 22 forming an inlet or an outlet for the respective heat transfer fluid. In the non-limiting example of figure 1, the first zone 24 comprises a connector 22 that forms an inlet of heat transfer fluid, and the second zone 26 comprises a connector 22 that forms an outlet of heat transfer fluid. For example, a chiller (not shown in figure 1) can be connected to the connector 22 of the first zone 24 and to the connector 22 of the second zone 26. This allows the heat transfer fluid at the first temperature to enter in the module 10 from the chiller, and the heat transfer fluid at the second temperature enter in the chiller from the module 10.

[0044] As clearly shown in figure 1, a first gap 28 is provided between the first zone 24 and the second zone 26. The gap 28 is a zone directly between the first zone 24 and the second zone 26 in which there is no material part of the module 10. In other words, in the gap 28 there is no physical connection (or bridge) between the first zone 24 and the second zone 26. This limits the heat transfer between the first zone 24 and the second zone 26 due to the temperature difference between the first temperature and the second temperature of the heat transfer fluids.

[0045] In the planes P1 and P2, the gap 28 is delimited by part of an edge 29 of the module 10 that forms an open loop. In other words, in the planes P1 and P2, the gap 28 comprises an opening 30. This allows the module 10 to have a certain flexibility that allows the module 10 to move locally if for example the chiller to which it is connected thermally expands. Mechanical stresses in the module 10 are therefore limited.

[0046] A method of manufacturing the module 10 is now detailed.

[0047] Firstly, a first plate and a second plate without the first gap 28 are obtained. In other words, the first zone 24 and the second zone 26 are interconnected. The first and second plate firstly obtained are called hereinafter "first raw plate" and "second raw plate".

[0048] Secondly, the material of the first raw plate and the second raw plate that occupies the space of the gap 28 is removed. For example, this material is removed with cutting tools. The first plate 14 and the second plate are therefore obtained.

[0049] Finally, the first plate 14 and the second plate are sealed together as explained above.

[0050] In an alternative method, the first plate 14 and the second plate may be obtained directly without first obtaining the first raw plate and the second raw plate. For this purpose, molds may be used that allow the gap 28 to be obtained directly.

[0051] A fluid distribution module 50 according to the second embodiment shown in figures 2 to 5 is now described. In this case, the fluid distribution module 50 is for example a refrigerant distribution plate.

[0052] The module 50 comprises a plurality of channels 52. The channels 52 are for example formed by fixing a first plate 54 to a second plate 55, shown in figure 4. The second plate 55 faces the first plate 54 in the Z-axis.

[0053] The first plate 54 comprises a plurality of tracks 56. A flat part 58 is arranged between the tracks 56. The flat part 58 is comprised in the first plane P1 described above.

[0054] Each track 56 protrudes with respect to the flat part 58 along the Z-axis. Each track 56 is in particular similar to the protruding tracks 16-1 described above with reference to figure 1. Therefore, for the sake of conciseness, tracks 56 are not described in detail below.

[0055] In this second embodiment, the flat portion 58 is essentially flat. Nevertheless, it could also comprise one or more reinforcement rib(s) as the ribs 20 described above.

[0056] The module 50 further comprises at least one connector 62. Each connector 62 is arranged on a track 56. More specifically, each connector 62 forms a hollow cavity that traverses substantially parallel to the Z-axis in its entirety the wall of the corresponding track 56.

[0057] As for the module 10, at least some connectors 62 can form an inlet and/or an outlet of heat transfer fluids that are distributed by the module 50. The connectors 62 can be shaped to form a fixing point of one of the above-mentioned components of the thermal management system to the module 50 from which the heat transfer fluid comes or to which the heat transfer fluid is directed.

[0058] In the non-limiting embodiment of figure 4, the second plate 55 is essentially flat and comprised in the plane P2. Alternatively, the second plate 55 could have some tracks similar to the tracks 56 of the first plate 54 but protruding in an opposite direction along the Z-axis. As clearly shown in figure 4, some connectors 62 are also provided on the second plate 55.

[0059] The first plate 54 and the second plate 55 are sealed together, for example by welding. Advantageously, each of the first and the second plates 54, 55 are made of metal, for example of aluminum. The channels 52 are formed in the space comprised between the tracks 56 of either the first plate 54 and the second plate 55, and the other plate.

[0060] As for the module 10 of figure 1, the module 50 distributes in the thermal management system at least one heat transfer fluid. In particular, the module 50 distributes at least one refrigerant.

[0061] Several refrigerants having or not the same composition but having different temperatures can travel in different zones of the module 50. In this case, the module 50 comprises a first zone 64, a second zone 66 and a third zone 68.

[0062] Each zone 64, 66, 68 comprise at least one channel 52 in which the corresponding heat transfer fluid flows. In the non-limiting embodiment of figure 2, the first zone 64 and the second zone 66 comprise a single channel 52, while the third zone 68 comprise two channels 52.

[0063] In each channel 52 of the first zone 64, the heat transfer fluid flows at a first temperature. The first temperature ranges from -15°C to 15°C, preferably from -10°C to 10°C. The first zone 64 is therefore a low temperature zone.

[0064] In the first zone 64, the heat transfer fluid flows at a low pressure. "Low pressure" is understood here as a pressure comprised between 0.1 bar and 8 bar, preferably between 0.5 bar and 6.5 bar.

[0065] In the first zone 64, the heat transfer fluid is advantageously a gaseous fluid.

[0066] In each channel 52 of the second zone 66, the heat transfer fluid flows at a second temperature that is higher than the first temperature in the first zone 64. The second temperature ranges from 70°C to 130°C. The second zone 66 is therefore a high temperature zone.

[0067] In the second zone 66, the heat transfer fluid flows at a high pressure. "High pressure" is understood here as a pressure comprised between 9 bar and 30 bar, preferably between 10 bar and 26 bar.

[0068] In the second zone 66, the heat transfer fluid is advantageously a gaseous fluid.

[0069] In each channel 52 of the third zone 68, the heat transfer fluid flows at a third temperature that is different than the first temperature in the first zone 64 and the second temperature in the second zone 66. The third temperature ranges from 25°C to 50°C, preferably from 25°C to 45°C. The third zone 68 is therefore a medium temperature zone.

[0070] In the third zone 68, the heat transfer fluid flows at high pressure (as defined above). In the third zone 68, the heat transfer fluid can be a gaseous fluid and/or a liquid fluid. For example, in the embodiment of figure 2, since the third zone 68 comprises two channels 52, in one channel 52 the heat transfer fluid can be in the liquid state while in the other channel 52 the heat transfer fluid can be in the gaseous state.

[0071] As said, the heat transfer fluids flowing in the first zone 64, the second zone 66 and the third zone 68 can have the same composition or a different composition. When a same zone comprises several channels 52, the heat transfer fluids flowing in each channel 52 of the same zone can have the same composition or a different one.

[0072] The first zone 64 and the second zone 66 are separated by a first gap 78A, while the third zone 68 is separated from the first zone 64 and the second zone 66 by a second gap 78B. As shown in the figures, the first gap 78A and the second gap 78B can be integrally formed, so that they form a single gap 78. The gaps 78, 78A and 78B are zones directly between the first zone 64 and at least one of the second zone 66 and the third zone 68 in which there is no material part of the module 50. In other words, in the gaps 78, 78A and 78B there is no physical connection (or bridge) between the first zone 64 and the second zone 66. This limits the heat transfer between the first zone 64, the second zone 66 and the third zone 68 due to the temperature difference between the first temperature, the second temperature and the third temperature of the heat transfer fluids.

[0073] In the planes P1 and P2, the gaps 78, 78A and 78B are delimited by part of an edge 79 of the fluid distribution module 50 that forms an open loop. In other words, in the planes P1 and P2, the gaps 78, 78A, 78B comprise an opening 80. This allows the module 50 to have a certain flexibility that allows the module 50 to move locally if for example a chiller or a heat exchanger to which it is connected thermally expands. Mechanical stresses in the module 50 are therefore limited.

[0074] As clearly shown in the figures, at least a portion of the first zone 64 forms a first tongue 70, at least a portion of the second zone 66 forms a second tongue 72, and at least a portion of the third zone 68 forms a third tongue 74. Generally speaking, a "tongue" is defined herein as a portion of each zone 64, 66, 68 that is directly connected to the rest of the module 50 but mostly not surrounded by the material of the module 50. For example, a tongue may be a portion of each zone that includes only a joining line with the rest of the module 50, such joining line being, for example, substantially parallel to a single straight direction. In particular, the tongues 70, 72 and 74 of figure 2 are surrounded by the first gap 78A, the second gap 78B and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module 50.

[0075] Each zone 64, 66, 68 can comprise at least one connector 62 forming an inlet or an outlet for the respective heat transfer fluid.

[0076] Advantageously, at least one connector 62 is arranged on the first tongue 70, the second tongue 72 and the third tongue 74.

[0077] Each tongue 70, 72, 74 form an elastic area of the module 50. By "elastic area" it is understood an area that has a certain level of flexibility and movement with respect to the rest of the module. The level of flexibility and movement depends on the design of tongues and the elastic module of the material. In the parts of the module 50 that tongues 70, 72, 74 are not included, stiff areas 82 are formed, as shown in figure 3.

[0078] Thanks to the elastic areas, it is possible to connect to the module 50 a component, referenced 86 in figure 4, of the thermal management system as those presented previously, the module 50 being able to follow the eventual movement of this component when it changes its volume due to thermal expansion or contraction. This limits the occurrence of mechanical stresses in the distribution module 50.

[0079] The stiff areas 82 allow that the module 50 forms a unit frame 100 with at least one bracket 90. In particular, the at least one bracket 90 is fixed to the stiff areas 82 of the module 50. In the non-limiting embodiment of figure 5, two brackets 90 are provided.

[0080] The module 50 and each bracket 90 can be fixed either by a fixed connection or by a permanent joint.

[0081] As shown in figure 5, the at least one bracket 90 is provided with at least one decoupling element 91 received in a groove 92 formed in the respective bracket 90. The decoupling elements can be of any suitable kind (foam, rubber, ...). The decoupling element 91 ensures a vibrational decoupling of the thermal management system from the vehicle body. Hence, the propagation of acoustic waves and vibrations from the thermal management system to the cabin of the vehicle is reduced, which improves the comfort of the passengers.

[0082] Forming a unit frame UF allow that the thermal management system can be handled as one piece, which is convenient for installing or uninstalling the thermal management system in the vehicle.

[0083] The number of brackets, their position and shape depend on the number of components of the thermal management system.

[0084] Advantageously, the stiff areas 82 of the module 50 to which the brackets 90 are fixed correspond to low temperature zones. This avoids the occurrence of mechanical stresses in the brackets due to thermal expansion of the module 50.

[0085] A method of manufacturing the module 50 is now detailed.

[0086] Firstly, a first plate and a second plate without the gaps 78, 78A, 78B are obtained. In other words, the first zone 64, the second zone 66 and the third zone 68 are interconnected. The first and second plate firstly obtained are called hereinafter "first raw plate" and "second raw plate".

[0087] Secondly, the material of the first raw plate and the second raw plate that occupies the space of the gaps 78, 78A, 78B is removed. For example, this material is removed with cutting tools. The first plate 54 and the second plate 55 are therefore obtained.

[0088] Finally, the first plate 54 and the second plate 55 are sealed together as explained above.

[0089] In an alternative method, the first plate 54 and the second plate 55 may be obtained directly without first obtaining the first raw plate and the second raw plate. For this purpose, molds may be used that allow the gaps 78, 78A, 78B to be obtained directly.

[0090] As explained above, the modules 10, 50 allow to reduce heat transfer between zones of the module 10, 50 that receive heat transfer fluids at different temperatures. Thermal stresses in the module 10, 50 are thus limited.

[0091] In addition, thanks to the gaps 28, 78, 78A, 78B, thermal dilatation or contraction of the module 10, 50 is possible while limiting the mechanical stresses.

[0092] It should be noted that although in the present text, the module 10 is presented as a coolant distribution module, and the module 50 is presented as a refrigerant distribution module, it could be the other way around (i.e., the module 10 is a refrigerant distribution module and the module 50 is a coolant distribution module).


Claims

1. Fluid distribution module (10, 50) for a thermal management system, the fluid distribution module (10, 50) comprising a first zone (24, 64) comprising at least one channel (12, 52) for distributing heat transfer fluids at a first temperature, and a second zone (26, 66) comprising at least one channel (12, 52) for distributing heat transfer fluids at a second temperature, the second temperature being higher than the first temperature, wherein the fluid distribution module (10, 50) further comprises a first gap (28, 78A) interposed between the first zone (24, 64) and the second zone (26, 66).
 
2. Fluid distribution module (10, 50) according to claim 1, wherein said first gap (28, 78A) is delimited by part of an edge (29, 79) of the fluid distribution module (10, 50) forming an open loop.
 
3. Fluid distribution module (50) according to any one of the claims 1 or 2, wherein at least a portion of the first zone (64) forms a first tongue (70) surrounded by the first gap (78A) and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module (50), and at least a portion of the second zone (66) forms a second tongue (72) surrounded by the first gap (78A) and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module (50).
 
4. Fluid distribution module (10, 50) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising at least a connector (22, 62) forming a heat transfer fluid inlet or a heat transfer fluid outlet of the fluid distribution module (10, 50).
 
5. Fluid distribution module (50) according to any one of claims 3 or 4, wherein the at least one connector (62) is arranged on at least one among the first tongue (70) and the second tongue (72).
 
6. Fluid distribution module (50) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein at least one connector (62) is arranged on the first tongue (70) and at least one connector is arranged on the second tongue (72).
 
7. Fluid distribution module (10, 50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the first temperature ranges from -15°C to 15°C, preferably from -10°C to 10°C.
 
8. Fluid distribution module (10, 50) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the second temperature ranges from 70°C to 130°C.
 
9. Fluid distribution module (50) according to any one of the preceding claims, further comprising a third zone (68) comprising at least one channel (52) for distributing heat transfer fluids at a third temperature, the third temperature being different to the first temperature and the second temperature, wherein the fluid distribution module (50) further comprises a second gap (78B) interposed between the third zone (68) and at least one of the first zone (64) and the second zone (66).
 
10. Fluid distribution module (50) according to the preceding claim, wherein at least a portion of the third zone (68) forms a third tongue (74) surrounded by the second gap (78B) and/or the outside of the fluid distribution module (50).
 




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