Clutch device and motorcycle

Abstract

The present invention provides a clutch device and a motorcycle. The clutch device comprises: a clutch center; and a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center and relatively rotate, and can press an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate, and the pressure plate comprises: a plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth, which hold the output-side rotating plate and are formed in a manner of protruding radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and arranged in the circumferential direction (S); and an oil flow path, which is formed at an end of the pressure-side engaging teeth in a first direction, and the oil flow path discharges at least the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall to the outside of the pressure plate.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese invention patent application No. 2022-145633 filed on September 13, 2022 and Japanese invention patent application No. 2023-054234 filed on March 29, 2023, the entire contents of which are incorporated into this specification by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention relates to a clutch device and a motorcycle, and more particularly to a clutch device for arbitrarily transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft rotationally driven by a prime mover such as an engine to an output shaft, and a motorcycle equipped with the clutch device. Background Art

[0004] In the past, vehicles such as motorcycles were equipped with clutch devices. The clutch device is arranged between the engine and the drive wheel, and transmits the rotational driving force of the engine to the drive wheel or cuts off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the engine to the drive wheel. The clutch device usually includes a plurality of input-side rotating plates that rotate by the rotational driving force of the engine and a plurality of output-side rotating plates connected to an output shaft that transmits the rotational driving force to the drive wheel. The input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates are alternately arranged in the stacking direction, and the rotational driving force is transmitted or cut off by pressing the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates into and away from each other.

[0005] For example, Japanese Patent No. 6894972 and International Publication No. 2018 / 172176 disclose a clutch device including a clutch center and a pressure plate arranged to be close to and away from the clutch center. The pressure plate is configured to press the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. In this way, in the clutch device, the clutch center and the pressure plate are assembled for use.

[0006] In addition, in the clutch device of Japanese Patent No. 6894972, as a part for holding the output side rotating plate, the clutch center has center side engaging teeth (an outer peripheral wall formed with splines), and the pressure plate has pressure side engaging teeth. On the other hand, in the clutch device of International Publication No. 2018 / 172176, as a part for holding the output side rotating plate, the pressure plate has pressure side engaging teeth (an outer peripheral wall formed with splines).

[0007] However, in the clutch device of Japanese Patent No. 6894972, the clutch oil flowing out of the output shaft circulates inside the pressure plate. A part of the clutch oil flows to the outside of the pressure plate through the clutch center and the pressure plate. Here, an input side rotating plate and an output side rotating plate held by the pressure side engaging teeth are arranged outside the pressure plate. Therefore, it is desired to efficiently flow the clutch oil from the inside of the pressure plate and supply the clutch oil to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

[0008] The present invention is completed in view of this point, and its purpose is to provide a clutch device and a motorcycle equipped with the clutch device, which can make the clutch oil flow efficiently from the inside to the outside of the pressure plate and supply the clutch oil to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. Summary of the invention

[0009] The clutch device involved in the present invention is a clutch device that transmits the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft or cuts off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, wherein the clutch device comprises: a clutch center that is accommodated in a clutch housing and is driven to rotate together with the output shaft, the clutch housing holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are driven to rotate by the rotational drive of the input shaft; and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center and to be able to rotate relatively, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is able to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and moves away from the clutch center is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center is set as the second direction, the pressure plate comprises: an annular outer peripheral wall extending along the moving direction; a plurality of pressure side engaging teeth that hold the output side rotating plate and are formed in a manner protruding radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction; and an oil flow path formed at the end of the pressure side engaging teeth in the first direction, the oil flow path at least discharges the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall to the outside of the pressure plate.

[0010] According to the clutch device involved in the present invention, the oil flow path of the pressure plate is formed at the end of the first direction of the pressure side engaging tooth, and at least the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall is discharged to the outside of the pressure plate. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing between the clutch center and the pressure plate flows more to the outside of the pressure plate through the oil flow path. That is, since more clutch oil flows from the inside of the pressure plate, the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

[0011] In addition, another clutch device involved in the present invention is a clutch device that transmits the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft or cuts off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, wherein the clutch device comprises: a clutch center that is accommodated in a clutch housing and is driven to rotate together with the output shaft, the clutch housing holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are driven to rotate by the rotational drive of the input shaft; and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center and to be able to rotate relatively, and that holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates and is able to press the input-side rotating plates and the output shaft. The output-side rotating plate, when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and moves away from the clutch center is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center is set as the second direction, the pressure plate comprises: an annular outer peripheral wall extending along the moving direction; a plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth, which hold the output-side rotating plate and are formed in a manner protruding radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction; and a recessed portion, which is recessed from the end surface of the pressure-side engaging tooth in the first direction toward the second direction, and the recessed portion is open toward the inner peripheral surface side and the outer peripheral side surface of the outer peripheral wall.

[0012] According to another clutch device involved in the present invention, the pressure plate has a recessed portion that is recessed from the end surface of the pressure side engaging tooth in the first direction toward the second direction, and the recessed portion is open toward the inner peripheral surface side and the outer peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall. Therefore, for example, when the pressure plate rotates, the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall can flow toward the outer peripheral surface side via the recessed portion, and the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate.

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device capable of allowing clutch oil to flow efficiently from the inside to the outside of a pressure plate and supplying clutch oil to an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate.

[0014] The above and other elements, features, steps, characteristics and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0015] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device according to one embodiment.

[0016] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of the clutch center according to one embodiment.

[0017] Figure 3A FIG. 1 is a top view of a clutch center according to one embodiment.

[0018] Figure 3B This is an enlarged plan view of an oil flow path and its surrounding structure according to one embodiment.

[0019] Figure 3C It is along Figure 3B Cross-sectional view of IIIC-IIIC.

[0020] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate involved in one embodiment.

[0021] Figure 5 The figure is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0022] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate involved in one embodiment.

[0023] Figure 7 The figure is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment.

[0024] Figure 8 It is a plan view showing a state in which a clutch center and a pressure plate are combined according to one embodiment.

[0025] Fig.9A This is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the center-side auxiliary cam surface and the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface.

[0026] Fig. 9B This is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the center side sliding cam surface and the pressure side sliding cam surface.

[0027] Fig.10 FIG. 1 is a side view of a clutch center according to one embodiment.

[0028] Fig.11 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center and a pressure plate according to another embodiment.

[0029] Fig.12 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate involved in another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0030] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the clutch device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described here is of course not intended to limit the present invention. In addition, the same reference numerals are marked on the components and parts that play the same role, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted or simplified.

[0031] <First embodiment>

[0032] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device 10 according to a first embodiment. The clutch device 10 is provided in a vehicle such as a motorcycle, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of the motorcycle engine to the output shaft 15 or for cutting off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of the motorcycle engine to the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the drive wheel (rear wheel) via the output shaft 15 or for cutting off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the drive wheel (rear wheel). The clutch device 10 is arranged between the engine and the transmission.

[0033] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 is arranged with the clutch center 40 is referred to as the direction D, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center 40 is referred to as the first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 moves away from the clutch center 40 is referred to as the second direction D2. In addition, the circumferential direction of the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 is referred to as the circumferential direction S, and the direction from the pressure side cam portion 90 on one side toward the pressure side cam portion 90 on the other side in the circumferential direction S is referred to as the first circumferential direction S1 (refer to Figure 5 ), the direction from the other pressure side cam portion 90 toward the one pressure side cam portion 90 is defined as the second circumferential direction S2 (refer to Figure 5 ). In the present embodiment, the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the axial direction of the clutch housing 30, the axial direction of the clutch center 40, and the axial direction of the pressure plate 70 are the same direction as the direction D. In addition, the pressure plate 70 and the clutch center 40 rotate in the first circumferential direction S1. However, the above directions are merely directions determined for the convenience of explanation, and do not limit the setting method of the clutch device 10 in any way, nor do they limit the present invention in any way.

[0034] like Figure 1 As shown in the figure, the output shaft 15 is a shaft body formed in a hollow shape. The end of one side of the output shaft 15 supports the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 described later via a needle bearing 15A so that they can rotate freely. The output shaft 15 fixedly supports the clutch center 40 via a nut 15B. That is, the output shaft 15 rotates integrally with the clutch center 40. The end of the other side of the output shaft 15 is connected to, for example, a transmission (not shown) of a motorcycle.

[0035] like Figure 1As shown, the output shaft 15 has a push rod 16A and a pressing member 16B disposed adjacent to the push rod 16A in the hollow portion 15H thereof. The hollow portion 15H has a function as a flow passage for clutch oil. The clutch oil flows in the output shaft 15, that is, in the hollow portion 15H. The push rod 16A and the pressing member 16B are arranged to be able to slide in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15. One end portion (the end portion on the left side in the figure) of the push rod 16A is connected to the clutch operating lever (not shown) of the motorcycle, and the push rod 16A slides in the hollow portion 15H by operating the clutch operating lever, pressing the pressing member 16B in the second direction D2. A portion of the pressing member 16B protrudes to the outside of the output shaft 15 (here, the second direction D2), and is connected to the distance bearing 18 disposed on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the pressing member 16B are formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the hollow portion 15H, and the flowability of the clutch oil is ensured in the hollow portion 15H.

[0036] The clutch housing 30 is formed of an aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. Figure 1 As shown, the clutch housing 30 includes a bottom wall 31 formed in a substantially circular shape and a side wall 33 extending in the second direction D2 from an edge of the bottom wall 31. The clutch housing 30 holds a plurality of input-side rotation plates 20.

[0037] like Figure 1 As shown, an input gear 35 is provided on the bottom wall 31 of the clutch housing 30. The input gear 35 is fixed to the bottom wall 31 via a torque damper 35A by a rivet 35B. The input gear 35 is meshed with a drive gear (not shown) that is rotated by the rotation drive of the input shaft of the engine. The input gear 35 is independently driven to rotate integrally with the clutch housing 30 from the output shaft 15.

[0038] The input side rotating plate 20 is driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft. Figure 1 As shown, the input side rotating plate 20 is held on the inner peripheral surface of the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The input side rotating plate 20 is held in the clutch housing 30 by spline fitting. The input side rotating plate 20 is arranged to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch housing 30. The input side rotating plate 20 is arranged to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0039] The input side rotating plate 20 is a component pressed against the output side rotating plate 22. The input side rotating plate 20 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The input side rotating plate 20 is formed by punching a thin plate made of SPCC (cold rolled steel plate) material into a ring shape. Friction materials (not shown) made of a plurality of paper sheets are attached to the surface and back of the input side rotating plate 20. Grooves with a depth of several μm to several tens of μm are formed between the friction materials for retaining clutch oil.

[0040] like Figure 1As shown, the clutch center 40 is accommodated in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 40 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 40 has a cylindrical body 42 and a flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the body 42. The clutch center 40 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates 20 in the direction D. The clutch center 40 is driven to rotate together with the output shaft 15.

[0041] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 42 includes an annular base wall 43, an outer peripheral wall 45 located radially outside the base wall 43 and extending toward the second direction D2, an output shaft retaining portion 50 arranged in the center of the base wall 43, a plurality of center side cam portions 60 connected to the base wall 43 and the outer peripheral wall 45, and a center side interlocking portion 58.

[0042] The output shaft holding portion 50 is formed in a cylindrical shape. An insertion hole 51 is formed in the output shaft holding portion 50 for the output shaft 15 to be inserted and splined. The insertion hole 51 is formed to penetrate the base wall 43. An inner peripheral surface 50A of the output shaft holding portion 50 where the insertion hole 51 is formed has a plurality of spline grooves formed along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 50 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0043] like Figure 2As shown, the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch center 40 is arranged at a position radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. A spline fitting portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45. The spline fitting portion 46 includes a plurality of center side fitting teeth 47 extending in the axial direction of the clutch center 40 along the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45, a plurality of spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent center side fitting teeth 47 and extending in the axial direction of the clutch center 40, and an oil discharge hole 49. The center side fitting teeth 47 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 47 are formed in the same shape. The center side fitting teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45. The number of the center side fitting teeth 47 may be a multiple of the number of the center side cam portion 60. In the present embodiment, as described later, the number of the center-side cam portions 60 is 3, and the number of the center-side interlocking teeth 47 is 30. In addition, the number of the center-side interlocking teeth 47 may not be a multiple of the number of the center-side cam portions 60. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed by penetrating the outer peripheral wall 45 in the radial direction. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed between adjacent center-side interlocking teeth 47. That is, the oil discharge hole 49 is formed in the spline groove 48. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed on the side of the center-side cam portion 60. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed on the side of the center-side sliding cam surface 60S of the center-side cam portion 60. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the first circumferential direction S1 than the center-side sliding cam surface 60S. The oil discharge hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the second circumferential direction S2 than the boss portion 54 described later. In the present embodiment, three oil discharge holes 49 are formed at three locations in the circumferential direction S of the outer peripheral wall 45. The oil discharge holes 49 are arranged at positions equally spaced in the circumferential direction S. The oil discharge hole 49 connects the inside and outside of the clutch center 40. The oil discharge hole 49 is a hole that discharges the clutch oil that flows out from the output shaft 15 into the clutch center 40 to the outside of the clutch center 40. Here, the oil discharge hole 49 discharges the clutch oil that flows on the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45 to the outside of the clutch center 40. At least a part of the oil discharge hole 49 is provided at a position opposite to the pressure side fitting portion 88 described later.

[0044] like Figure 2 As shown, the clutch center 40 includes a plurality of oil flow paths 41 formed on the center-side engaging teeth 47. Fig.10As shown, the oil flow path 41 is formed at the end 47E of the center side engaging tooth 47 in the second direction D2. The oil flow path 41 is open toward the outer peripheral surface 45A side and the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45. The oil flow path 41 is a flow path that connects the outer peripheral surface 45A and the inner peripheral surface 45B of the outer peripheral wall 45. The oil flow path 41 is a flow path that discharges the clutch oil flowing at least on the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45 to the outside of the clutch center 40. In the present embodiment, the oil flow path 41 is a groove that is recessed from the end surface 47T of the center side engaging tooth 47 in the second direction D2 toward the first direction D1 (see also Figure 3C ). The oil flow path 41 is an example of a recessed portion. Figure 3A As shown, the oil flow path 41 is formed in a substantially circular shape (see also Figure 3B ). In addition, the shape of the oil flow path 41 is not particularly limited. A portion of the plurality of oil flow paths 41 is arranged radially outside the center side cam portion 60 described later. A portion of the plurality of oil flow paths 41 is arranged radially outside the center side cam hole 43H described later. A portion of the plurality of oil flow paths 41 is arranged radially outside the through hole 43P described later. The oil flow path 41 is provided in a pressure side fitting portion 88 (see Figure 4 ) relative position. Figure 2As shown, a center side engaging tooth 47C without an oil flow path 41 is arranged between one center side engaging tooth 47A formed with an oil flow path 41 and another center side engaging tooth 47B formed with an oil flow path 41. In the present embodiment, among the plurality of center side engaging teeth 47 arranged in the circumferential direction S, the oil flow path 41 is formed every other one, but the oil flow path 41 may be formed every two, or every three or more. In addition, the oil flow path 41 may be formed in each of the adjacent center side engaging teeth 47. The oil flow path 41 is formed, for example, by pressing a plastic hole pin on the end surface 47T of the center side engaging tooth 47 in the second direction D2 when the clutch center 40 formed by the mold is removed from the mold, or by cutting. In addition, the oil flow path 41 is also a flow path that guides the clutch oil (for example, the clutch oil adhering to the surface 47S of the center side engaging tooth 47) flowing on the outer peripheral surface 45A side of the outer peripheral wall 45 to the inside of the clutch center 40. For example, when the clutch center 40 stops rotating (for example, when the engine stops), the clutch oil adhering to the surface 47S of the center-side engaging tooth 47 in the oil flow path 41 located on the upper side of the clutch center 40 flows toward the inner peripheral surface 45B of the clutch center 40 through the oil flow path 41 due to gravity. In addition, when the clutch center 40 stops rotating, the clutch oil adhering to the inner peripheral surface 45B of the outer peripheral wall 45 of the center-side engaging tooth 47 in the oil flow path 41 located on the lower side of the clutch center 40 flows toward the surface 47S of the center-side engaging tooth 47 through the oil flow path 41 due to gravity. That is, when the clutch center 40 does not rotate, the clutch oil sometimes flows from the inside of the clutch center 40 to the outside through the oil flow path 41, and flows from the outside to the inside at the same time.

[0045] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 46 of the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70. A portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the center side fitting teeth 47 and the spline grooves 48 of the clutch center 40 by spline fitting. Another portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure side fitting teeth 77 (see FIG. 1 ) described later of the pressure plate 70. Figure 4 The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch center 40. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center 40.

[0046] The output side rotating plate 22 is a component pressed against the input side rotating plate 20. The output side rotating plate 22 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The output side rotating plate 22 is formed by punching a thin plate material made of SPCC material into a ring shape. Grooves with a depth of several μm to tens of μm for retaining clutch oil are formed on the surface and back of the output side rotating plate 22. In order to improve wear resistance, surface hardening treatment is applied to the surface and back of the output side rotating plate 22 respectively. In addition, the friction material provided on the input side rotating plate 20 may be provided on the output side rotating plate 22 instead of being provided on the input side rotating plate 20, or may be provided on the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 respectively.

[0047] The center side cam portion 60 is formed into a trapezoidal shape having a cam surface composed of an inclined surface, and the inclined surface constitutes an auxiliary sliding (registered trademark) mechanism that generates a force that increases the pressing force (pressing force) of the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, that is, an auxiliary torque, or a force that causes the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 to move away from each other in advance and shift to a semi-clutch state, that is, a sliding torque. The center side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude from the base wall 43 in the second direction D2. Figure 3A As shown, the center-side cam portions 60 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the clutch center 40. In the present embodiment, the clutch center 40 has three center-side cam portions 60, but the number of the center-side cam portions 60 is not limited to three.

[0048] like Figure 3A As shown, the center-side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 50. The center-side cam portion 60 has a center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center-side sliding cam surface 60S. The center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A is configured to generate a force in a direction that causes the pressure plate 70 to approach the clutch center 40 in order to increase the pressing force (pressing force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70. In the present embodiment, when the above-mentioned force is generated, the position of the pressure plate 70 relative to the clutch center 40 does not change, and the pressure plate 70 does not need to be physically close to the clutch center 40. In addition, the pressure plate 70 may also be physically displaced relative to the clutch center 40. The center-side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to cause the pressure plate 70 to move away from the clutch center 40 in order to reduce the pressing force (pressing force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70. In the center-side cam portions 60 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one center-side cam portion 60L and the center-side sliding cam surface 60S of the other center-side cam portion 60M are arranged in the circumferential direction S to face each other.

[0049] like Figure 2As shown, the clutch center 40 has a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) bosses 54. The bosses 54 are components that support the pressure plate 70. The plurality of bosses 54 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The bosses 54 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The bosses 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft retaining portion 50. The bosses 54 extend toward the pressure plate 70 (i.e., toward the second direction D2). The bosses 54 are provided on the base wall 43. A portion for the bolts 28 (see Figure 1 The threaded hole 54H extends along the axial direction of the clutch center 40.

[0050] like Figure 2 and Figure 3A As shown, the clutch center 40 has a center side cam hole 43H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 43. The center side cam hole 43H penetrates the base wall 43 in the direction D. The center side cam hole 43H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 50 to the outer peripheral wall 45. The center side cam hole 43H is formed between the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center 40, the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a portion of the center side cam hole 43H.

[0051] like Figure 2 and Figure 3A As shown, the clutch center 40 has a through hole 43P that penetrates a portion of the base wall 43. The through hole 43P penetrates the base wall 43 along the direction D. The through hole 43P is formed between the center side sliding cam surface 60S of the center side cam portion 60 and the center side cam hole 43H. It is formed between the center side sliding cam surface 60S of the center side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. The through hole 43P is located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the center side sliding cam surface 60S. The through hole 43P is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the boss portion 54. An oil discharge hole 49 is formed radially outside the through hole 43P. The through hole 43P is smaller than the center side cam hole 43H. The through hole 43P connects the inside and outside of the clutch center 40. The through hole 43P is configured to guide the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center 40 to the inside of the clutch center 40. In more detail, as Figure 1 As shown by the arrow FS, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 toward the clutch center 40 flows into the interior of the clutch center 40 through the through hole 43P.

[0052] like Figure 2As shown, the center side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The center side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the center side cam portion 60. The center side fitting portion 58 is located on the second direction D2 side from the center side cam portion 60. The center side fitting portion 58 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 45B of the outer peripheral wall 45. The center side fitting portion 58 is configured to be slidably fitted on the pressure side fitting portion 88 described later (see Figure 4 ). The inner diameter of the center-side fitting portion 58 is formed to have a diameter that allows the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 to be extended relative to the pressure-side fitting portion 88 (see Figure 1 ) The fitting tolerance of the flow of the clutch oil flowing out of the center side fitting portion 58 is set appropriately according to the amount of clutch oil to be circulated, for example, to be greater than 0.1 mm and less than 0.5 mm. That is, a gap is formed between the center side fitting portion 58 and the pressure side fitting portion 88 described later. In the present embodiment, for example, the center side fitting portion 58 is formed to have an inner diameter that is 0.1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the pressure side fitting portion 88. The dimensional tolerance of the inner diameter of the center side fitting portion 58 and the outer diameter of the pressure side fitting portion 88 is set appropriately according to the amount of clutch oil to be circulated, for example, to be greater than 0.1 mm and less than 0.5 mm.

[0053] like Figure 1 As shown, the pressure plate 70 is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center 40 and to rotate relatively. The pressure plate 70 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 70 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center 40 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 70 has a main body 72 and a flange 98 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 72 on the second direction D2 side and extending radially outward. The main body 72 protrudes in the first direction D1 more than the flange 98. The pressure plate 70 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20. The output side rotating plate 22 is arranged to be able to be displaced along the axial direction of the pressure plate 70. The output side rotating plate 22 is arranged to be able to rotate integrally with the pressure plate 70.

[0054] like Figure 4 As shown, the main body 72 includes a cylindrical portion 80, a plurality of pressure-side cam portions 90, a pressure-side fitting portion 88, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see also Figure 6 ).

[0055] The cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 is formed integrally with the pressure side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 80 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 80 accommodates the remote bearing 18 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the pressing member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0056] The pressure side cam portion 90 is formed into a trapezoidal shape having a cam surface composed of an inclined surface, and the inclined surface constitutes an auxiliary sliding (registered trademark) mechanism that causes the center side cam portion 60 to slide to generate an auxiliary torque or a sliding torque. The pressure side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude in the first direction D1 from the flange 98. Figure 5 As shown, the pressure-side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the pressure plate 70. In the present embodiment, the pressure plate 70 has three pressure-side cam portions 90, but the number of the pressure-side cam portions 90 is not limited to three.

[0057] like Figure 5 As shown, the pressure side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure side cam portion 90 has a pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A (also refer to Figure 7 ) and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to be able to contact the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A. The pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force in a direction that causes the pressure plate 70 to approach the clutch center 40 in order to increase the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when relatively rotating with respect to the clutch center 40. The pressure side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to be able to contact the center side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to reduce the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when relatively rotating with respect to the clutch center 40, so as to move the pressure plate 70 away from the clutch center 40. In the pressure side cam portions 90 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A of the pressure side cam portion 90L on one side and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S of the pressure side cam portion 90M on the other side are arranged opposite to each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0058] Here, the functions of the center-side cam portion 60 and the pressure-side cam portion 90 are described. When the engine speed increases and the rotational driving force input to the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 becomes capable of being transmitted to the output shaft 15 via the clutch center 40, as shown in FIG. Fig.9A As shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. Therefore, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 70 by the action of the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A. As a result, the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is increased.

[0059] On the other hand, when the rotation speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotation speed of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 and a reverse torque is generated, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9BAs shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center 40. Therefore, the center side sliding cam surface 60S and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S are used to move the pressure plate 70 in the second direction D2 to release the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In this way, adverse conditions on the engine and the transmission caused by reverse torque can be avoided.

[0060] like Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure side cam hole 73H that passes through the main body 72 and a portion of the flange 98. The pressure side cam hole 73H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure side cam hole 73H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to a position radially outward of the pressure side fitting portion 88. The pressure side cam hole 73H is formed between adjacent pressure side cam portions 90. The pressure side cam hole 73H is formed between the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure side cam portions 90. As shown in FIG. Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 70 , the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps a portion of the pressure-side cam hole 73H.

[0061] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the spring receiving portion 84 is formed in the pressure side cam portion 90. The spring receiving portion 84 is formed to be recessed from the second direction D2 to the first direction D1. The spring receiving portion 84 is formed in an elliptical shape. The spring receiving portion 84 receives the pressure spring 25 (see Figure 1 The spring receiving portion 84 is provided with a boss portion 54 (see Figure 2 ) is inserted into the insertion hole 84H. That is, the insertion hole 84H is formed through the pressure side cam portion 90. The insertion hole 84H is formed in an elliptical shape.

[0062] like Figure 1 As shown, the pressure spring 25 is accommodated in the spring accommodation portion 84. The pressure spring 25 is held by the boss portion 54 inserted into the insertion hole 84H of the spring accommodation portion 84. The pressure spring 25 applies force to the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center 40 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The pressure spring 25 is, for example, a coil spring obtained by winding spring steel into a spiral shape.

[0063] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure side fitting portion 88 is provided on the main body 72. The pressure side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the pressure side cam portion 90. The pressure side fitting portion 88 is located on the second direction D2 side from the pressure side cam portion 90. The pressure side fitting portion 88 is slidably fitted into the center side fitting portion 58 (see Figure 2 ).

[0064] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate 70 includes a plurality of pressure side interlocking teeth 77 formed on the flange 98. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are located radially outward from the pressure side cam portion 90. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are located radially outward from the pressure side interlocking portion 88. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are formed on the interlocking tooth forming surface 98B of the flange 98. The pressure side interlocking teeth 77 protrude from the interlocking tooth forming surface 98B toward the first direction D1. The plurality of pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, in the present embodiment, since a portion of the pressure side interlocking teeth 77 is removed, the interval of the portion is enlarged, but the other adjacent pressure side interlocking teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0065] Figure 8 4 is a top view showing the state in which the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 are combined. Figure 8 In the state shown, the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A does not contact the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A, and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S does not contact the center side sliding cam surface 60S. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is closest to the clutch center 40. Figure 8 In the state shown (the state when assembled), the circumferential distance L1 between the boss portion 54 and the end 84HA on the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A side (i.e., the first circumferential direction S1 side) of the insertion hole 84H is shorter than the circumferential distance L2 between the boss portion 54 and the end 84HB on the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S side (i.e., the second circumferential direction S2 side) of the insertion hole 84H in the normal state.

[0066] like Figure 1 As shown, the stopper plate 100 is provided so as to be in contact with the pressure plate 70. The stopper plate 100 is a member for preventing the pressure plate 70 from moving away from the clutch center 40 in the second direction D2 by a predetermined distance or more. The stopper plate 100 is fixed to the boss portion 54 of the clutch center 40 by the bolt 28. The pressure plate 70 is fixed to the boss portion 54 via the stopper plate 100 by tightening the bolt 28 in a state where the boss portion 54 of the clutch center 40 and the pressure spring 25 are arranged in the spring receiving portion 84. The stopper plate 100 is formed in a substantially triangular shape in a plan view.

[0067] Here, when the pressure plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S and the center side sliding cam surface 60S contact each other at 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S and 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the center side sliding cam surface 60S, respectively. In addition, when the pressure plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressure spring 25 is away from the side wall of the spring receiving portion 84. That is, the pressure spring 25 is not sandwiched between the boss portion 54 and the spring receiving portion 84, and excessive stress on the boss portion 54 is suppressed.

[0068] A predetermined amount of clutch oil is filled in the clutch device 10. The clutch oil flows into the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 through the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15, and is then supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 through the gap between the center side fitting portion 58 and the pressure side fitting portion 88 and the oil discharge hole 49. Figure 3A As shown by arrow FM, the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch center 40 is discharged to the outside of the clutch center 40 through the oil flow path 41. In addition, the clutch oil flows from the outside of the clutch center 40 through the center side cam hole 43H and the through hole 43P to the inside of the clutch center 40 through the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15. The clutch oil suppresses the absorption of heat and the wear of the friction material. The clutch device 10 of this embodiment is a so-called wet multi-plate friction clutch device.

[0069] Next, the operation of the clutch device 10 of this embodiment will be described. As described above, the clutch device 10 is arranged between the engine and the transmission of the motorcycle, and the driver operates the clutch lever to transmit and cut off the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission.

[0070] In the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle does not operate the clutch lever, the clutch disengagement mechanism (not shown) does not press the push rod 16A, so the pressure plate 70 presses the input side rotating plate 20 by the force (elastic force) of the pressure spring 25. As a result, the clutch center 40 is driven to rotate in a clutch engagement state in which the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are pressed against each other and frictionally connected. That is, the rotational driving force of the engine is transmitted to the clutch center 40, and the output shaft 15 is driven to rotate.

[0071] In the clutch engaged state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 falls or floats and adheres to the inside of the cylindrical portion 80 (see Figure 1The clutch oil adhering to the cylindrical portion 80 is guided to the clutch center 40. As a result, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch center 40 through the oil discharge hole 49. In addition, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch center 40 through the oil flow path 41 and the gap between the center-side fitting portion 58 and the pressure-side fitting portion 88. The clutch oil flowing out to the outside of the clutch center 40 is supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0072] On the other hand, when the driver of the motorcycle operates the clutch lever in the clutch-on state of the clutch device 10, the clutch-removing mechanism (not shown) presses the push rod 16A, so that the pressure plate 70 overcomes the force of the pressure spring 25 and moves in the direction (second direction D2) away from the clutch center 40. As a result, the clutch center 40 is in a clutch-disconnected state in which the friction connection between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is eliminated, and the rotational drive is attenuated or stopped. That is, the rotational drive force of the engine is cut off relative to the clutch center 40.

[0073] In the clutch-off state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 is guided into the clutch center 40 in the same manner as in the clutch-on state. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is away from the clutch center 40, so the amount of engagement with the center-side engagement portion 58 and the pressure-side engagement portion 88 is reduced. As a result, the clutch oil in the cylindrical portion 80 flows out more actively to the outside of the clutch center 40 and flows to various locations inside the clutch device 10. In particular, the clutch oil can be actively guided between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 that are away from each other.

[0074] Furthermore, when the driver releases the clutch operating lever in the clutch disengaged state, the pressure on the pressure plate 70 by the clutch disengagement mechanism (not shown) via the pushing component 16B is released, so that the pressure plate 70 is displaced in the direction (first direction D1) approaching the clutch center 40 by the force of the pressure spring 25.

[0075] As described above, according to the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the oil flow path 41 of the clutch center 40 is formed at the end 47E in the second direction D2 of the center-side engaging teeth 47, and the clutch oil flowing at least on the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45 is discharged to the outside of the clutch center 40. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing between the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 flows more to the outside of the clutch center 40 via the oil flow path 41. That is, since more clutch oil flows from the inside of the clutch center 40, the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 held by the center-side engaging teeth 47.

[0076] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the oil flow path 41 is a groove recessed in the first direction D1 from the end surface 47T in the second direction D2 of the center-side engaging tooth 47. According to the above aspect, more clutch oil in the clutch center 40 can flow to the outside with a relatively simple structure.

[0077] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the clutch center 40 has a plurality of center side cam portions 60, and the plurality of center side cam portions 60 are located radially outward from the output shaft retaining portion 50, and the plurality of center side cam portions 60 have at least one of a center side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center side sliding cam surface 60S. The center side auxiliary cam surface 60A generates a force in a direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center 40 in order to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, and the center side sliding cam surface 60S generates a force in a direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center 40 in order to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when the center side sliding cam surface 60S rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, and moves the pressure plate 70 away from the clutch center 40. The oil flow path 41 is arranged radially outward from the center side cam portion 60. When the clutch center 40 rotates, the clutch oil tends to accumulate around the center-side cam portion 60, so by arranging the oil flow path 41 radially outside the center-side cam portion 60, the accumulated clutch oil can be effectively flowed to the outside from the oil flow path 41. Thus, more clutch oil can flow to the outside of the clutch center 40.

[0078] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the oil flow path 41 is arranged radially outside the through hole 43P. Since the clutch oil flows into the through hole 43P from the outside of the clutch center 40, the clutch oil can be efficiently flowed from the oil flow path 41 to the outside (that is, toward the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22) by arranging the oil flow path 41 radially outside the through hole 43P. As a result, more clutch oil can flow to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0079] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the clutch center 40 includes the center-side fitting portion 58 formed on the inner peripheral surface 45B of the outer peripheral wall 45, the pressure plate 70 includes the pressure-side fitting portion 88 slidably fitted into the center-side fitting portion 58, and the oil flow path 41 is provided at a position opposite to the pressure-side fitting portion 88. According to the above-described embodiment, more clutch oil in the clutch center 40 can flow between the center-side fitting portion 58 and the pressure-side fitting portion 88 via the oil flow path 41. As a result, the sliding resistance between the center-side fitting portion 58 and the pressure-side fitting portion 88 can be reduced, and more clutch oil can flow to the outside of the clutch center 40.

[0080] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, a center-side engaging tooth 47C having no oil flow path 41 is disposed between one center-side engaging tooth 47A having an oil flow path 41 and another center-side engaging tooth 47B having an oil flow path 41. According to the above, the clutch oil can flow to the outside of the clutch center 40 in a well-balanced manner.

[0081] <Second embodiment>

[0082] Fig.11 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center 240 and a pressure plate 270 of a clutch device 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0083] The clutch center 240 is accommodated in the clutch housing 30 (see Figure 1 ). The clutch center 240 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. Fig.11 As shown, the clutch center 240 has a main body 242 and a flange 268 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 242 on the first direction D1 side and extending radially outward. The main body 242 protrudes in the second direction D2 than the flange 268. The clutch center 240 does not hold the output side rotating plate 22. The clutch center 240 is connected to the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 ) are driven to rotate together.

[0084] like Fig.11 As shown, the body 242 includes an output shaft holding portion 250, a plurality of center cam portions 60, and a center fitting portion 258. The center cam portion 60 is formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the flange 268. The center cam portion 60 is located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 250.

[0085] The output shaft holding portion 250 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Figure 1 ) is inserted and splined. The insertion hole 251 is formed to penetrate the main body 242. The inner peripheral surface 250A forming the insertion hole 251 in the output shaft holding portion 250 is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 250 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0086] like Fig.11 As shown, the clutch center 240 includes a plurality of (three in this embodiment) boss portions 54. The boss portions 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 250. The boss portions 54 are provided on the main body 242.

[0087] like Fig.11As shown, the clutch center 240 has a center side cam hole 243H that penetrates a portion of the main body 242 and the flange 268. The center side cam hole 243H penetrates the main body 242 and the flange 268 in the direction D. The center side cam hole 243H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 250 to the flange 268. The center side cam hole 243H is formed between the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center 240, the center side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a portion of the center side cam hole 243H.

[0088] like Fig.11 As shown, the center side fitting portion 258 is provided on the main body 242. The center side fitting portion 258 is located radially outward from the center side cam portion 60. The center side fitting portion 258 is located on the first direction D1 side from the center side cam portion 60. The center side fitting portion 258 is configured to be slidably fitted into the pressure side fitting portion 288 (see Fig.12 ).

[0089] The pressure plate 270 is provided to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center 240 and to be relatively rotatable. The pressure plate 270 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 270 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center 240 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 270 has a cylindrical main body 272 and a flange 298 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 272. The pressure plate 270 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates 20 in the direction D.

[0090] like Fig.12 As shown, the main body 272 includes an annular base wall 273, an outer peripheral wall 275 located radially outside the base wall 273 and extending toward the first direction D1, a cylindrical portion 280 provided at the center of the base wall 273, a plurality of pressure side cam portions 90 connected to the base wall 273 and the outer peripheral wall 275, a pressure side fitting portion 288, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see Fig.11 The pressure-side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the main body 272 in the first direction D1. The pressure-side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 280. The pressure-side cam portion 90 is located radially inside the outer peripheral wall 275.

[0091] The cylindrical portion 280 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 280 is formed integrally with the pressure side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 280 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 280 accommodates the remote bearing 18 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 280 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the pressing member 16B. The cylindrical portion 280 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0092] like Fig.12 As shown, the outer peripheral wall 275 of the pressure plate 270 is arranged at a position radially outward from the cylindrical portion 280. The outer peripheral wall 275 is formed into a circular ring shape extending in the direction D. A spline fitting portion 276 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The spline fitting portion 276 has: a plurality of pressure side fitting teeth 277 extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270 along the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275; a plurality of spline grooves 278 formed between adjacent pressure side fitting teeth 277 and extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270; and an oil discharge hole 279. The pressure side fitting teeth 277 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of pressure side fitting teeth 277 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure side fitting teeth 277 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure side fitting teeth 277 are formed in the same shape. The pressure side engaging teeth 277 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed by penetrating the outer peripheral wall 275 in the radial direction. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed between adjacent pressure side engaging teeth 277. That is, the oil discharge holes 279 are formed in the spline grooves 278. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure side cam portion 90. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A of the pressure side cam portion 90. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed at a position closer to the first circumferential direction S1 side than the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A. The oil discharge holes 279 are formed at a position closer to the second circumferential direction S2 side than the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S. In the present embodiment, three oil discharge holes 279 are formed at three locations of the outer peripheral wall 275 in the circumferential direction S. The oil discharge holes 279 are arranged at positions evenly spaced in the circumferential direction S. The oil discharge hole 279 connects the inside and outside of the pressure plate 270. The oil discharge hole 279 is a hole for discharging the clutch oil that has flowed out from the output shaft 15 into the pressure plate 270 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. Here, the oil discharge hole 279 discharges the clutch oil that has flowed on the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. At least a portion of the oil discharge hole 279 is provided at a position that is aligned with the center side fitting portion 258 (see Fig.11 ) relative position.

[0093] like Fig.12As shown, the pressure plate 270 includes a plurality of oil flow paths 271 formed on the pressure side engaging tooth 277. The oil flow path 271 is formed at the end 277E of the pressure side engaging tooth 277 in the first direction D1. The oil flow path 271 is open toward the outer peripheral surface 275A side and the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil flow path 271 is a flow path that connects the outer peripheral surface 275A and the inner peripheral surface 275B of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil flow path 271 is a flow path that discharges the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275 to the outside of the pressure plate 270 at least. In the present embodiment, the oil flow path 271 is a groove that is recessed from the end surface 277T of the pressure side engaging tooth 277 in the first direction D1 toward the second direction D2. The oil flow path 271 is an example of a recessed portion. The oil flow path 271 is formed in a substantially circular shape. In addition, the shape of the oil flow path 271 is not particularly limited. A portion of the plurality of oil flow paths 271 is disposed radially outside the pressure side cam portion 90. A portion of the plurality of oil flow paths 271 is disposed radially outside the pressure side cam hole 273H described later. The oil flow paths 271 are provided in the center side fitting portion 258 (see FIG. 25A ) of the clutch center 240. Fig.11 ) relative to each other. A pressure side engaging tooth 277C without the oil flow path 271 is arranged between one pressure side engaging tooth 277A having the oil flow path 271 and another pressure side engaging tooth 277B having the oil flow path 271. The oil flow path 271 is formed, for example, by pressing a plastic hole pin against an end face 277T of the pressure side engaging tooth 277 in the first direction D1 when the pressure plate 270 formed by the mold is removed from the mold, or by cutting. The oil flow path 271 is also a flow path that guides the clutch oil (for example, the clutch oil adhering to the surface of the pressure side engaging tooth 277) flowing on the side of the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275 to the inside of the pressure plate 270.

[0094] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 276 of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure side fitting teeth 277 and the spline groove 278 by spline fitting. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the pressure plate 270.

[0095] like Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown, the pressure plate 270 has a pressure side cam hole 273H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 273. The pressure side cam hole 273H is an example of a through hole. The pressure side cam hole 273H penetrates the base wall 273 in the direction D. The pressure side cam hole 273H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure side cam hole 273H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to the outer peripheral wall 275. The pressure side cam hole 273H is formed between adjacent pressure side cam portions 90. The pressure side cam hole 273H is formed between the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure side cam portions 90. When viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 270, the pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps with a portion of the pressure side cam hole 273H. The clutch oil flows into the pressure side cam hole 273H from the outside of the pressure plate 270.

[0096] like Fig.12 As shown, the pressure side fitting portion 288 is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 280. The pressure side fitting portion 288 is located radially outward from the pressure side cam portion 90. The pressure side fitting portion 288 is located on the first direction D1 side from the pressure side cam portion 90. The pressure side fitting portion 288 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 275B of the outer peripheral wall 275. The pressure side fitting portion 288 is configured to be slidably fitted on the center side fitting portion 258 (see Fig.11 ). A gap is formed between the pressure-side fitting portion 288 and the center-side fitting portion 258 .

[0097] As described above, according to the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the oil flow path 271 of the pressure plate 270 is formed at the end 277E of the pressure side engaging tooth 277 in the first direction D1, and at least the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275 is discharged to the outside of the pressure plate 270. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing between the clutch center 240 and the pressure plate 270 flows more to the outside of the pressure plate 270 via the oil flow path 271. That is, since more clutch oil flows from the inside of the pressure plate 270, the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0098] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, the oil flow path 271 is a groove recessed in the second direction D2 from the end surface 277T in the first direction D1 of the pressure side engaging tooth 277. According to the above aspect, more clutch oil in the pressure plate 270 can flow to the outside with a relatively simple structure.

[0099] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 270 has a plurality of pressure side cam portions 90, and the plurality of pressure side cam portions 90 are located radially inward of the outer peripheral wall 275, and have at least one of a pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A and a pressure side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure side auxiliary cam surface 90A generates a force in a direction in which the pressure plate 270 approaches the clutch center 240 in order to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when the pressure plate 270 rotates relative to the clutch center 240. The pressure side sliding cam surface 90S generates a force in a direction in which the pressure plate 270 approaches the clutch center 240 in order to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when the pressure plate 270 rotates relative to the clutch center 240. The oil flow path 271 is arranged radially outside the pressure side cam portion 90. When the pressure plate 270 rotates, the clutch oil tends to accumulate around the pressure-side cam portion 90, so by arranging the oil flow path 271 radially outside the pressure-side cam portion 90, the accumulated clutch oil can be effectively flowed to the outside from the oil flow path 271. Thus, more clutch oil can flow to the outside of the pressure plate 270.

[0100] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the oil flow path 271 is arranged radially outside the pressure side cam hole 273H. Since the clutch oil flows into the pressure side cam hole 273H from the outside of the pressure plate 270, the clutch oil can be efficiently flowed from the oil flow path 271 to the outside (that is, toward the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22) by arranging the oil flow path 271 radially outside the pressure side cam hole 273H. As a result, more clutch oil can flow to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0101] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 270 includes a pressure side fitting portion 288 formed on the inner peripheral surface 275B of the outer peripheral wall 275, the clutch center 240 includes a center side fitting portion 258 slidably fitted into the pressure side fitting portion 288, and the oil flow path 271 is provided at a position opposite to the center side fitting portion 258. According to the above-mentioned embodiment, more clutch oil inside the pressure plate 270 can flow between the center side fitting portion 258 and the pressure side fitting portion 288 via the oil flow path 271. As a result, the sliding resistance between the center side fitting portion 258 and the pressure side fitting portion 288 can be reduced, and more clutch oil can flow to the outside of the pressure plate 270.

[0102] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, a pressure side engaging tooth 277C having no oil flow path 271 is disposed between one pressure side engaging tooth 277A having an oil flow path 271 and another pressure side engaging tooth 277B having an oil flow path 271. According to the above aspect, the clutch oil can flow to the outside of the pressure plate 270 in a well-balanced manner.

[0103] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms.

[0104] In each of the above-described embodiments, the center-side cam portion 60 includes the center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the center-side sliding cam surface 60S, but it is sufficient to include at least one of them.

[0105] In each of the above-described embodiments, the pressure-side cam portion 90 includes the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S, but it is sufficient to include at least one of them.

[0106] In the second embodiment described above, the clutch center 240 is configured not to hold the output side rotating plate 22, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The clutch center 240 may also have a center side engaging tooth having a structure similar to the pressure side engaging tooth 77 of the first embodiment capable of holding the output side rotating plate 22.

[0107] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, it should be understood that changes and modifications will be apparent to those skilled in the art without departing from the scope and spirit of the present invention. Therefore, the scope of the present invention is determined only by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A clutch device that transmits a rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft or cuts off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, wherein: The clutch device comprises: a clutch center housed in a clutch housing and driven to rotate together with the output shaft, the clutch housing holding a plurality of input-side rotating plates driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft; and A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output-side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and moves away from the clutch center is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center is set as the second direction, The pressing plate has: An annular outer peripheral wall extending along the moving direction; A plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth hold the output-side rotating plate and are formed to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction; Spline grooves are a plurality of spline grooves formed between adjacent pressure side engaging teeth and extending along the moving direction, wherein the length of the spline grooves is the same as the length of the pressure side engaging teeth in the moving direction; and an oil flow path formed at an end portion of the pressure side engaging tooth in the first direction, The oil flow passage discharges at least the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface side of the outer peripheral wall to the outside of the pressure plate.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein: The oil flow path is a groove that is recessed from the end surface of the pressure-side fitting tooth in the first direction in the second direction.

3. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressure plate has a plurality of pressure-side cam portions, the pressure-side cam portions being located radially inward of the outer peripheral wall and having at least one of a pressure-side auxiliary cam surface and a pressure-side sliding cam surface. The pressure-side auxiliary cam surface generates a force in a direction causing the pressure plate to approach the clutch center in order to increase the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center, and the pressure-side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to move away from the clutch center in order to reduce the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate when the pressure plate rotates relative to the clutch center. The oil flow path is arranged radially outside the pressure-side cam portion.

4. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressing plate has: a plurality of pressure-side cam portions, located radially inward of the outer peripheral wall, and having at least one of a pressure-side auxiliary cam surface and a pressure-side sliding cam surface, wherein the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface generates a force in a direction causing the pressure plate to approach the clutch center in order to increase the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate when the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface rotates relative to the clutch center, and the pressure-side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to move away from the clutch center in order to reduce the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate when the pressure-side sliding cam surface rotates relative to the clutch center; and A through hole is formed between adjacent pressure side cam portions, The oil flow path is arranged radially outside the through hole.

5. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressure plate includes a pressure side fitting portion formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall. The clutch center includes a center-side fitting portion slidably fitted into the pressure-side fitting portion. The oil flow path is provided at a position facing the center-side fitting portion.

6. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressure-side fitting tooth not having the oil flow path is arranged between the one pressure-side fitting tooth in which the oil flow path is formed and the other pressure-side fitting tooth in which the oil flow path is formed.

7. A motorcycle comprising the clutch device according to claim 1 or 2.

8. A clutch device for transmitting a rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft or for cutting off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, wherein: The clutch device comprises: a clutch center housed in a clutch housing and driven to rotate together with the output shaft, the clutch housing holding a plurality of input-side rotating plates driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft; and A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output-side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and moves away from the clutch center is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center is set as the first direction, and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center is set as the second direction, The pressing plate has: An annular outer peripheral wall extending along the moving direction; A plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth hold the output-side rotating plate and are formed to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction; Spline grooves are a plurality of spline grooves formed between adjacent pressure side engaging teeth and extending along the moving direction, wherein the length of the spline grooves is the same as the length of the pressure side engaging teeth in the moving direction; and a recessed portion, which is recessed from the end surface of the pressure side engaging tooth in the first direction toward the second direction, The recessed portion is open toward the inner peripheral surface side and the outer peripheral side surface of the outer peripheral wall.

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