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EP0446099B1 - Compact four-way connector and its application in the cooling system of a motor vehicle - Google Patents

Compact four-way connector and its application in the cooling system of a motor vehicle Download PDF

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Publication number
EP0446099B1
EP0446099B1 EP19910400509 EP91400509A EP0446099B1 EP 0446099 B1 EP0446099 B1 EP 0446099B1 EP 19910400509 EP19910400509 EP 19910400509 EP 91400509 A EP91400509 A EP 91400509A EP 0446099 B1 EP0446099 B1 EP 0446099B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
chamber
pipes
wall
conduits
fact
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status 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 status listed.)
Expired - Lifetime
Application number
EP19910400509
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP0446099A1 (en
Inventor
Daniel Huon
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Automobiles Peugeot SA
Automobiles Citroen SA
Original Assignee
Automobiles Peugeot SA
Automobiles Citroen SA
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 Automobiles Peugeot SA, Automobiles Citroen SA filed Critical Automobiles Peugeot SA
Publication of EP0446099A1 publication Critical patent/EP0446099A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP0446099B1 publication Critical patent/EP0446099B1/en
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical
Expired - Lifetime legal-status Critical Current

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Classifications

    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01P11/00—Component parts, details, or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F01P1/00 - F01P9/00
    • F01P11/04—Arrangements of liquid pipes or hoses
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01P11/00—Component parts, details, or accessories not provided for in, or of interest apart from, groups F01P1/00 - F01P9/00
    • F01P11/02—Liquid-coolant filling, overflow, venting, or draining devices
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01P7/00—Controlling of coolant flow
    • F01P7/14—Controlling of coolant flow the coolant being liquid
    • F01P2007/143—Controlling of coolant flow the coolant being liquid using restrictions
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01P2060/00—Cooling circuits using auxiliaries
    • F01P2060/04—Lubricant cooler
    • F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F01—MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; ENGINE PLANTS IN GENERAL; STEAM ENGINES
    • F01P—COOLING OF MACHINES OR ENGINES IN GENERAL; COOLING OF INTERNAL-COMBUSTION ENGINES
    • F01P3/00—Liquid cooling
    • F01P3/20—Cooling circuits not specific to a single part of engine or machine

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a compact four-way connector which can be used in particular on the cooling circuit of a motor vehicle.
  • the water cooling circuits of motor vehicle engines may include branches allowing for example to pass a secondary flow of cooling water through an oil radiator ensuring the cooling of the engine lubricant.
  • This bypass of reduced flow rate of cooling water can be ensured by a connector comprising four conduits opening into a chamber whose internal volume is separated into two parts by a diaphragm.
  • the connector comprises a line for the supply of cooling water into the chamber and a flow line placed in the axial extension of one another and connected to the axial ends of the chamber.
  • Two smaller cross-section ducts opening laterally into the chamber ensure reduced flow flow in bypass.
  • the diaphragm allows to exercise a certain retention on the water entering the chamber and to divert part of this water in one of the conduits of smaller section.
  • the second small section conduit allows the return of the water flow in diversion in the room then its circulation until the radiator of the vehicle with the main current leaving by the departure pipe.
  • the small section conduits are connected to the chamber by nozzles perpendicular to the axis of the chamber and open into the chamber on either side of the diaphragm, in zones spaced along the axial direction of the fitting.
  • Such a four-way connection which can be achieved by hooping flexible pipes between two envelopes rigid tubular constituting the wall of the chamber has a relatively large size, in particular in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the axial direction of the chamber and the main conduits.
  • the object of the invention is therefore to propose a four-way connector comprising a first and a second duct placed substantially in the axial extension of one another, a chamber having a wall of substantially cylindrical green shape at its axial ends. to which are connected the first and second conduits which open axially into the cylindrical chamber and a third and a fourth bypass conduits opening laterally into the cylindrical chamber in directions substantially perpendicular to the axis of the chamber and the first and second conduits (such a connector is shown in document FR-A-2 388 133), this connector having a reduced bulk, in particular in the axial direction of the chamber and the first and second conduits.
  • the third and fourth bypass conduits are connected to the cylindrical chamber by nozzles whose axes are located substantially in a transverse plane perpendicular to the axis of the chamber, arranged at least partially recessed inward. of the chamber, relative to the external surface of the wall of the chamber.
  • Figure 1 is a schematic view showing a cooling circuit of a motor vehicle comprising a four-way connector.
  • Figure 2 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of a four-way connector according to the prior art.
  • Figure 3 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of a connector according to the invention.
  • Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a connector according to the invention.
  • Figure 5 is a side perspective view of the connector according to the invention.
  • Figure 6 is a sectional view along 6-6 of Figure 5.
  • FIG. 7 is a sectional view along 7-7 of FIG. 6.
  • FIG. 8 is a top view along 8 of FIG. 5.
  • the cooling circuit of the engine 1 of a motor vehicle comprises a cylinder head 2 and a cylinder block 3.
  • the cooling water enters the liner of the cylinder block by an inlet pipe 4 and exits from the liner, at the level of the cylinder head 2, by a pipe of outlet 5.
  • the outlet pipe 5 is connected to the inlet of a radiator 6 ensuring the cooling of the water coming from the engine.
  • the inlet pipe 4 is connected to the outlet of the radiator 6 which supplies it with cooled water.
  • the engine cooling water thus circulates in a closed circuit.
  • An oil radiator 8 fixed on the cylinder block 3 of the engine makes it possible to cool the lubricant of the engine, by circulation of cooling water in the radiator 8.
  • Part of the cooling water circulating in the pipe 5, when the thermostatic valve 9 is open, is diverted at a four-way connection 10, in a pipe 11 connected to the radiator 8.
  • a pipe 12 allows the return of the cooling water from the radiator 8 in the pipe 5, at the connector 10 disposed on this pipe.
  • the four-way connection 10 comprises, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 (in in the case of a connector according to the prior art), a first conduit 14 and a second conduit 15 constituting extensions or parts of the pipe 5 on which the connector 10 is placed, as well as a chamber 16 of cylindrical shape and a third and a fourth conduits 17 and 18 constituting extensions or connecting parts of the pipes 11 and 12, respectively.
  • the conduits 14 and 15 are arranged in the axial extension of one another and open axially into the cylindrical chamber 16 comprising a tubular wall, open at its axial ends.
  • the conduits 17 and 18, the cross section of which is substantially less than the cross section of the conduits 14 and 15 have a direction perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 16 and of the conduits 14 and 15 and open, in the chamber 16, on both sides. other of the diaphragm 20.
  • the diaphragm 20 has a calibrated opening 20a, the size of which is such that the coolant entering the chamber 20 (arrow 21) is retained by the diaphragm and partially deflected in the duct 17.
  • This provides circulation of cooling water , with a reduced flow compared to the main flow, in the pipe 11, the radiator 8 and the pipe 12 which allows the return of the cooling water in the main pipe 5, via the second part of the chamber 16 (arrow 22).
  • the disadvantage of a four-way connector according to the prior art, such as the connector shown in FIG. 2, is that the branch lines 17 and 18 communicating with the two successive parts of the chamber 16 separated by the diaphragm 20 are arranged one after the other in the axial direction of the fitting or longitudinal direction.
  • FIG 3 there is shown schematically a connector 25 according to the invention.
  • the connector 25 comprises a first conduit 26 and a second conduit 27, a chamber 28 of cylindrical shape into which the conduits 26 and 27 open in the axial direction, and two branch conduits 29 and 30 whose axis has a direction perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28 and of the main conduits 26 and 27.
  • the chamber 28 is separated into two successive parts in the axial direction, by a diaphragm 31 having a calibrated opening 31a.
  • the connector according to the invention is essentially characterized by an arrangement of the conduits in bypass 29 and 30 such that the axes of these conduits are in a transverse plane 32 perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28 and of the conduits 26 and 27.
  • the third conduit 29 opens into the first part of the chamber 28 limited by the diaphragm 31 and communicating directly with the main inlet duct 26.
  • the fourth conduit 30 opens into the second part of the chamber 28 communicating directly with the main outlet conduit 27.
  • the wall of the diaphragm 31 is disposed transversely in the chamber 28 and in an inclined position relative to the plane 32 perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28, so that the conduits 29 and 30 can be arranged on either side of the wall 31.
  • conduits 29 and 30 are connected to the wall delimiting the chamber 28, so as to be set back towards the interior of the chamber 28.
  • FIGS. 4 to 8 there is shown, in more detail, an embodiment of a connector according to the invention produced according to the principle set out above with reference to FIG. 3.
  • the main conduits 26 and 27 of the connector 25 are constituted by straight rubber hoses such as those used to constitute the cooling circuit of a motor vehicle engine. Such conduits have a diameter of the order of 30 to 40 mm.
  • the bypass conduits 29 and 30 which have a substantially smaller diameter have curved parts making it possible to connect them either directly, or by means of connecting pipes to the member of the engine which is cooled.
  • the part initial of the conduits 29 and 30 follows a path substantially parallel to the main conduits 26 and 27.
  • the chamber 28 of the connector is delimited by a wall 35 constituted by an external envelope 35a and an internal envelope 35b, of generally tubular shape and attached to one another, in a coaxial arrangement.
  • the external envelope 35a and the internal envelope 35b delimit between them two annular spaces in which are engaged and shrunk the end parts of the conduits 26 and 27 opening into the chamber 28, so as to make a sealed junction of the conduits and of the wall 35, at each of the open axial ends of this wall 35.
  • the envelopes 35a and 35b have corresponding parts delimiting between them annular spaces in which the ends of the conduits 29 and 30 are engaged and constituting two nozzles 36 and 37 for connecting the conduits 29 and 30 respectively.
  • the conduits 29 and 30 are tightly connected to the wall 35 of the chamber 28 by means of the nozzles 36 and 37.
  • the nozzles 36 and 37 have a tubular shape and have axes whose direction is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of the chamber 28 and conduits 26 and 27 engaged axially in the end parts of the chamber 28.
  • the nozzles 36 and 37 are arranged laterally with respect to the envelope 35 of the chamber, in positions symmetrical with respect to the axial plane of trace 33 in FIG. 8 and 34 in FIG. 6, so that the axes of the nozzles 36 and 37 and conduits 29 and 30 are located substantially in a transverse plane of trace 32 in FIG. 8, perpendicular to the axial plane.
  • the nozzles 36 and 37 are placed in re-entrant positions relative to the external surface of the wall 35. This position of the nozzles 36 and 37 recessed towards the interior of the chamber makes it possible to reduce the size of the fitting in the transverse direction.
  • the internal envelope 35b of the wall 35 further comprises an annular wall projecting inwards constituting the diaphragm 31 having a calibrated central opening 31a.
  • the annular wall 31 is inclined relative to the transverse plane of trace 32 and relative to the axial plane of trace 33.
  • the nozzles 36 and 37 open into the chamber 28 on either side of the diaphragm 31 through openings such as 36a (FIG. 7) passing through the tubular envelope 35b.
  • the production of the seal can be carried out by overmolding of the external envelope 35a of the wall 35 on the internal envelope 35b after engagement of the rubber conduits 26, 27, 29 and 30 on the corresponding parts of the envelope internal 35b.
  • the envelopes 35a and 35b are made of a rigid plastic material capable of undergoing a certain shrinkage upon cooling. The hooping and the tight fixing of the conduits 26, 27, 29 and 30 on the wall 35 are thus produced during the cooling of the external envelope 35a.
  • the connector according to the invention has a reduced bulk in the longitudinal direction, that is to say in the axial direction of the main conduits.
  • the gain on the longitudinal dimensions of the connector can be of the order of 25 to 32 mm.
  • the transverse size of the connector remains relatively small insofar as the nozzles of the bypass conduits are set back towards the interior of the chamber of the connector.
  • the connector has a simple and compact shape facilitating its installation in an engine compartment of a motor vehicle.
  • the connector is also perfectly waterproof and reliable and its production can be easily automated.
  • the conduits can be produced in a different form of flexible rubber hoses and jar for example in the form of rigid tubular elements attached to the wall of the chamber or produced in one piece with this wall.
  • the four-way connection may have a chamber whose internal volume is divided by a wall constituting a diaphragm of any size and type or by a wall comprising an opening which can be closed by a member such as a valve.
  • the invention applies to four-way fittings which can be used not only in the field of automobile construction but also in other areas where it is necessary to reduce the size of connection parts of a circuit such as a cooling or hydraulic control circuit.

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  • Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
  • Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
  • Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
  • General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
  • Cooling, Air Intake And Gas Exhaust, And Fuel Tank Arrangements In Propulsion Units (AREA)
  • Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)

Description

L'invention concerne un raccord a quatre voies de forme compacte qui peut être utilisé en particulier sur le circuit de refroidissement d'un véhicule automobile.The invention relates to a compact four-way connector which can be used in particular on the cooling circuit of a motor vehicle.

Les circuits de refroidissement par eau des moteurs de véhicules automobiles peuvent comporter des dérivations permettant par exemple de faire passer un débit secondaire d'eau de refroidissement dans un radiateur d'huile assurant le refroidissement du lubrifiant du moteur.The water cooling circuits of motor vehicle engines may include branches allowing for example to pass a secondary flow of cooling water through an oil radiator ensuring the cooling of the engine lubricant.

Cette dérivation dur débit réduit d'eau de refroidissement peut être assurée par un raccord comportant quatre conduits débouchant dans une chambre dont le volume interne est séparé en deux parties par un diaphragme. Le raccord comporte une conduite d'arrivée de l'eau de refroidissement dans la chambre et un conduit de départ placés dans le prolongement axial l'un de l'autre et reliés aux extrémités axiales de la chambre. Deux conduits de plus faible section débouchant latéralement dans la chambre assurent une circulation du débit réduit en dérivation. Le diaphragme permet d'exercer une certaine retenue sur l'eau pénétrant dans la chambre et de dériver une partie de cette eau dans l'un des conduits de plus faible section. Le second conduit à faible section permet le retour du débit d'eau en dérivation dans la chambre puis sa circulation jusqu'au radiateur du véhicule avec le courant principal sortant par la conduite de départ.This bypass of reduced flow rate of cooling water can be ensured by a connector comprising four conduits opening into a chamber whose internal volume is separated into two parts by a diaphragm. The connector comprises a line for the supply of cooling water into the chamber and a flow line placed in the axial extension of one another and connected to the axial ends of the chamber. Two smaller cross-section ducts opening laterally into the chamber ensure reduced flow flow in bypass. The diaphragm allows to exercise a certain retention on the water entering the chamber and to divert part of this water in one of the conduits of smaller section. The second small section conduit allows the return of the water flow in diversion in the room then its circulation until the radiator of the vehicle with the main current leaving by the departure pipe.

Les conduits à faible section sont reliés à la chambre par des ajutages perpendiculaires à l'axe de la chambre et débouchent dans la chambre de part et d'autre du diaphragme, dans des zones espacées suivant la direction axiale du raccord.The small section conduits are connected to the chamber by nozzles perpendicular to the axis of the chamber and open into the chamber on either side of the diaphragm, in zones spaced along the axial direction of the fitting.

Un tel raccord à quatre voies qui peut être réalisé par frettage de tuyaux souples entre deux enveloppes tubulaires rigides constituant la paroi de la chambre présente un encombrement relativement important, en particulier dans la direction longitudinale correspondant à la direction axiale de la chambre et des conduits principaux.Such a four-way connection which can be achieved by hooping flexible pipes between two envelopes rigid tubular constituting the wall of the chamber has a relatively large size, in particular in the longitudinal direction corresponding to the axial direction of the chamber and the main conduits.

Cet encombrement représente un inconvénient notable, dans la mesure où le raccord est destiné à être placé sous le capot d'un véhicule automobile, dans le compartiment moteur, où la place est le plus souvent limitée.This size represents a significant drawback, insofar as the connector is intended to be placed under the hood of a motor vehicle, in the engine compartment, where space is most often limited.

Le but de l'invention est donc de proposer un raccord à quatre voies comportant un premier et un second conduits placés sensiblement dans le prolongement axial l'un de l'autre, une chambre ayant une paroi de forme sensiblement cylindrique verte à ses extrémités axiales auxquelles sont raccordés le premier et le second conduits qui débouchent axialement dans la chambre cylindrique et un troisième et un quatrième conduits en dérivation débouchant latéralement dans la chambre cylindrique dans des directions sensiblement perpendiculaires à l'axe de la chambre et des premier et second conduits (un tel raccord est montré dans le document FR-A-2 388 133), ce raccord présentant un encombrement réduit, en particulier dans la direction axiale de la chambre et du premier et du second conduits.The object of the invention is therefore to propose a four-way connector comprising a first and a second duct placed substantially in the axial extension of one another, a chamber having a wall of substantially cylindrical green shape at its axial ends. to which are connected the first and second conduits which open axially into the cylindrical chamber and a third and a fourth bypass conduits opening laterally into the cylindrical chamber in directions substantially perpendicular to the axis of the chamber and the first and second conduits ( such a connector is shown in document FR-A-2 388 133), this connector having a reduced bulk, in particular in the axial direction of the chamber and the first and second conduits.

Dans ce but, le troisième et le quatrième conduits en dérivation sont raccordés à la chambre cylindrique par des ajutages dont les axes sont situés sensiblement dans un plan transversal perpendiculaire à l'axe de la chambre, disposés au moins partiellement en retrait vers l'intérieur de la chambre, par rapport à la surface externe de la paroi de la chambre.For this purpose, the third and fourth bypass conduits are connected to the cylindrical chamber by nozzles whose axes are located substantially in a transverse plane perpendicular to the axis of the chamber, arranged at least partially recessed inward. of the chamber, relative to the external surface of the wall of the chamber.

Afin de bien faire comprendre l'invention, on va maintenant décrire, à titre d'exemple non limitatif, en se référant aux figures jointes en annexe, un mode de réalisation d'un raccord à quatre voies suivant l'invention, comparativement à un raccord suivant l'art antérieur.In order to clearly understand the invention, a description will now be given, by way of nonlimiting example, with reference to the attached figures, of an embodiment of a four-way connector according to the invention, compared to a connector according to the prior art.

La figure 1 est une vue schématique montrant un circuit de refroidissement d'un véhicule automobile comprenant un raccord à quatre voies.Figure 1 is a schematic view showing a cooling circuit of a motor vehicle comprising a four-way connector.

La figure 2 est une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale d'un raccord à quatre voies suivant l'art antérieur.Figure 2 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of a four-way connector according to the prior art.

La figure 3 est une vue schématique en coupe longitudinale d'un raccord suivant l'invention.Figure 3 is a schematic view in longitudinal section of a connector according to the invention.

La figure 4 est une vue en perspective et de dessus d'un raccord suivant l'invention.Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a connector according to the invention.

La figure 5 est une vue latérale en perspective du raccord suivant l'invention.Figure 5 is a side perspective view of the connector according to the invention.

La figure 6 est une vue en coupe suivant 6-6 de la figure 5.Figure 6 is a sectional view along 6-6 of Figure 5.

La figure 7 est une vue en coupe suivant 7-7 de la figure 6.FIG. 7 is a sectional view along 7-7 of FIG. 6.

La figure 8 est une vue de dessus suivant 8 de la figure 5.FIG. 8 is a top view along 8 of FIG. 5.

Sur la figure 1, on voit le circuit de refroidissement du moteur 1 d'un véhicule automobile. Le moteur 1 comporte une culasse 2 et un bloc-cylindres 3. L'eau de refroidissement pénètre dans le chemisage du bloc-cylindres par une canalisation d'entrée 4 et ressort du chemisage, au niveau de la culasse 2, par une canalisation de sortie 5. La canalisation de sortie 5 est reliée à l'entrée d'un radiateur 6 assurant le refroidissement de l'eau provenant du moteur. La canalisation d'entrée 4 est reliée à la sortie du radiateur 6 qui assure son alimentation en eau refroidie. L'eau de refroidissement du moteur circule ainsi en circuit fermé.In Figure 1, we see the cooling circuit of the engine 1 of a motor vehicle. The engine 1 comprises a cylinder head 2 and a cylinder block 3. The cooling water enters the liner of the cylinder block by an inlet pipe 4 and exits from the liner, at the level of the cylinder head 2, by a pipe of outlet 5. The outlet pipe 5 is connected to the inlet of a radiator 6 ensuring the cooling of the water coming from the engine. The inlet pipe 4 is connected to the outlet of the radiator 6 which supplies it with cooled water. The engine cooling water thus circulates in a closed circuit.

Un radiateur d'huile 8 fixé sur le bloc-cylindres 3 du moteur permet de refroidir le lubrifiant du moteur, par circulation d'eau de refroidissement dans le radiateur 8. Une partie de l'eau de refroidissement circulant dans la canalisation 5, lorsque la soupape thermostatique 9 est ouverte, est dérivée au niveau d'un raccord à quatre voies 10, dans une canalisation 11 reliée au radiateur 8. Une canalisation 12 permet le retour de l'eau de refroidissement du radiateur 8 dans la canalisation 5, au niveau du raccord 10 disposé sur cette canalisation.An oil radiator 8 fixed on the cylinder block 3 of the engine makes it possible to cool the lubricant of the engine, by circulation of cooling water in the radiator 8. Part of the cooling water circulating in the pipe 5, when the thermostatic valve 9 is open, is diverted at a four-way connection 10, in a pipe 11 connected to the radiator 8. A pipe 12 allows the return of the cooling water from the radiator 8 in the pipe 5, at the connector 10 disposed on this pipe.

Le refroidissement du moteur et du lubrifiant sont assurés simultanément lorsque la température du moteur dépasse un certain seuil correspondant à l'ouverture de la vanne thermostatique 9. Le raccord à quatre voies 10 comporte, comme il est visible sur les figures 1 et 2 (dans le cas d'un raccord suivant l'art antérieur), un premier conduit 14 et un second conduit 15 constituant des prolongements ou des parties de la canalisation 5 sur laquelle est placé le raccord 10, ainsi qu'une chambre 16 de forme cylindrique et un troisième et un quatrième conduits 17 et 18 constituant des prolongements ou des parties de raccordement des canalisations 11 et 12, respectivement.The engine and the lubricant are cooled simultaneously when the engine temperature exceeds a certain threshold corresponding to the opening of the thermostatic valve 9. The four-way connection 10 comprises, as can be seen in FIGS. 1 and 2 (in in the case of a connector according to the prior art), a first conduit 14 and a second conduit 15 constituting extensions or parts of the pipe 5 on which the connector 10 is placed, as well as a chamber 16 of cylindrical shape and a third and a fourth conduits 17 and 18 constituting extensions or connecting parts of the pipes 11 and 12, respectively.

Les conduits 14 et 15 sont disposés dans le prolongement axial l'un de l'autre et débouchent axialement dans la chambre cylindrique 16 comportant une paroi tubulaire, ouverte à ses extrémités axiales.The conduits 14 and 15 are arranged in the axial extension of one another and open axially into the cylindrical chamber 16 comprising a tubular wall, open at its axial ends.

Un diaphragme 20 disposé transversalement sépare le volume de la chambre 16 en deux parties successives dans la direction axiale.A diaphragm 20 arranged transversely separates the volume of the chamber 16 into two successive parts in the axial direction.

Les conduits 17 et 18 dont la section est sensiblement inférieure à la section des conduits 14 et 15 ont une direction perpendiculaire à l'axe de la chambre 16 et des conduits 14 et 15 et débouchent, dans la chambre 16, de part et d'autre du diaphragme 20.The conduits 17 and 18, the cross section of which is substantially less than the cross section of the conduits 14 and 15 have a direction perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 16 and of the conduits 14 and 15 and open, in the chamber 16, on both sides. other of the diaphragm 20.

Le diaphragme 20 présente une ouverture calibrée 20a dont la dimension est telle que le liquide de refroidissement pénétrant dans la chambre 20 (flèche 21) soit retenu par le diaphragme et dévié partiellement dans le conduit 17. On assure ainsi une circulation d'eau de refroidissement, avec un débit réduit par rapport au débit principal, dans la canalisation 11, le radiateur 8 et la canalisation 12 qui permet le retour de l'eau de refroidissement dans la canalisation principale 5, par l'intermédiaire de la seconde partie de la chambre 16 (flèche 22).The diaphragm 20 has a calibrated opening 20a, the size of which is such that the coolant entering the chamber 20 (arrow 21) is retained by the diaphragm and partially deflected in the duct 17. This provides circulation of cooling water , with a reduced flow compared to the main flow, in the pipe 11, the radiator 8 and the pipe 12 which allows the return of the cooling water in the main pipe 5, via the second part of the chamber 16 (arrow 22).

L'inconvénient d'un raccord à quatre voies selon l'art antérieur, tel que le raccord représenté sur la figure 2, est que les conduits en dérivation 17 et 18 communiquant avec les deux parties successives de la chambre 16 séparées par le diaphragme 20 sont disposés l'un à la suite de l'autre dans la direction axiale du raccord ou direction longitudinale.The disadvantage of a four-way connector according to the prior art, such as the connector shown in FIG. 2, is that the branch lines 17 and 18 communicating with the two successive parts of the chamber 16 separated by the diaphragm 20 are arranged one after the other in the axial direction of the fitting or longitudinal direction.

Il en résulte un encombrement du racccord qui peut être important, en particulier dans la direction longitudinale.This results in congestion of the connection which can be significant, in particular in the longitudinal direction.

Sur la figure 3, on a représenté de manière schématique un raccord 25 suivant l'invention.In Figure 3, there is shown schematically a connector 25 according to the invention.

Le raccord 25 comporte un premier conduit 26 et un second conduit 27, une chambre 28 de forme cylindrique dans laquelle débouchent les conduits 26 et 27 dans la direction axiale, et deux conduits en dérivation 29 et 30 dont l'axe a une direction perpendiculaire à l'axe de la chambre 28 et des conduits principaux 26 et 27.The connector 25 comprises a first conduit 26 and a second conduit 27, a chamber 28 of cylindrical shape into which the conduits 26 and 27 open in the axial direction, and two branch conduits 29 and 30 whose axis has a direction perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28 and of the main conduits 26 and 27.

La chambre 28 est séparée en deux parties successives dans la direction axiale, par un diaphragme 31 ayant une ouverture calibrée 31a.The chamber 28 is separated into two successive parts in the axial direction, by a diaphragm 31 having a calibrated opening 31a.

Le raccord suivant l'invention est caractérisé essentiellement par une disposition des conduits en dérivation 29 et 30 telle que les axes de ces conduits se trouvent dans un plan transversal 32 perpendiculaire à l'axe de la chambre 28 et des conduits 26 et 27. Le troisième conduit 29 débouche dans la première partie de la chambre 28 limitée par le diaphragme 31 et communiquant directement avec le conduit principal d'entrée 26.The connector according to the invention is essentially characterized by an arrangement of the conduits in bypass 29 and 30 such that the axes of these conduits are in a transverse plane 32 perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28 and of the conduits 26 and 27. The third conduit 29 opens into the first part of the chamber 28 limited by the diaphragm 31 and communicating directly with the main inlet duct 26.

Le quatrième conduit 30 débouche dans la seconde partie de la chambre 28 communiquant directement avec le conduit principal de sortie 27.The fourth conduit 30 opens into the second part of the chamber 28 communicating directly with the main outlet conduit 27.

La paroi du diaphragme 31 est disposée transversalement dans la chambre 28 et dans une position inclinée par rapport au plan 32 perpendiculaire à l'axe de la chambre 28, de manière que les conduits 29 et 30 puissent être disposés de part et d'autre de la paroi 31.The wall of the diaphragm 31 is disposed transversely in the chamber 28 and in an inclined position relative to the plane 32 perpendicular to the axis of the chamber 28, so that the conduits 29 and 30 can be arranged on either side of the wall 31.

De plus, les conduits 29 et 30 sont raccordés à la paroi délimitant la chambre 28, de manière à se trouver en retrait vers l'intérieur de la chambre 28.In addition, the conduits 29 and 30 are connected to the wall delimiting the chamber 28, so as to be set back towards the interior of the chamber 28.

Sur les figures 4 à 8, on a représenté, de manière plus détaillée, un mode de réalisation d'un raccord suivant l'invention réalisé suivant le principe exposé ci-dessus en regard de la figure 3.In FIGS. 4 to 8, there is shown, in more detail, an embodiment of a connector according to the invention produced according to the principle set out above with reference to FIG. 3.

Les éléments correspondants sur la figure 3 d'une part et sur les figures 4 à 8 d'autre part portent les mêmes repères.The corresponding elements in FIG. 3 on the one hand and in FIGS. 4 to 8 on the other hand bear the same references.

Les conduits principaux 26 et 27 du raccord 25 sont constitués par des tuyaux de caoutchouc rectilignes tels que ceux utilisés pour constituer le circuit de refroidissement d'un moteur de véhicule automobile. De tels conduits ont un diamètre de l'ordre de 30 à 40 mm. Les conduits en dérivation 29 et 30 qui ont un diamètre sensiblement inférieur présentent des parties courbes permettant de les relier soit directement, soit par l'intermédiaire de tuyauteries de liaison à l'organe du moteur dont on assure le refroidissement. La partie initiale des conduits 29 et 30 suit un trajet sensiblement parallèle aux conduits principaux 26 et 27.The main conduits 26 and 27 of the connector 25 are constituted by straight rubber hoses such as those used to constitute the cooling circuit of a motor vehicle engine. Such conduits have a diameter of the order of 30 to 40 mm. The bypass conduits 29 and 30 which have a substantially smaller diameter have curved parts making it possible to connect them either directly, or by means of connecting pipes to the member of the engine which is cooled. The part initial of the conduits 29 and 30 follows a path substantially parallel to the main conduits 26 and 27.

La chambre 28 du raccord est délimitée par une paroi 35 constituée par une enveloppe externe 35a et une enveloppe interne 35b, de forme globalement tubulaire et rapportées l'une sur l'autre, dans une disposition coaxiale.The chamber 28 of the connector is delimited by a wall 35 constituted by an external envelope 35a and an internal envelope 35b, of generally tubular shape and attached to one another, in a coaxial arrangement.

Comme il est visible en particulier sur la figure 7, l'enveloppe externe 35a et l'enveloppe interne 35b délimitent entre elles deux espaces annulaires dans lesquels sont engagées et frettées les parties d'extrémité des conduits 26 et 27 débouchant dans la chambre 28, de manière à réaliser une jonction étanche des conduits et de la paroi 35, à chacune des extrémités axiales ouvertes de cette paroi 35.As can be seen in particular in FIG. 7, the external envelope 35a and the internal envelope 35b delimit between them two annular spaces in which are engaged and shrunk the end parts of the conduits 26 and 27 opening into the chamber 28, so as to make a sealed junction of the conduits and of the wall 35, at each of the open axial ends of this wall 35.

Comme il est visible en particulier sur les figures 5 et 6, les enveloppes 35a et 35b comportent des parties correspondantes délimitant entre elles des espaces annulaires dans lesquels sont engagées les extrémités des conduits 29 et 30 et constituant deux ajutages 36 et 37 de raccordement des conduits 29 et 30 respectivement. Les conduits 29 et 30 sont raccordés de manière étanche à la paroi 35 de la chambre 28 par l'intermédiaire des ajutages 36 et 37.As can be seen in particular in FIGS. 5 and 6, the envelopes 35a and 35b have corresponding parts delimiting between them annular spaces in which the ends of the conduits 29 and 30 are engaged and constituting two nozzles 36 and 37 for connecting the conduits 29 and 30 respectively. The conduits 29 and 30 are tightly connected to the wall 35 of the chamber 28 by means of the nozzles 36 and 37.

Les ajutages 36 et 37 ont une forme tubulaire et présentent des axes dont la direction est perpendiculaire à la direction de l'axe le la chambre 28 et des conduits 26 et 27 engagés axialement dans les parties d'extrémité de la chambre 28. Les ajutages 36 et 37 sont disposés latéralement par rapport à l'enveloppe 35 de la chambre, dans des positions symétriques par rapport au plan axial de trace 33 sur la figure 8 et 34 sur la figure 6, de manière que les axes des ajutages 36 et 37 et des conduits 29 et 30 se trouvent sensiblement dans un plan transversal de trace 32 sur la figure 8, perpendiculaire au plan axial.The nozzles 36 and 37 have a tubular shape and have axes whose direction is perpendicular to the direction of the axis of the chamber 28 and conduits 26 and 27 engaged axially in the end parts of the chamber 28. The nozzles 36 and 37 are arranged laterally with respect to the envelope 35 of the chamber, in positions symmetrical with respect to the axial plane of trace 33 in FIG. 8 and 34 in FIG. 6, so that the axes of the nozzles 36 and 37 and conduits 29 and 30 are located substantially in a transverse plane of trace 32 in FIG. 8, perpendicular to the axial plane.

De plus, les ajutages 36 et 37 sont placés dans des positions rentrantes par rapport à la surface externe de la paroi 35. Cette position des ajutages 36 et 37 en retrait vers l'intérieur de la chambre permet de diminuer l'encombrement du raccord dans la direction transversale.In addition, the nozzles 36 and 37 are placed in re-entrant positions relative to the external surface of the wall 35. This position of the nozzles 36 and 37 recessed towards the interior of the chamber makes it possible to reduce the size of the fitting in the transverse direction.

L'enveloppe interne 35b de la paroi 35 comporte de plus une paroi annulaire en saillie vers l'intérieur constituant le diaphragme 31 présentant une ouverture centrale calibrée 31a. Comme il est visible sur la figure 8, la paroi annulaire 31 est inclinée par rapport au plan transversal de trace 32 et par rapport au plan axial de trace 33.The internal envelope 35b of the wall 35 further comprises an annular wall projecting inwards constituting the diaphragm 31 having a calibrated central opening 31a. As can be seen in FIG. 8, the annular wall 31 is inclined relative to the transverse plane of trace 32 and relative to the axial plane of trace 33.

Les ajutages 36 et 37 débouchent dans la chambre 28 de part et d'autre du diaphragme 31 par des ouvertures telles que 36a (figure 7) traversant l'enveloppe tubulaire 35b.The nozzles 36 and 37 open into the chamber 28 on either side of the diaphragm 31 through openings such as 36a (FIG. 7) passing through the tubular envelope 35b.

De manière préférentielle, la réalisation du joint peut être effectuée par surmoulage de l'enveloppe externe 35a de la paroi 35 sur l'enveloppe interne 35b après engagement des conduits en caoutchouc 26, 27, 29 et 30 sur les parties correspondantes de l'enveloppe interne 35b.Preferably, the production of the seal can be carried out by overmolding of the external envelope 35a of the wall 35 on the internal envelope 35b after engagement of the rubber conduits 26, 27, 29 and 30 on the corresponding parts of the envelope internal 35b.

Les enveloppes 35a et 35b sont réalisées en une matière plastique rigide susceptible de subir un certain retrait au refroidissement. Le frettage et la fixation étanche des conduits 26, 27, 29 et 30 sur la paroi 35 sont ainsi réalisés lors du refroidissement de l'enveloppe externe 35a.The envelopes 35a and 35b are made of a rigid plastic material capable of undergoing a certain shrinkage upon cooling. The hooping and the tight fixing of the conduits 26, 27, 29 and 30 on the wall 35 are thus produced during the cooling of the external envelope 35a.

Le raccord suivant l'invention présente un encombrement réduit dans la direction longitudinale, c'est-à-dire suivant la direction axiale des conduits principaux. Dans le cas d'un raccord dont les conduits principaux ont un diamètre de l'ordre de 30 à 40 mm, le gain sur l'encombrement longitudinal du raccord peut être de l'ordre de 25 à 32 mm.The connector according to the invention has a reduced bulk in the longitudinal direction, that is to say in the axial direction of the main conduits. In the case of a fitting whose conduits main ones have a diameter of the order of 30 to 40 mm, the gain on the longitudinal dimensions of the connector can be of the order of 25 to 32 mm.

L'encombrement transversal du raccord reste relativement faible dans la mesure où les ajutages des conduits en dérivation sont en retrait vers l'intérieur de la chambre du raccord.The transverse size of the connector remains relatively small insofar as the nozzles of the bypass conduits are set back towards the interior of the chamber of the connector.

En outre, le raccord présente une forme simple et compacte facilitant sa mise en place dans un compartiment moteur de véhicule automobile.In addition, the connector has a simple and compact shape facilitating its installation in an engine compartment of a motor vehicle.

Le raccord est également parfaitement étanche et fiable et sa réalisation peut être facilement automatisée.The connector is also perfectly waterproof and reliable and its production can be easily automated.

L'invention ne se limite pas au mode de réalisation qui a été décrit.The invention is not limited to the embodiment which has been described.

Les conduits peuvent être réalisés sous une forme différente de tuyaux souples en caoutchouc et jar exemple sous la forme d'éléments tubulaires rigides rapportés sur la paroi de la chambre ou réalisés d'une seule pièce avec cette paroi.The conduits can be produced in a different form of flexible rubber hoses and jar for example in the form of rigid tubular elements attached to the wall of the chamber or produced in one piece with this wall.

Le raccord à quatre voies pourra présenter une chambre dont le volume intérieur est divisé par une paroi constituant un diaphragme de dimension et de type quelconque ou encore par une paroi comportant une ouverture obturable par un organe tel qu'une soupape.The four-way connection may have a chamber whose internal volume is divided by a wall constituting a diaphragm of any size and type or by a wall comprising an opening which can be closed by a member such as a valve.

L'invention s'applique à les raccords à quatre voies utilisables non seulement dans le domaine de la construction automobile mais encore dans d'autres domaines où il est nécessaire de réduire l'encombrement de pièces de raccordement d'un circuit tel qu'un circuit de refroidissement ou de commande hydraulique.The invention applies to four-way fittings which can be used not only in the field of automobile construction but also in other areas where it is necessary to reduce the size of connection parts of a circuit such as a cooling or hydraulic control circuit.

Claims (6)

  1. Four-way connection having first and second pipes (26, 27) located substantially in line with each other axially, a chamber (28) having a wall (35) which is substantially cylindrical in shape, open at its axial ends, to which are connected the first and second pipes (26, 27) which open out axially into the chamber (28), and third and fourth diversion pipes (29, 30) opening out laterally into the cylindrical chamber (28) in directions substantially perpendicular to the axes of the chamber (28) and of the first and second pipes (26, 27), characterised by the fact that the third and fourth diversion pipes (29, 30) are connected to the cylindrical chamber (28) by couplings (36, 37), the axes of which are situated substantially in a transverse plane (32) perpendicular to the axis of the chamber (28), disposed so as to be at least partially recessed towards the inside of the chamber (28) with respect to the external surface of the wall (35) of the chamber (28).
  2. Connection according to Claim 1, characterised by the fact that a wall (31) with an orifice (31a) passing through it is disposed transversely in the chamber (28) in a position inclined with respect to the transverse plane (32) and with respect to the axis of the chamber (28), so that the couplings (36, 37) of the third and fourth pipes (29, 30) open out into the chamber (28), on each side of the wall (31).
  3. Connection according to either one of Claims 1 and 2, characterised by the fact that the wall (35) of the chamber (28) consists of an outer casing (35a) and an inner casing (35b) substantially tubular in shape, attached to each other so as to achieve fluidtight fixing by clamping of the pipes (26, 27, 29, 30) between the two casings, the couplings (36, 37) being formed by corresponding parts of the casings (35a, 35b) disposed so as to be at least partially recessed towards the inside of the chamber (28).
  4. Connection according to Claim 3, characterised by the fact that the inner casing (35b) has an annular part (31) projecting towards the outside of the chamber (28) constituting a transverse diaphragm with a calibrated opening (31a) separating the internal volume of the chamber (28) into two parts, into each of which a coupling (36, 37) opens out through an opening (36a) passing through the inner casing (35b).
  5. Connection according to either one of Claims 3 and 4, characterised by the fact that the pipes (26, 27, 29, 30) consist of flexible rubber hoses and the casings (35a and 35b) consist of components made from a rigid plastic material.
  6. Use of a connection according to any one of the preceding claims on the cooling system of a motor vehicle.
EP19910400509 1990-03-05 1991-02-25 Compact four-way connector and its application in the cooling system of a motor vehicle Expired - Lifetime EP0446099B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR9002745 1990-03-05
FR9002745A FR2659127B1 (en) 1990-03-05 1990-03-05 FOUR-WAY CONNECTION OF COMPACT FORM AND ITS USE ON THE COOLING CIRCUIT OF A MOTOR VEHICLE.

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP0446099A1 EP0446099A1 (en) 1991-09-11
EP0446099B1 true EP0446099B1 (en) 1993-05-26

Family

ID=9394378

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP19910400509 Expired - Lifetime EP0446099B1 (en) 1990-03-05 1991-02-25 Compact four-way connector and its application in the cooling system of a motor vehicle

Country Status (4)

Country Link
EP (1) EP0446099B1 (en)
DE (1) DE69100088T2 (en)
ES (1) ES2041195T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2659127B1 (en)

Families Citing this family (5)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2821120B1 (en) * 2001-02-19 2003-04-18 Renault DEVICE AND METHOD FOR COOLING A CONTROL UNIT OF A HEAT ENGINE
FR2849107B1 (en) * 2002-12-19 2006-03-03 Renault Sa COOLING CIRCUIT COMPRISING A FEEDBACK OF AN EXCHANGER
GB0423804D0 (en) * 2004-10-27 2004-12-01 Ford Global Tech Llc Engine cooling system
EP2100013B1 (en) 2006-10-27 2015-01-14 Teklas Kaucuk Sanayi Ve Ticaret Anonim Sirketi A multiway distribution connector element for cooling circuits
DE102021205021A1 (en) * 2021-05-18 2022-11-24 Psa Automobiles Sa Line element for a liquid-cooled component of an internal combustion engine

Family Cites Families (3)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
GB457617A (en) * 1935-06-01 1936-12-01 Bruce & Holroyd Ltd Improvements in or relating to engine cooling systems
FR2388133A1 (en) * 1977-04-19 1978-11-17 Renault Cooling water system for vehicle engine - has air vents for branch circuits linked into radiator vapour release pipe
FR2571431B1 (en) * 1984-10-09 1989-04-21 Renault Vehicules Ind COOLING DEVICE FOR AN INTERNAL COMBUSTION ENGINE

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
DE69100088D1 (en) 1993-07-01
FR2659127B1 (en) 1992-07-03
EP0446099A1 (en) 1991-09-11
DE69100088T2 (en) 1993-09-02
FR2659127A1 (en) 1991-09-06
ES2041195T3 (en) 1993-11-01

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