Clutch device and motorcycle

Abstract

A clutch device (10) is provided with: a clutch center sleeve (40) that holds output-side rotating plates (22) disposed alternately with input-side rotating plates (20); and a pressure plate (70) provided so as to be able to approach or separate from the clutch center sleeve (40), the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate (22A) being closest to the first direction (D1) side of the pressure plate-side fitting teeth (77) when the pressure plate (70) is farthest from the clutch center sleeve (40), and the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate (22A) being closer to the second direction (D2) side of the pressure plate-side fitting teeth (77). The input-side rotating plate (22) closer to the first direction (D1) than the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate (22A) does not overlap with an end portion (77T) of the pressure plate-side fitting teeth (77) in the first direction (D1) when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft (15).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] 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.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-109218 filed on July 6, 2022 and Japanese Patent Application No. 2022-172870 filed on October 28, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Background Art

[0003] In the past, vehicles such as motorcycles were equipped with clutch devices. The clutch device is arranged between the engine and the drive wheel to transmit or cut off 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 that are connected to the 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 and separating the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates.

[0004] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a clutch device including: a clutch center sleeve (clutch member) that holds an output side rotating plate (driven side clutch plate); and a pressure plate (pressure member) that is arranged to be able to approach and leave the clutch center sleeve. The pressure plate is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. In this way, in the clutch device, the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate are assembled and used.

[0005] In the clutch device of Patent Document 1, as a portion for holding the output side rotating plate, the clutch center sleeve has center sleeve side engaging teeth (an outer peripheral wall formed with splines), and the pressure plate has pressure plate side engaging teeth. When the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate are assembled, the center sleeve side engaging teeth and the pressure plate side engaging teeth are configured to overlap in the radial direction.

[0006] Prior art literature

[0007] Patent Literature

[0008] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6903020. Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0009] However, when the pressure plate is separated from the clutch center sleeve, a gap may be generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth and the center sleeve side engaging teeth in the moving direction of the pressure plate (i.e., the axial direction of the output shaft). In this case, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve flows to the outside through the gap, so there is a problem that the clutch oil is difficult to flow to the output side rotating plate held by the pressure plate.

[0010] The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a clutch device capable of supplying more clutch oil to an output-side rotating plate held by pressure plate-side engaging teeth of a pressure plate, and a motorcycle equipped with the clutch device. Means for solving problems

[0011] The clutch device of the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, the pressure plate comprising a plurality of pressure plate-side engaging teeth that hold at least one output-side rotating plate and are arranged in the circumferential direction, the clutch center sleeve comprising: an output shaft holding portion that is connected to the output shaft; an outer peripheral wall that is located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion; and a plurality of center sleeve-side engaging teeth that hold the output-side rotating plates, and are formed to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction, wherein in a semi-clutch state, a portion of the center sleeve-side engaging teeth overlaps a portion of the pressure plate-side engaging teeth when viewed in the radial direction of the output shaft.

[0012] According to the clutch device involved in the present invention, in the semi-clutch state, a part of the center sleeve side engaging teeth overlaps a part of the pressure plate side engaging teeth when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft. That is, in the semi-clutch state, no gap is generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth and the center sleeve side engaging teeth in the moving direction of the pressure plate, so, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve does not flow directly to the outside, but flows to the pressure plate side. As a result, more clutch oil can be supplied to the output side rotating plate held by the pressure plate.

[0013] Another clutch device involved in the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, the pressure plate having a plurality of pressure plate-side engaging teeth that hold at least one output-side rotating plate and are arranged in the circumferential direction, the clutch center sleeve having: an output shaft holding portion that is connected to the output shaft; an outer peripheral wall that is radially outward of the output shaft holding portion; and a plurality of center sleeve-side engaging teeth that hold the output-side rotating plates and are formed to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and are arranged in the circumferential direction, and when the clutch is cut off, a portion of the center sleeve-side engaging teeth overlaps a portion of the pressure plate-side engaging teeth when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft.

[0014] According to another clutch device involved in the present invention, when the clutch is disconnected, a part of the center sleeve side engaging teeth overlaps a part of the pressure plate side engaging teeth when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft. That is, when the clutch is disconnected, no gap is generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth and the center sleeve side engaging teeth in the moving direction of the pressure plate, so, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve does not flow directly to the outside, but flows to the pressure plate side. As a result, more clutch oil can be supplied to the output side rotating plate held by the pressure plate.

[0015] Another clutch device involved in the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, and comprises: a clutch center sleeve, which is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; a pressure plate, which is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be able to rotate relatively, and to be able to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates; and a stopper plate, which is arranged to be able to contact the pressure plate and inhibit the pressure plate from moving away from the clutch center sleeve. The clutch center sleeve is separated from the output side rotating plate by more than a specified distance, and the pressure plate has a plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth arranged in the circumferential direction for holding at least one output side rotating plate. The clutch center sleeve has: an output shaft holding portion connected to the output shaft; an outer peripheral wall located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion; and a plurality of center sleeve side engaging teeth for holding the output side rotating plate and formed to protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall and arranged in the circumferential direction. When the pressure plate is in contact with the stop plate, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth when viewed in the radial direction of the output shaft.

[0016] According to another clutch device involved in the present invention, when the pressure plate is in contact with the stopper plate, a part of the center sleeve side engaging teeth overlaps a part of the pressure plate side engaging teeth when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft. That is, when the pressure plate is in contact with the stopper plate, no gap is generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth and the center sleeve side engaging teeth in the moving direction of the pressure plate, so that, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve does not flow directly to the outside, but flows to the pressure plate side. As a result, more clutch oil can be supplied to the output side rotating plate held by the pressure plate. Effects of the Invention

[0017] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device capable of supplying a larger amount of clutch oil to an output-side rotating plate held by the pressure plate-side engaging teeth of the pressure plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device according to the first embodiment.

[0019] Figure 2 It is a perspective view of the clutch center sleeve according to the first embodiment.

[0020] Figure 3 It is a top view of the clutch center sleeve according to the first embodiment.

[0021] Figure 4 It is a perspective view of the pressing plate involved in the first embodiment.

[0022] Figure 5A It is a top view of the pressing plate involved in the first embodiment.

[0023] Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A Cross-sectional view of the VB-VB line in FIG.

[0024] Figure 6 It is a perspective view of the pressing plate involved in the first embodiment.

[0025] Figure 7 It is a top view of the pressing plate involved in the first embodiment.

[0026] Figure 8 It is a side view which enlarges a part of the pressure plate side cam part which concerns on 1st Embodiment.

[0027] Fig. 9 This is a perspective view in which a part of the pressing plate according to the first embodiment is enlarged.

[0028] Fig.10 It is a plan view showing a state in which the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate according to the first embodiment are assembled.

[0029] Fig.11A It is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the auxiliary cam surface on the center sleeve side and the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side.

[0030] Fig. 11B It is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the sliding cam surface on the center sleeve side and the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side.

[0031] Fig.12 It is a cross-sectional view of the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate according to the first embodiment.

[0032] Fig.13 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in normal conditions.

[0033] Fig.14A It is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in normal state.

[0034] Fig. 14B It is a cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate when the pressure plate is farthest from the clutch center sleeve.

[0035] Fig.15 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in normal state according to the second embodiment and the third embodiment.

[0036] Fig.16It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in the half-clutch state according to the second embodiment.

[0037] Fig.17 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in a state where the clutch according to the second embodiment is disengaged.

[0038] Fig.18 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in a state where the pressure plate and the stopper plate are in contact with each other according to the second embodiment.

[0039] Fig.19 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in the half-clutch state according to the third embodiment.

[0040] Fig. 20 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in a state where the clutch according to the third embodiment is disengaged.

[0041] Fig.21 It is a partially enlarged cross-sectional view showing the positional relationship between the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate in a state where the pressure plate and the stopper plate are in contact with each other according to the third embodiment.

[0042] Fig. 22 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate according to a fourth embodiment.

[0043] Fig.23 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to a fourth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0044] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the clutch device involved in the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described here is certainly not intended to specifically 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. <First Embodiment>

[0045] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device 10 involved in the present 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 or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of the engine of the motorcycle to the output shaft 15, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the drive wheel (rear wheel) via the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is arranged between the engine and the transmission.

[0046] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 approaches and leaves the clutch sleeve 40 is referred to as direction D (an example of a moving direction), the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch sleeve 40 is referred to as a first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 leaves the clutch sleeve 40 is referred to as a second direction D2. In addition, the circumferential direction of the clutch sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 is referred to as a circumferential direction S, and the direction from one pressure plate side cam portion 90 toward the other pressure plate side cam portion 90 in the circumferential direction S is referred to as a first circumferential direction S1 (refer to Figure 5A ), the direction from the other platen side cam portion 90 toward the one platen side cam portion 90 is defined as the second circumferential direction S2 (refer to Figure 5A ). 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 sleeve 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 sleeve 40 rotate in the first circumferential direction S1. However, the above directions are only directions determined for the convenience of explanation, and do not limit the setting method of the clutch device 10 at all, nor do they limit the present invention at all.

[0047] like Figure 1 As shown, the clutch device 10 includes an output shaft 15 , an input-side rotating plate 20 , an output-side rotating plate 22 , a clutch housing 30 , a clutch center sleeve 40 , a pressure plate 70 , and a stopper plate 100 .

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the output shaft 15 is a shaft body formed in a hollow shape. One end of the output shaft 15 rotatably supports the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 described later via a needle bearing 15A. The output shaft 15 fixedly supports the clutch center sleeve 40 via a nut 15B. That is, the output shaft 15 rotates integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40. The other end of the output shaft 15 is connected to, for example, a transmission (not shown) of a motorcycle.

[0049] like Figure 1As shown, the output shaft 15 has a push rod 16A and a push 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 path 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 push member 16B are disposed so as 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 a clutch operating lever (not shown) of the motorcycle, and the push member 16B is pressed in the second direction D2 by sliding in the hollow portion 15H through the operation of the clutch operating lever. A portion of the push member 16B protrudes outwardly of the output shaft 15 (in this case, the second direction D2) and is connected to a release bearing 18 disposed on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the push 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.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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 by rivets 35B via a torque damper 35A. The input gear 35 meshes 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.

[0052] 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 provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch housing 30. The input side rotating plate 20 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0053] The input side rotating plate 20 is a member 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 members (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 for retaining clutch oil are formed between the friction members.

[0054] like Figure 1As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 is accommodated in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 has a cylindrical main body 42 and a flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 42. The clutch center sleeve 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 sleeve 40 is driven to rotate together with the output shaft 15.

[0055] 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 sleeve side cam portions 60 connected to the base wall 43 and the outer peripheral wall 45, and a center sleeve side fitting portion 58.

[0056] 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.

[0057] like Figure 2As shown, the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch center sleeve 40 is arranged radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The outer peripheral wall 45 is formed integrally with the output shaft holding portion 50. A spline fitting portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The spline fitting portion 46 includes: a plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 extending in the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40 along the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45; a plurality of spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 and extending in the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40; and an oil discharge hole 49. The center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 are formed in the same shape. The center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The outer peripheral surface of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 is formed substantially parallel to the axis of the output shaft 15. The drain hole 49 is formed to penetrate the outer peripheral wall 45 in the radial direction. The drain hole 49 is formed between adjacent center sleeve side engaging teeth 47. That is, the drain hole 49 is formed in the spline groove 48. The drain hole 49 is formed on the side of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The drain hole 49 is formed on the side of the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The drain hole 49 is formed on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The drain hole 49 is formed on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the boss portion 54 described later. The drain hole 49 connects the inside and the outside of the clutch center sleeve 40. The drain hole 49 is a hole for discharging the clutch oil that has flowed out from the output shaft 15 into the clutch center sleeve 40 to the outside of the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0058] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 46 of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70. A portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the center sleeve side fitting teeth 47 and the spline grooves 48 of the clutch center sleeve 40 through spline fitting. Another portion of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate side fitting teeth 77 (see FIG. 1 ) of the pressure plate 70, which will be described later. Figure 4 The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0059] 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 made of SPCC material into a ring shape. Grooves with a depth of several μm to several 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 member provided on the input side rotating plate 20 can be provided on the output side rotating plate 22 instead of being provided on the input side rotating plate 20, or can be provided on the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, respectively.

[0060] The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed into a table shape having a cam surface composed of an inclined surface constituting an assist & slipper (registered trademark) mechanism, which generates a force that increases the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, namely an assist torque, or a force that causes the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 to separate as soon as possible and transfer to a semi-clutch state, namely a slip torque. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude from the base wall 43 in the second direction D2. Figure 3 As shown, the center sleeve side cam portions 60 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the clutch center sleeve 40. In the present embodiment, the clutch center sleeve 40 has three center sleeve side cam portions 60, but the number of the center sleeve side cam portions 60 is not limited to three.

[0061] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the center sleeve side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 50. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 includes a center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The center sleeve 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 sleeve 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 center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A 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 sleeve 40 does not change, and the pressure plate 70 does not need to physically approach the clutch center sleeve 40. Alternatively, the pressure plate 70 may be physically displaced relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to reduce the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S rotates relative to the pressure plate 70 so that the pressure plate 70 moves away from the clutch center sleeve 40. Of the center sleeve side cam portions 60 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one center sleeve side cam portion 60L and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S of the other center sleeve side cam portion 60M are arranged to face each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0062] like Figure 2As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a plurality of (three in this 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 space for the bolts 28 (see FIG. 2 ) is formed on the bosses 54. Figure 1 The threaded hole 54H extends in the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0063] like Figure 2 As shown, the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is located on the second direction D2 side from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is configured to be slidably fitted on the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 (see FIG. 1 ) described later. Figure 4 ). The inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed to have a fitting tolerance relative to the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 that allows the flow of clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15. That is, a gap is formed between the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 described later. In the present embodiment, for example, the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed to have an inner diameter that is 0.1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The dimensional tolerance between the inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is appropriately set according to the amount of clutch oil to be circulated, for example, not less than 0.1 mm and not more than 0.5 mm.

[0064] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a center sleeve side cam hole 43H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 43. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 50 to the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve side cam hole 43H is formed between the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps a portion of the center sleeve side cam hole 43H.

[0065] like Figure 1As shown, the pressure plate 70 is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve 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 sleeve 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 flange 98 is located at the outer diameter end of the pressure plate 70. The flange 98 is located at a position larger than the cylindrical portion 80 (refer to Figure 4 The pressing plate 70 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates 20. The flange 98 is configured to be able to press the input-side rotating plates 20 and the output-side rotating plates 22.

[0066] like Figure 4 As shown, the main body 72 includes a cylindrical portion 80, a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90, a pressure plate side fitting portion 88 and a spring receiving portion 84 (see also Figure 6 ).

[0067] The cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 is formed integrally with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 80 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The release bearing 18 is housed in the cylindrical portion 80 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the thrust member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0068] The platen-side cam portion 90 is formed in a table shape having a cam surface composed of an inclined surface constituting an assist and slide (registered trademark) mechanism that slides on the center sleeve-side cam portion 60 to generate an assist torque or a slide torque. The platen-side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude in the first direction D1 from the flange 98. Figure 5A As shown, the press plate side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the press plate 70. In the present embodiment, the press plate 70 has three press plate side cam portions 90, but the number of the press plate side cam portions 90 is not limited to three.

[0069] like Figure 5A As shown, the platen side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The platen side cam portion 90 has a platen side auxiliary cam surface 90A (see also Figure 7 and Fig. 9) and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to be able to contact with the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. The pressure plate 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 sleeve 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 clutch center sleeve 40 rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to be able to contact with the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure plate 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 the clutch center sleeve 40 rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve 40 so that the pressure plate 70 is separated from the clutch center sleeve 40. In the platen-side cam portions 90 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the platen-side auxiliary cam surface 90A of one platen-side cam portion 90L and the platen-side sliding cam surface 90S of the other platen-side cam portion 90M are arranged to face each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0070] like Figure 8 As shown, a chamfered portion 90AP chamfered into a straight line is formed at the end of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A in the circumferential direction S of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The angle of the chamfered portion 90AP (the angle in the first direction D1 and the first circumferential direction S1 side) is a right angle. More specifically, the chamfered portion 90AP is formed at the end 90AB of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A in the first circumferential direction S1.

[0071] Here, the functions of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the pressure plate 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 can be transmitted to the output shaft 15 via the clutch center sleeve 40, as shown in FIG. Fig.11A 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 sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. As a result, the pressure plate 70 moves in a direction closer to the clutch center sleeve 40 (the first direction D1), thereby increasing the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0072] 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. 11B As shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center sleeve 40. Therefore, the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S and the pressure plate 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 or transmission caused by reverse torque can be avoided.

[0073] like Figure 4As shown, the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is located on the second direction D2 side from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 88 is configured to be slidably fitted into the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 (see Figure 2 ).

[0074] like Figure 4 and Figure 5A As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure plate side cam hole 73H that penetrates the main body 72 and a portion of the flange 98. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to the radially outward of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H is formed between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure plate side cam portion 90. Figure 5A and Figure 7 As shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 70, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side cam hole 73H.

[0075] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 disposed on the surface 98A of the flange 98 in the first direction. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 hold at least one output side rotating plate 22. The input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are arranged so as to be able to move along the outer peripheral surface 77A (also refer to FIG. 7A ) of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77. Fig.13 ) moves in direction D. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 protrude from the first direction surface 98A of the flange 98 toward the first direction D1. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward of the pressure plate side engaging portion 88. A plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. A plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. As Fig.13As shown, a recess 77H recessed radially inward is formed at the end of the second direction D2 of the outer circumferential surface 77A of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77. The recess 77H is formed over the entire circumference of the end of the second direction D2 of the outer circumferential surface 77A of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77. The length RA of the direction D of the recess 77H is shorter than the length RB of the direction D of a sheet of the input side rotating plate 20. In addition, the inner circumferential surface 77B of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is inclined radially outward as it moves toward the first direction D1. The inner circumferential surface 77B of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is inclined relative to the output shaft 15, for example, by about 2°, in a manner that it is located radially outward as it moves toward the first direction D1. The inclination angle of the inner circumferential surface 77B is larger than the inclination angle of other parts, such as the outer circumferential surface 77A of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77. The outer circumferential surface 77A of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is inclined radially outward as it moves toward the second direction D2. The outer peripheral surface 77A of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is inclined, for example, by about 1° with respect to the output shaft 15 so as to be located radially outward as it advances in the second direction D2. Figure 5B As shown, when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15, a pair of side surfaces 77F of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the circumferential direction S are inclined so as to approach each other as they proceed along the first direction D1. The angle α formed by the side surface 77F and the straight line 15L parallel to the axis of the output shaft 15 is, for example, greater than 0° and less than 5° (for example, greater than 0° and less than 1°). In addition, in the present embodiment, since a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is removed, the interval of the portion is enlarged, but the other adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0076] like Fig.14A As shown, the length P1 of the direction D of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is longer than the sum of the maximum moving distance P2 of the pressure plate 70 in the direction D and the rotating plate distance P3 (P2+P3), wherein the rotating plate distance P3 is the normal distance from the end 22AT of the second direction D2 of the output side rotating plate 22 located closest to the first direction D1 in the output side rotating plate 22 held by the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77, i.e., the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side, to the end 77Q of the second direction D2 of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 (the boundary portion with the flange 98). That is, P1>(P2+P3) holds. In addition, the so-called normal time means when the pressure plate 70 is closest to the clutch center sleeve 40. Here, the so-called normal time means the state in which the clutch is connected (hereinafter also referred to as the clutch connection state). Therefore, as Fig. 14BAs shown, when the pressure plate 70 moves the maximum moving distance P2 from the normal state to the second direction D2, the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side overlaps with a part of the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77, and the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side is retained by the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77. That is, the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 always retain the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side, and have a length P1 that the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side will not fall off. In addition, the rotating plate distance P3 may also be the normal distance from the end 22DT of the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side in the first direction D1 to the end 77Q (the boundary portion with the flange 98) of the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 in the second direction D2. In addition, when the pressure plate 70 moves the maximum moving distance P2 from the normal state to the second direction D2, the pressure plate 70 and the stop plate 100 (refer to Figure 1 ) contact. In addition, if Fig. 14BAs shown in the figure, when the pressure plate 70 is farthest from the clutch center sleeve 40, the input side rotating plate 20 located on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate side outermost output side rotating plate 22A as viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 does not overlap with the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 in the first direction D1. That is, when the pressure plate 70 is farthest from the clutch center sleeve 40, the component located on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side. Here, when the pressure plate 70 is assembled to the clutch center sleeve 40 with the output side rotating plate 22 held on the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77, the output side rotating plate 22 is held at the end of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 (i.e., the end 77T in the first direction D1), and thus does not fall from the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77. Therefore, the assembly operation of the pressure plate 70 to the clutch center sleeve 40 becomes easy. In addition, when the pressure plate 70 is farthest from the clutch center sleeve 40 (for example, when the pressure plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, hereinafter referred to as overtravel), the input-side rotating plate 20 located on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate 22A does not overlap with the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (that is, the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77 are shortened so as not to overlap), so that when the clutch is connected, the end 77T of the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 is prevented from colliding with the input-side rotating plate 20 held by the clutch center sleeve 40. Furthermore, since the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77 can be made compact (that is, shortened), and the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate 22A is always held by the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77 regardless of the position of the pressure plate 70, the pressure plate-side outermost output-side rotating plate 22A can be prevented from falling off the pressure plate-side engaging teeth 77. On the other hand, if it is formed so that when overtravel occurs, as viewed radially from the output shaft 15, the input side rotating plate 20 located on the first direction D1 side of the outermost output side rotating plate 22A on the pressure plate side overlaps with the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 (that is, the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is lengthened for the purpose of overlapping), then when the clutch is connected, the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 in the first direction D1 may collide with the input side rotating plate 20 held by the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0077] like Fig.12 As shown in FIG. 1 , the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 are located radially outward of the center sleeve side interlocking teeth 47. A gap is formed between the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 and the center sleeve side interlocking teeth 47 in the radial direction. Fig.13As shown, the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 in the first direction D1 is located closer to the first direction D1 than the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging tooth 47 in the second direction D2. The radial distance LX between the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging tooth 47 is longer than the radial distance LY between the pressure plate side engaging portion 88 and the center sleeve side engaging portion 58. As described above, since the inner peripheral surface 77B of the pressure plate side engaging tooth 77 is inclined radially outward as it moves toward the first direction D1, and the outer peripheral surface of the center sleeve side engaging tooth 47 is formed substantially parallel to the axis of the output shaft 15, the distance LX becomes wider as it moves toward the first direction D1. Thus, when the pressure plate 70 and the clutch center sleeve 40 rotate, the clutch oil held in the space between the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 is easily scattered from the opening formed widely between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 toward the output side rotating plate 22 and the input side rotating plate 20, and the lubricity of the output side rotating plate 22 and the input side rotating plate 20 is improved. In addition, the distance LX is the shortest distance in the radial direction of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47. In addition, in normal times, a gap CX is formed between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the center sleeve side outermost output side rotating plate 22B, which is the output side rotating plate 22 located most on the second direction D2 side among the output side rotating plates 22 held by the clutch center sleeve 40. That is, the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are not in contact with the center sleeve side outermost output side rotating plate 22B.

[0078] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, the spring receiving portion 84 is formed on the pressure plate 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 plate side cam portion 90. The insertion hole 84H is formed in an elliptical shape.

[0079] 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 sleeve 40 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The pressure spring 25 is, for example, a coil spring formed by winding spring steel into a spiral shape.

[0080] Fig.10 2 is a top view showing a state in which the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 are combined. Fig.10 In the state shown, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A does not contact the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A, and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S does not contact the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is closest to the clutch center sleeve 40. This state is regarded as the normal state of the clutch device 10. Fig.10 As shown, a normal distance L5 between the boss portion 54 and the end portion 84HA on the auxiliary cam surface 90A side of the pressure plate side of the insertion hole 84H (i.e., the first circumferential direction S1 side) is shorter than a normal distance L6 between the boss portion 54 and the end portion 84HB on the sliding cam surface 90S side of the pressure plate side of the insertion hole 84H (i.e., the second circumferential direction S2 side).

[0081] like Figure 1 As shown in FIG. 1 , the stopper plate 100 is provided so as to be contactable with the pressure plate 70. The stopper plate 100 is a member for preventing the pressure plate 70 from being separated from the clutch center sleeve 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 sleeve 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 sleeve 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.

[0082] Here, when the pressing plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressing plate side sliding cam surface 90S and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S contact each other at 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the pressing plate side sliding cam surface 90S and 50% to 90% of the area of ​​the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, respectively. In addition, when the pressing plate 70 contacts the stopper plate 100, the pressure spring 25 leaves 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.

[0083] Here, the length L1 in the circumferential direction S from the end 90AA in the first direction D1 of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of one pressure plate side cam portion 90L in the adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90 to the end 90SA in the first direction D1 of the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the other pressure plate side cam portion 90M (refer to Figure 5A ) is greater than the circumferential length L2 (refer to Figure 3 )long.

[0084] In addition, when viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 15, an angle θ1 is formed by the center 80C of the cylindrical portion 80, an end 90AB in the first circumferential direction S1 of a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of one pressure plate side cam portion 90L of the pressure plate side cam portions 90 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, and an end 90SB in the first circumferential direction S1 of a pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the other pressure plate side cam portion 90M (see FIG. Figure 5A ) is greater than the angle θ2 (refer to the angle θ2 of the center 50C of the output shaft holding portion 50, the end 60AB of the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 in the second circumferential direction S2, and the end 60SB of the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S in the second circumferential direction S2) formed by Figure 3 )big.

[0085] In addition, the length L3 in the circumferential direction S from the end 60AA of the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A in the second direction D2 to the boss portion 54 (see Figure 3 ) is greater than the length L4 in the circumferential direction S from the end 90AA of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A in the first direction D1 to the insertion hole 84H (see Figure 5A )long.

[0086] When viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the center 50C of the output shaft holding portion 50, the end 60AB of the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 in the second circumferential direction S2, and the center 54C of the boss portion 54 form an angle θ3 (see Figure 3 ) is greater than the angle θ4 formed by the center 80C of the cylindrical portion 80, the end 90AB of the first circumferential direction S1 of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A, and the center 84HC of the insertion hole 84H (refer to Figure 5A )big.

[0087] A predetermined amount of clutch oil is filled in the clutch device 10. The clutch oil flows into the clutch center sleeve 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 sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 and the oil drain hole 49. The clutch oil suppresses the absorption of heat and the wear of the friction member. The clutch device 10 of this embodiment is a so-called wet multi-plate friction clutch device.

[0088] Next, the operation of the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment will be described. As described above, the clutch device 10 is disposed between the engine and the transmission of the motorcycle, and transmits and cuts off the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission through the clutch operation of the driver (for example, by operating the clutch operating lever or operating button by the driver).

[0089] In the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle does not perform the clutch operation (for example, when the driver does not operate the clutch lever), the clutch release mechanism (not shown) does not press the push rod 16A, so the pressure plate 70 presses the input side rotating plate 20 by the urging force (elastic force) of the pressure spring 25. As a result, the clutch center sleeve 40 is in a clutch connection state (that is, a clutch connected state) in which the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are frictionally connected to each other, thereby being rotationally driven. That is, the rotational driving force of the engine is transmitted to the clutch center sleeve 40, and the output shaft 15 is rotationally driven.

[0090] In the clutch connection state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 falls or splashes and adheres to the inside of the cylindrical portion 80 (see Figure 1 The clutch oil adhering to the cylindrical portion 80 is introduced into the clutch sleeve 40. As a result, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the drain hole 49. In addition, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 through the gap between the sleeve-side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate-side fitting portion 88. The clutch oil flowing out to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40 is supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0091] On the other hand, in the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle performs a clutch operation in the clutch connected state (when the driver operates the clutch operating lever), the clutch release mechanism (not shown) presses the push rod 16A, so that the pressure plate 70 overcomes the urging force of the pressure spring 25 and displaces in the direction away from the clutch hub 40 (the second direction D2). As a result, the clutch hub 40 is in a clutch disconnected state (i.e., a clutch disconnected state) in which the friction connection between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is released, and thus the rotation drive is attenuated or stopped. That is, the rotation drive force of the engine is disconnected from the clutch hub 40. The pressure plate 70 is configured to move in the second direction D2 when the clutch is connected (clutch connected state) via the semi-clutch state to the clutch disconnected state (clutch disconnected state) by the clutch operation of the driver.

[0092] In the clutch disconnected state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 is introduced into the clutch hub 40 in the same manner as in the clutch connected state. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is separated from the clutch hub 40, so the amount of engagement between the hub side engagement portion 58 and the pressure plate side engagement portion 88 is reduced. As a result, the clutch oil in the cylindrical portion 80 flows out to the outside of the clutch hub 40 more actively and flows to various places inside the clutch device 10. In particular, the clutch oil can be actively introduced between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 that are separated from each other.

[0093] When the driver releases the clutch lever in the clutch-off state, the clutch release mechanism (not shown) releases the pressure on the pressure plate 70 via the pushing member 16B, so that the pressure plate 70 is displaced in the direction (first direction D1) approaching the clutch center sleeve 40 by the force of the compression spring 25.

[0094] Fig.15 FIG. 1 is a partial enlarged cross-sectional view of the clutch device 110 according to the second embodiment and the clutch device 210 according to the third embodiment in a normal state (a state where the clutch is connected). Fig.15 As shown, in the clutch device 110 and the clutch device 210, when the clutch is connected, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 and the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 overlap by a length G1. In addition, in the clutch connected state, the radial distance LX between the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 and the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is shorter than the distance LZ between the end 47T on the second direction D2 side of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 and the pressure plate 70 (here, the flange 98) in the direction D. In addition, the distance LX may be longer than the distance LZ. In addition, when the clutch device 110 and the clutch device 210 change temperature in the usable temperature range (e.g., -10°C to 400°C) from the temperature range on the low temperature side (e.g., -10°C to 40°C) to the temperature range on the high temperature side (e.g., 80°C to 400°C), in the entire usable temperature range, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (see FIG. 1 ). Figure 15 to Figure 21 The temperature range on the low temperature side is, for example, the outside air temperature before the engine is started. The temperature range on the high temperature side is, for example, the temperature of the clutch device 110, 210 during operation after the engine is warmed up. <Second Embodiment>

[0095] like Figure 16 to Figure 18As shown, in the clutch device 110 involved in the second embodiment, when the pressure plate 70 moves in the direction away from the clutch center sleeve 40 (i.e., the second direction D2), the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 remain as a whole on the clutch center sleeve 40 side, and a gap (gap in direction D) is formed between the pressure plate 70 (more specifically, the flange 98) and the input side rotating plate 20A located closest to the second direction D2 side among the multiple input side rotating plates 20 and the multiple output side rotating plates 22.

[0096] like Fig.16 As shown, in the clutch device 110, in the semi-clutch state, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap with the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G2 (G1>G2). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2. Therefore, even in the case where the clutch oil flowing from the inside of the clutch center sleeve 40 is scattered radially outward due to the centrifugal force, most of the clutch oil will hit the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77, with the result that the clutch oil is provided to the output side rotating plate 22 and the like held by the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77. In addition, the semi-clutch state is a state in which the clutch is connected (refer to Fig.15 ) and the clutch is disconnected (refer to Fig.17 ) between the states.

[0097] like Fig.17 As shown, in the clutch device 110, when the clutch is disconnected, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G3 (G2>G3). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2.

[0098] like Fig.18As shown, in the clutch device 110, when the pressure plate 70 is in contact with the stopper plate 100, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G4 (G3>G4). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2. <Third Embodiment>

[0099] like Figure 19 to Figure 21 As shown, in the clutch device 210 according to the third embodiment, when the pressure plate 70 moves in the direction away from the clutch sleeve 40 (i.e., the second direction D2), only the input-side rotating plate 20B located closest to the first direction D1 among the input-side rotating plates 20 remains on the clutch sleeve 40 side, and a gap (gap in direction D) is formed between the input-side rotating plate 20B and the output-side rotating plate 22. In addition, the gap in direction D formed when the pressure plate 70 moves in the direction away from the clutch sleeve 40 is not limited to the gap between the input-side rotating plate 20B and the output-side rotating plate 22. For example, the gap may be formed between the clutch sleeve 40 and the input-side rotating plate 20B, between the adjacent input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22, or between the pressure plate 70 and the input-side rotating plate 20.

[0100] like Fig.19 As shown, in the clutch device 210, in the semi-clutch state, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G5 (G1>G5). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2.

[0101] like Fig. 20 As shown, in the clutch device 210, when the clutch is disconnected, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G6 (G5>G6). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2.

[0102] like Fig.21 As shown, in the clutch device 210, when the pressure plate 70 is in contact with the stopper plate 100, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (i.e., when viewed from a direction orthogonal to the direction D). Here, in the direction D, the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlap the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 by a length G7 (G6>G7). That is, no gap is generated in the direction D between the end 77T of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the first direction D1 and the end 47T of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the second direction D2.

[0103] As described above, according to the clutch device 110 of the second embodiment and the clutch device 210 of the third embodiment, in each of the half-clutch state, the clutch disconnected state, and the state in which the pressure plate 70 is in contact with the stopper plate 100, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15. That is, in each of the half-clutch state, the clutch disconnected state, and the state in which the pressure plate 70 is in contact with the stopper plate 100, no gap is generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the direction D, so that, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve 40 does not flow directly to the outside but flows to the pressure plate 70 side. As a result, more clutch oil can be supplied to the output side rotating plate 22 and the input side rotating plate 20 held by the pressure plate 70.

[0104] In the clutch device 110 of the second embodiment and the clutch device 210 of the third embodiment, the pair of side surfaces 77F of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the circumferential direction S are inclined so as to approach each other as the pressure plate 70 moves in the first direction D1 when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15. According to the above-mentioned manner, the pressure plate 70 can be easily moved toward and away from the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0105] In the clutch device 110 of the second embodiment and the clutch device 210 of the third embodiment, in the clutch connected state, the distance LX in the radial direction S between the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 and the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 may be longer than the distance LZ in the direction D between the end 47T on the second direction D2 side of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 and the pressure plate 70. According to the above manner, the clutch oil flows more easily in the gap between the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47.

[0106] In the clutch device 110 of the second embodiment and the clutch device 210 of the third embodiment, when the clutch device 110 and the clutch device 210 undergo a temperature change in the usable temperature range from the temperature range on the low temperature side to the temperature range on the high temperature side, a portion of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 overlaps a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the entire usable temperature range when viewed in the radial direction of the output shaft 15. According to the above-described mode, in the usable temperature range of the clutch device 110 and the clutch device 210, no gap is generated between the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 in the direction D, so that, for example, the clutch oil flowing inside the clutch center sleeve 40 does not flow directly to the outside, but flows to the pressure plate 70 side. As a result, more clutch oil can be supplied to the output side rotating plate 22 and the input side rotating plate 20 held by the pressure plate 70. <Fourth Embodiment>

[0107] Fig. 22 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve 340 and a pressure plate 370 of a clutch device 310 according to a fourth embodiment.

[0108] The clutch center sleeve 340 is received in the clutch housing 30 (see Figure 1 ). The clutch center sleeve 340 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. Fig. 22 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 340 has a main body 342 and a flange 368 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 342 on the first direction D1 side and extending radially outward. The main body 342 protrudes in the second direction D2 than the flange 368. The clutch center sleeve 340 does not hold the output side rotating plate 22. The clutch center sleeve 340 and the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 ) are driven to rotate together.

[0109] like Fig. 22 As shown, the main body 342 includes an output shaft holding portion 350, a plurality of center sleeve side cam portions 60, and a center sleeve side fitting portion 358. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the flange 368. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 350. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed integrally with the output shaft holding portion 350.

[0110] The output shaft holding portion 350 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Figure 1 ) is inserted and splined. The insertion hole 351 is formed to penetrate the main body 342. The inner peripheral surface 350A forming the insertion hole 351 in the output shaft holding portion 350 is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 350 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0111] like Fig. 22As shown, the clutch center sleeve 340 has a plurality of (three in this embodiment) bosses 54. The bosses 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 350. The bosses 54 are provided on the main body 342.

[0112] like Fig. 22 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 340 has a center sleeve side cam hole 343H that penetrates a portion of the main body 342 and the flange 368. The center sleeve side cam hole 343H penetrates the main body 342 and the flange 368 in the direction D. The center sleeve side cam hole 343H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 350 to the flange 368. The center sleeve side cam hole 343H is formed between the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the boss portion 54. When viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 340, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a portion of the center sleeve side cam hole 343H.

[0113] like Fig. 22 As shown, the center sleeve side fitting portion 358 is provided on the main body 342. The center sleeve side fitting portion 358 is located radially outward from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 358 is located on the first direction D1 side from the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 358 is configured to be slidably fitted into the pressure plate side fitting portion 388 (refer to Fig.23 ).

[0114] like Fig. 22 As shown, the flange 368 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 342. Here, the flange 368 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the center sleeve side fitting portion 358. The flange 368 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The flange 368 is located on the first direction D1 side of the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The flange 368 sandwiches the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 between the flange 368 and the flange 398 of the pressing plate 370.

[0115] The pressure plate 370 is provided to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve 340 and to be relatively rotatable. The pressure plate 370 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 370 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center sleeve 340 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 370 has a cylindrical main body 372 and a flange 398 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 372. The pressure plate 370 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20 in the direction D. In the present embodiment, the output side rotating plate 22 is held only by the pressure plate 370.

[0116] like Fig.23As shown, the main body 372 includes: an annular base wall 373, an outer peripheral wall 375 located radially outside the base wall 373 and extending toward the first direction D1, a cylindrical portion 380 provided at the center of the base wall 373, a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90 connected to the base wall 373 and the outer peripheral wall 375, a pressure plate side fitting portion 388, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see Fig. 22 The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the main body 372 in the first direction D1. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 380. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially inside the outer peripheral wall 375.

[0117] The cylindrical portion 380 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 380 is formed integrally with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 380 accommodates the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The release bearing 18 is accommodated in the cylindrical portion 380 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 380 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the thrust member 16B. The cylindrical portion 380 is a portion that receives the clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0118] like Fig.23As shown, the outer peripheral wall 375 of the pressure plate 370 is arranged radially outward from the cylindrical portion 380. The outer peripheral wall 375 is formed integrally with the cylindrical portion 380. The outer peripheral wall 375 is formed into a circular ring shape extending in the direction D. A spline interlocking portion 376 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 375A of the outer peripheral wall 375. The spline interlocking portion 376 includes: a plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 377 extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 370 along the outer peripheral surface 375A of the outer peripheral wall 375; a plurality of spline grooves 378 formed between adjacent pressure plate side interlocking teeth 377 and extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 370; and an oil drain hole 379. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 377 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 377 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side interlocking teeth 377 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. A plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 377 are formed in the same shape. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 377 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 375A of the outer peripheral wall 375. When viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft 15, a pair of side surfaces 377F of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 377 in the circumferential direction S are inclined so as to approach each other as they proceed along the first direction D1. The oil drain hole 379 is formed by penetrating the outer peripheral wall 375 in the radial direction. The oil drain hole 379 is formed between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 377. That is, the oil drain hole 379 is formed in the spline groove 378. The oil drain hole 379 is formed on the side of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain hole 379 is formed on the side of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain hole 379 is formed on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. The oil drain hole 379 is formed on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side. In the present embodiment, three oil drain holes 379 are formed at three locations on the outer peripheral wall 375 in the circumferential direction S. The oil drain holes 379 are arranged at equally spaced positions on the circumferential direction S. The oil drain holes 379 connect the inside of the pressure plate 370 with the outside. The oil drain hole 379 is a hole for discharging the clutch oil that flows out from the output shaft 15 into the pressure plate 370 to the outside of the pressure plate 370. Here, the oil drain hole 379 discharges the clutch oil that flows on the inner peripheral surface 375B side of the outer peripheral wall 375 to the outside of the pressure plate 370. At least a portion of the oil drain hole 379 is provided on the mating portion 358 (refer to Fig. 22 ) facing each other.

[0119] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 376 of the pressure plate 370. The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate side fitting teeth 377 and the spline groove 378 by spline fitting. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the pressure plate 370. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the pressure plate 370.

[0120] like Fig. 22 and Fig.23As shown, the pressure plate 370 has a pressure plate side cam hole 373H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 373. The pressure plate side cam hole 373H penetrates the base wall 373 in the direction D. The pressure plate side cam hole 373H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 380. The pressure plate side cam hole 373H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 380 to the outer peripheral wall 375. The pressure plate side cam hole 373H is formed between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. The pressure plate side cam hole 373H is formed between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. When viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 370, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps with a portion of the pressure plate side cam hole 373H. The clutch oil flows into the pressure plate side cam hole 373H from the outside of the pressure plate 373.

[0121] like Fig.23 As shown, the pressure plate side fitting portion 388 is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 380. The pressure plate side fitting portion 388 is located radially outward from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 388 is located on the first direction D1 side from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side fitting portion 388 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 375B of the outer peripheral wall 375. The pressure plate side fitting portion 388 is configured to be slidably fitted on the center sleeve side fitting portion 358 (refer to Fig. 22 A gap is formed between the pressing plate side fitting portion 388 and the center sleeve side fitting portion 358.

[0122] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the above embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms.

[0123] In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the clutch device 10, 110, 210, 310 is a so-called manual clutch configured to transmit and cut off the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission by the driver performing a clutch operation (for example, the driver operates the clutch operating lever), but is not limited to this. The clutch device 10, 110, 210, 310 may also be a so-called automatic clutch configured to automatically transmit and cut off the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission using a clutch actuator.

[0124] In the above-mentioned embodiments, in the clutch center sleeve 40, the output shaft holding portion 50 and the outer peripheral wall 45 are formed integrally, but the present invention is not limited thereto. For example, the clutch center sleeve 40 may include a first member including the output shaft holding portion 50 and a second member formed separately from the first member and including the outer peripheral wall 45, and the first member and the second member may be used in a manner of being fitted together.

[0125] In the fourth embodiment, the clutch center sleeve 340 is configured not to hold the output side rotating plate 22, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The clutch center sleeve 340 may also include center sleeve side engaging teeth having a structure similar to the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 of the first embodiment capable of holding the output side rotating plate 22. Description of Reference Numerals

[0126] 10 Clutch device

[0127] 15 Output shaft

[0128] 20 Input side rotating plate

[0129] 22 Output side rotating plate

[0130] 22A outermost output side rotating plate on the pressure plate side

[0131] 22AT End of the second direction

[0132] 22B Center sleeve side outermost output side rotating plate

[0133] 30 Clutch housing

[0134] 40 clutch center sleeve

[0135] 45 Outer wall

[0136] 47 Center sleeve side engaging teeth

[0137] 50 Output shaft holding part

[0138] 58 center sleeve side fitting part

[0139] 70 pressure plate

[0140] 77 pressure plate side engaging teeth

[0141] 77A outer surface

[0142] 77B inner surface

[0143] 77F side view

[0144] 77H concave part

[0145] 77Q End of the second direction

[0146] 77T End of the first direction

[0147] 88 pressure plate side fitting part

[0148] 98 flange

[0149] 100 stop plate

[0150] 110 Clutch device

[0151] 210 Clutch unit.

Claims

1. A clutch device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: A clutch center sleeve is accommodated in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; The pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to rotate relatively, and to press the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. The pressure plate includes a plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth arranged in a circumferential direction for holding at least one of the output side rotating plates. When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches and leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the moving direction, the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as the first direction, the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as the second direction, and the time in which the pressure plate is closest to the clutch center sleeve is set as the normal time, The length of the pressure plate side engaging teeth in the moving direction is longer than the sum of the maximum moving distance of the pressure plate in the moving direction and the rotating plate distance, the rotating plate distance being the normal distance from the end of the outermost output side rotating plate on the pressure plate side in the first direction to the end of the pressure plate side engaging teeth in the second direction, the outermost output side rotating plate on the pressure plate side is the output side rotating plate that is closest to the first direction among the output side rotating plates held by the pressure plate side engaging teeth, When the pressure plate is farthest from the clutch center sleeve, the outermost output side rotating plate on the pressure plate side is closest to the first direction side of the pressure plate side engaging tooth, and the input side rotating plate which is closer to the first direction side than the outermost output side rotating plate on the pressure plate side does not overlap with the end of the first direction of the pressure plate side engaging tooth when viewed from the radial direction of the output shaft.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein: In the normal state, a gap is formed between the end of the first direction of the engaging tooth on the pressure plate side and the outermost output side rotating plate on the center sleeve side, and the outermost output side rotating plate on the center sleeve side is the output side rotating plate closest to the second direction side among the output side rotating plates held by the clutch center sleeve.

3. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The clutch center sleeve has: An output shaft holding portion connected to the output shaft; An outer peripheral wall located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion; A plurality of center sleeve side engaging teeth, which 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; and The center sleeve side fitting portion is located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion. The pressing plate has a pressing plate side fitting portion which is slidably fitted into the center sleeve side fitting portion. The engaging teeth on the pressure plate side are located radially outwardly of the engaging teeth on the center sleeve side. The end of the engaging teeth on the pressure plate side in the first direction is closer to the first direction side than the end of the engaging teeth on the center sleeve side in the second direction. A radial distance between the pressure plate side engaging teeth and the center sleeve side engaging teeth is longer than a radial distance between the pressure plate side engaging portion and the center sleeve side engaging portion.

4. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The pressure plate has a flange extending radially outward at the outer diameter end portion. The pressure plate side engaging teeth are arranged on the surface of the flange on the first direction side. The input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate are arranged to be pressed by the flange and to be movable along the outer peripheral surface of the pressure plate-side engaging teeth. A recessed portion recessed radially inward is formed at an end portion in the second direction of the outer peripheral surface of the pressure plate-side fitting tooth.

5. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The inner peripheral surface of the pressure plate-side engaging teeth is inclined radially outward as it goes toward the first direction.

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

Images