Automatic clutch of motorcycle

By optimizing the design of motorcycle engines and clutches, the modular structure and combined motor control system and mechanical control system are used to realize the automatic operation of motorcycle clutch, solving the problem of complex, redundant and operational inconvenience in the existing technology. Improve driving safety and comfort, and extend the service life.

CN119373806APending Publication Date: 2025-01-28ZHEJIANG QIANJIANG MOTORCYCLE

Patent Information

Application Number
CN202411482113.X
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Applications(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2024-10-23
Publication Date
2025-01-28

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The existing motorcycle clutch system has problems such as complex structure, redundant volume, rigidity and inability to adjust according to user needs, resulting in inconvenience in operation and increased driving burden.

Method used

By optimizing the design and layout of the engine, clutch and its related components, the modular structure is adopted to make the coordinated work of each component more efficient, combining the motor control system and the mechanical control system to achieve automatic operation of the clutch.

Benefits of technology

A significant reduction of the operating intensity of the rider, improved driving safety and comfort, extended the service life of the clutch, and had potential energy -saving effects.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

The invention discloses an automatic clutch of a motorcycle, which comprises a motor control system and a mechanical control system, and a motor of the motor control system is independent of an engine and can be independently disassembled and assembled; the mechanical control system comprises a clutch and a clutch side cover provided with a leg placing position, and further comprises a clutch executing mechanism avoiding the clutch side cover. And the motor is fixed on the frame through a bracket and is positioned on the outer side of the clutch side cover. By optimizing the design and layout of the engine, the clutch and related parts thereof and adopting a modular structural form, the cooperative work among the parts is more efficient, so that better power transmission and control experience is obtained. By accurately configuring the combination of the clutch executing mechanism and the gear shifting executing mechanism, the response speed and stability of the vehicle under different working conditions are improved.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to the technical field of motorcycle manufacturing, in particular to an automatic clutch for a motorcycle. Background Art

[0002] Traditional motorcycle clutches are mostly manually operated, requiring the driver to manually adjust the clutch tension according to speed and road conditions. This operation method may cause inconvenience in operation in complex traffic environments and increase driving burden, especially in urban congestion or frequent gear shifting.

[0003] With the development of technology, automatic clutch technology is gradually applied to the motorcycle field to reduce the driver's operating burden and improve the driving comfort and safety of motorcycles. Automatic clutch usually realizes automatic control of clutch engagement and disengagement through electronic control unit (ECU).

[0004] For example, the "automatic shifting engine and motorcycle" disclosed in the Chinese patent literature, with the application number "CN202322086686.8", includes a housing, in which a crankshaft-connecting rod assembly, a main shaft and a secondary shaft combination, a shift mechanism, a speed sensor, a clutch actuator, a shift actuator, a lubrication system drive mechanism, a cooling system drive mechanism and a clutch assembly are arranged, wherein: a speed sensing component is arranged on the main shaft and the secondary shaft combination, the speed sensor is located at a position on the housing corresponding to the speed sensing component, and a clutch assembly is arranged at one end of the main shaft and the secondary shaft combination and connected to the crankshaft-connecting rod assembly.

[0005] The engine in the above scheme does not need to be equipped with an additional connection structure, which can simplify the structure of the engine with automatic shifting function, and the arrangement of the main and secondary shaft combination, clutch assembly and crankshaft connecting rod assembly on the housing makes the engine structure more compact. However, there are still many problems such as the single clutch operation mode, rigid structure, and inability to adjust according to user needs. Summary of the invention

[0006] In view of the many problems in the existing technology, such as the complex integrated structure of the motor and clutch, redundant volume, rigid structure, and inability to adjust according to user needs, by optimizing the design and layout of the engine, clutch and related components, and adopting a modular structure, the coordination between the components is more efficient, thereby obtaining a better power transmission and control experience. By accurately configuring the combination of the clutch actuator and the gear shift actuator, the response speed and stability of the vehicle under different working conditions are improved.

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, the present invention adopts the following technical solutions: A motorcycle automatic clutch is disclosed, comprising a motor control system and a mechanical control system. The motor of the motor control system is independent of the engine and can be disassembled and assembled separately; the mechanical control system comprises a clutch and a clutch side cover with a leg placement position, and also comprises a clutch actuator that avoids the clutch side cover; the motor is fixed to the frame through a bracket and is located on the outside of the clutch side cover.

[0008] The motorcycle automatic clutch realizes the automatic operation of the clutch by combining the motor control system and the mechanical control system. The motor is independent of the engine and can be disassembled and assembled separately, which provides convenience for maintenance and upgrading. The motor is fixed to the frame through a bracket and is located on the outside of the clutch side cover. This layout helps to protect the motor from external damage and also facilitates heat dissipation. The mechanical control system includes the clutch itself and the clutch side cover, which is provided with a leg placement position. This design takes into account the comfort of the rider. In addition, the clutch actuator is designed to avoid the clutch side cover, which shows that the space layout and compactness of the structure are fully considered in the design. The output shaft of the motor is directly connected to the worm in the clutch actuator. This direct connection method can improve the efficiency of power transmission and reduce energy loss. Compared with the traditional manual clutch system, this solution significantly reduces the operating intensity of the rider, especially in the case of frequent starting and stopping in congested sections of the city. By automatically controlling the separation and engagement of the clutch, the rider can focus more on the road conditions and driving, thereby improving safety. In addition, due to the precise control of the motor, the engagement and separation of the clutch can be smoother, reducing engine flameout or excessive wear caused by improper operation, and extending the service life of the clutch. There is also potential energy saving effect, as motor control can more accurately match engine output and vehicle needs, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.

[0009] Preferably, the motor is arranged at the lower right or left rear of the clutch; the output shaft of the motor is directly connected to the worm in the clutch actuator. The motor is arranged at the lower right or left rear of the clutch. This layout design takes into account space utilization and convenience of operation. The output shaft of the motor is directly connected to the worm in the clutch actuator. This direct connection method can improve the efficiency of power transmission and reduce energy loss. The coordinated use of the worm and the worm wheel can achieve precise control, making the separation and combination of the clutch smoother, thereby improving driving comfort and safety. In terms of technology, this design takes into account the size and output torque of the motor to ensure that it can work stably under various driving conditions. The layout position of the motor also takes into account the center of gravity distribution and spatial layout of the vehicle to ensure the controllability and stability of the vehicle. In addition, the design of the worm and the worm wheel needs to meet specific gear ratios and precision requirements to ensure the response speed and control accuracy of the clutch, so as to achieve efficient, stable and precise control of the automatic clutch, thereby improving the overall performance and driving experience of the motorcycle. This design also has good adaptability and can be applied to different motorcycle models, providing more choices for riders. In addition, maintenance costs and fuel consumption can be reduced, thereby reducing long-term operating costs.

[0010] Preferably, the clutch actuator includes a worm connected to the output shaft of the actuator motor and a worm wheel matched with the worm, the worm wheel controls the clutch through a rotating rod, and a housing is provided outside the worm wheel and the worm. By utilizing the self-locking characteristics of the worm transmission, a high torque transmission efficiency and a self-locking protection mechanism are provided to ensure that the clutch position will not change unexpectedly when the motor stops working, thereby enhancing the safety of the system. The coordinated use of the worm wheel and the worm can achieve precise control of the clutch engagement and disengagement process, thereby making the motorcycle's gear shifting operation smoother and reducing engine stalling or clutch wear caused by improper operation. In addition, the setting of the housing provides necessary protection for the worm wheel and the worm, and also helps to reduce the impact of the external environment on the transmission accuracy, such as dust and water resistance, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the entire system. Compared with the traditional manual clutch system, the convenience of operation and driving comfort are significantly improved.

[0011] Preferably, the mechanical control structure includes: a clutch lever for controlling the clutch to be disengaged; a mechanical connecting rod, one end of which is connected to the rotating rod of the worm gear and the other end is connected to the clutch lever, for converting the rotary motion into linear motion to push the clutch to be disengaged; the clutch actuator can be controlled by a motor or by a manual operating lever. The structure includes components such as a clutch lever and a mechanical connecting rod, wherein the clutch lever is used to control the clutch to be disengaged, and the mechanical connecting rod converts the rotary motion of the worm gear into linear motion to push the clutch to be disengaged. This design allows the clutch actuator to be controlled by a motor or by a manual operating lever, providing flexibility and reliability. Compared with the traditional manual clutch, the advantage of this design is that it combines the advantages of automatic and manual control and provides a more flexible driving experience. In automatic mode, the operation of the clutch is precisely controlled by the motor, which reduces the engine stalling or clutch wear caused by improper operation and prolongs the service life of the clutch. At the same time, since the labor intensity of the clutch operation is reduced, the rider can focus more on driving itself and improve safety. In manual mode, the rider can control the clutch according to his own preferences and driving skills, retaining the fun of traditional motorcycle driving. In addition, this solution reduces the maintenance requirements and repair costs of the clutch. By reducing the wear of the clutch, the maintenance frequency can be reduced in the long term, thus saving costs. At the same time, since the clutch operation is more precise, the engine's operating efficiency can be improved, further reducing fuel consumption and improving economy. This design not only meets the needs of different riders by providing dual control modes, but also improves the adaptability and market competitiveness of the motorcycle.

[0012] Further, the manual operating lever allows the user to switch to the mechanical control mode when necessary; the manual operating lever is arranged on the handlebar; the manual operating lever is connected to the clutch lever through a mechanical rocker arm, so that the rider can directly control the separation and engagement of the clutch. This solution allows the rider to directly control the separation and engagement of the clutch through the manual operating lever when the electronic control system fails or under specific driving conditions. The manual operating lever is arranged on the handlebar, which is convenient for the rider to operate quickly. This layout conforms to the principle of ergonomics and ensures that the rider can react quickly in an emergency. The manual operating lever is connected to the clutch lever through a mechanical rocker arm. This mechanical connection method is simple and reliable, and can provide a backup clutch control solution when the electronic control system fails. The mechanical rocker arm and the motor are located on the same side. This layout helps to simplify the space layout of the vehicle, while reducing additional components and complexity, and reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. The advantage of this solution is that it provides a backup control solution for the automatic clutch, which enhances the reliability of the system. In the automatic mode, the operation of the clutch is precisely controlled by the motor, which reduces the operating intensity of the rider and improves the driving comfort and safety. In manual mode, the rider can control the clutch like a traditional manual clutch, which provides an option for riders who prefer the traditional driving feel. By providing dual control modes, this design not only meets the needs of different riders, but also improves the adaptability and market competitiveness of the motorcycle.

[0013] Preferably, the mechanical rocker arm is located on the same side as the motor; the mechanical rocker arm is hingedly connected to the clutch side cover. The mechanical rocker arm is located on the same side as the motor. This layout helps to simplify the space layout of the vehicle, while reducing additional components and complexity, and reducing manufacturing and maintenance costs. The mechanical rocker arm is hingedly connected to the clutch side cover, providing a stable support point to ensure reliability in a high-vibration environment. The design of the mechanical rocker arm needs to consider its strength and durability to withstand repeated operations and potential impacts during riding. At the same time, the articulated design allows a certain degree of freedom to adapt to different clutch operating angles and forces. This design provides higher operating accuracy and lower failure rate compared to traditional manual clutches. Due to the integrated design of the mechanical rocker arm and the motor, it can quickly switch to manual mode when the electronic control system fails, providing a reliable backup control solution and enhancing the safety and reliability of the system.

[0014] As a preferred embodiment, an electronic control unit is included to control the start, stop and speed of the motor; the electronic control unit is fixed inside the frame and connected to the plug of the actuator motor through a wiring harness. The motorcycle automatic clutch realizes precise electronic control of the clutch operation through the introduction of an electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU is fixed inside the frame and connected to the plug of the actuator motor through a wiring harness. This design helps to protect the ECU from the influence of the external environment, such as dust, moisture and impact, thereby improving the reliability and durability of the system. The core function of the ECU is to control the start, stop and speed of the motor, thereby accurately controlling the engagement and disengagement of the clutch. Compared with traditional mechanical control, this electronic control method can provide more accurate and faster response, improve the smoothness of clutch engagement, and reduce engine stalling or clutch wear caused by improper operation. The control strategy of the ECU can be automatically adjusted according to the speed and operating status of the motorcycle, and the engine speed and wheel speed information are collected by sensors to adjust the working state of the clutch in real time to adapt to different driving conditions. This solution provides an intelligent clutch control solution, which allows the rider to focus more on driving itself, especially in the case of frequent starting and stopping in congested sections of the city, reducing the rider's operating intensity and improving safety. At the same time, due to the precise control of the ECU, the clutch engagement and disengagement can be smoother, reducing engine stalling or excessive wear caused by improper operation and extending the service life of the clutch. In addition, this design also has potential energy-saving effects, because ECU control can more accurately match engine output and vehicle needs, reducing unnecessary energy consumption. By introducing the ECU, the motorcycle's automatic clutch system can provide a more intelligent and personalized driving experience, while also providing riders with greater safety and comfort.

[0015] Furthermore, the electronic control unit can automatically adjust the working state of the clutch according to the speed and operating conditions of the motorcycle; the electronic control unit collects engine speed and wheel speed information through sensors. The motorcycle automatic clutch realizes automatic adjustment of the clutch working state through the intelligence of the electronic control unit (ECU). The ECU can automatically manage the engagement and disengagement of the clutch according to the speed and operating conditions of the motorcycle, such as vehicle speed, throttle opening angle, engine speed and other parameters. This intelligent control method makes the operation of the clutch more precise and adaptable, and improves the driving comfort and safety.

[0016] This automatic adjustment function of the ECU collects engine speed and wheel speed information through sensors, and adjusts the working state of the clutch in real time to adapt to different driving conditions. For example, in congested urban traffic, the ECU can reduce the frequent operation of the clutch and reduce driving fatigue. On rough roads, the ECU can ensure that the engine will not stall, allowing the rider to focus on controlling the vehicle, expanding the options and range of activities for motorcycle travel. Through the intelligent control of the ECU, the automatic clutch not only improves driving comfort and safety, but also has potential economic and environmental benefits, providing riders with a more intelligent and personalized driving experience.

[0017] Furthermore, it also includes a fault diagnosis module that can monitor the working status of the motor and mechanical control structure and provide a warning when a fault occurs; the fault diagnosis module is integrated in the electronic control unit and displays the fault information through the instrument panel. This module can monitor the working status of the motor and mechanical control structure and provide a warning when a fault occurs. The fault diagnosis module is integrated in the electronic control unit (ECU) and displays the fault information through the instrument panel. This design enables the rider to understand the status of the clutch system in real time, perform maintenance or repair in time, and avoid potential safety risks caused by clutch failure. The fault diagnosis module may include a series of sensors and diagnostic algorithms that can monitor key parameters such as the current, voltage, and temperature of the motor, as well as the wear status and operating torque of the mechanical clutch. When abnormal data is detected, the diagnostic algorithm will analyze it to determine whether it exceeds the normal working range. Once a fault is detected, the ECU will inform the rider through the warning light or information prompt on the instrument panel. This design of real-time monitoring and warning system not only improves the reliability of the clutch system, but also enhances the rider's driving experience. This solution provides an active fault prevention and handling mechanism. Traditional clutch systems often require riders to judge the clutch status based on experience, but with the fault diagnosis module, the system can automatically monitor and prompt potential problems, reducing accidents and repair costs caused by clutch failure. In addition, this design also helps to extend the service life of the clutch because it allows problems to be discovered and solved before they worsen. By integrating fault diagnosis functions, the motorcycle's automatic clutch system not only improves safety and reliability, but also provides riders with a more convenient and secure driving experience.

[0018] Furthermore, it also includes an energy recovery device arranged on the clutch actuator, including a permanent magnet coaxially connected to the worm gear; a coil group fixed in the housing; a rectifier and an electric storage device; when the worm gear rotates, the permanent magnet moves in the coil group to generate an induced current, which is stored in the electric storage device after rectification. This solution is used to improve the energy efficiency and environmental performance of the motorcycle. In traditional motorcycle designs, the energy during braking is often dissipated in the form of heat energy, while the energy recovery device can convert this part of energy into electrical energy and store it for other electronic systems of the vehicle, such as lighting, audio or auxiliary systems. Such a design not only improves the utilization rate of energy, but also helps to reduce the impact on the environment. Compared with common solutions, the advantage of this design is that it innovatively applies energy recovery technology to the clutch system of the motorcycle. This not only improves the energy utilization efficiency of the motorcycle, but also may provide technical support for the electrification and intelligence of the motorcycle. Through energy recovery, the motorcycle's dependence on fossil fuels can be reduced, emissions can be reduced, and it meets the current requirements for environmental protection and sustainable development. In addition, this design is also potentially economical because it can reduce energy waste and reduce energy costs in long-term use. For riders, this means a more environmentally friendly and economical way of riding without sacrificing the driving experience. Through this innovative energy recovery system, the motorcycle's automatic clutch not only improves driving comfort and safety, but also provides a new solution for the motorcycle's environmental performance and energy efficiency.

[0019] Therefore, the present invention has the following beneficial effects: 1. Automatic clutch control is achieved through the electronic control unit (ECU), which reduces the rider's operating intensity, improves driving safety, reduces clutch wear and extends service life.

[0020] 2. The introduction of the fault diagnosis module enables the system to monitor and warn of potential faults in real time, improving the reliability of the motorcycle and reducing maintenance costs and accident risks.

[0021] 3. The setting of the energy recovery device improves the energy utilization efficiency of the motorcycle, reduces energy loss, is beneficial to environmental protection and reduces energy costs in long-term use.

[0022] 4. The retention of the manual operating lever provides two control modes, automatic and manual, to adapt to the driving habits of different riders and enhance the flexibility of the system and driving experience.

[0023] 5. The same-side layout of the mechanical rocker arm and the motor simplifies the vehicle space layout, reduces manufacturing and maintenance costs, and improves the stability and operational convenience of the clutch control system. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 It is a structural schematic diagram of the present invention.

[0025] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 First-person view assembly diagram of the engine and clutch.

[0026] Figure 3 yes Figure 1 Second perspective assembly diagram of the engine and clutch.

[0027] Figure 4 It is a schematic diagram of the structure of the present invention in Example 2.

[0028] Figure 5 It is a schematic diagram of the clutch structure.

[0029] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 Side cross-section of the clutch.

[0030] In the figure: 100, leg, 1, engine, 2, water pump, 3, muffler, 4, frame, 5, footrest, 6, seat, 7, clutch, 8, clutch side cover, 9, clutch lever, 10, clutch actuator, 11, actuator motor, 12, actuator motor plug, 13, gear shift actuator, 14, rotating rod, 15, housing, 16, turbine, 17, worm. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] The present invention is further described below in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and specific embodiments. Examples of the embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals throughout represent the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions.

[0032] Example 1 like Figure 1 , 2 As shown in the figure, the design of the motorcycle automatic clutch aims to improve the convenience and safety of motorcycle driving, integrating the motor control and mechanical control systems to achieve efficient and flexible clutch operation. The overall structure includes the motor control system, the mechanical control system, the clutch actuator, and the corresponding electronic control unit and fault diagnosis module.

[0033] The overall structure of the motorcycle automatic clutch technical solution of the present application is compact, involving the coordinated work of multiple key components. The engine 1 is used as a power source to transmit power through the crankshaft. The water pump 2 ensures the circulation of the engine coolant, while the muffler 3 reduces the exhaust noise. The frame 4 serves as the main support to fix the engine and other components. The clutch 7 is connected to the engine and is controlled by the clutch side cover 8 and the clutch lever 9. The clutch actuator 10 is located inside the clutch side cover 8 and consists of a turbine 16 and a worm 17, and the worm 17 is directly connected to the output shaft of the actuator motor 11. The actuator motor 11 is fixed to the frame 4 and connected to the electronic control unit (ECU) through the actuator motor plug 12. The gear shift actuator 13 adjusts the gear according to the ECU command, and the rotating rod 14 connects the worm gear 16 and the clutch lever 9 to realize power transmission. The housing 15 protects the internal components and ensures the stable operation of the system. The entire system realizes seamless switching between automatic and manual modes through the carefully designed connection relationship and position layout between components, improving the convenience and safety of driving.

[0034] The independence of the motor control system allows for easy maintenance and replacement. The executive motor 11 is fixed to the frame 4 and is located outside the clutch side cover 8, providing a more compact design for the motorcycle.

[0035] In the mechanical control system, the clutch 7 is designed to be directly connected to the worm output of the motor. The meshing relationship between the worm and the worm wheel is the core of this system. The worm wheel 16 is connected to the clutch lever 9 through the rotating rod 14, forming an effective motion transmission mechanism. This design allows the output rotation of the actuator motor 11 to be converted into the linear motion of the worm wheel 16 through the rotation of the worm 17, thereby directly promoting the separation or engagement of the clutch 7. The application of mechanical linkage further enhances this feature, so that the rotational motion generated by the actuator motor 11 can be efficiently converted into linear motion.

[0036] It is worth noting that in this embodiment, the motorcycle automatic clutch also has the function of manual operation. The design of the manual operating lever enables the user to switch to the mechanical control mode when necessary, thereby enhancing the driving flexibility. The manual operating lever is arranged on the footrest 5, and the rider can directly control the separation and combination of the clutch 7 through the mechanical rocker arm. This design not only provides the rider with the ability of active control, but also ensures the normal operation of the motorcycle when the motor 11 fails or the power supply has problems.

[0037] In the whole system, the electronic control unit (ECU) plays a vital role. This unit is responsible for controlling the start, stop and speed of the actuator motor 11, and can automatically adjust the working state of the clutch 7 according to the speed and operating conditions of the motorcycle. By collecting engine 1 speed and wheel speed information through sensors, the electronic control unit can monitor and optimize the separation and engagement timing of the clutch 7 in real time. This dynamic adjustment capability greatly improves the driving stability and safety of the motorcycle, especially in complex driving environments. The design of the ECU takes into account the operating status of the motorcycle, such as vehicle speed, engine 1 speed, etc., and automatically adjusts the working state of the clutch 7 through an algorithm. In order to improve the reliability of the system, a manual operating lever is added to the design of this embodiment. This operating lever is installed on the footrest 5 and is connected to the clutch lever 9 through a mechanical rocker arm. When the ECU detects a fault or the rider needs manual control, the clutch 7 can be directly controlled by the manual operating lever. This design allows the rider to switch seamlessly between automatic and manual modes, providing more driving options. In the design of the clutch actuator, this embodiment also takes into account the compactness of the spatial layout and structure. The actuator motor 11 is arranged at the lower right or left rear of the clutch 7 ( Figure 1 For the lower right layout, Figure 4 The advantage of the lower right layout is that the motor 11 is close to the clutch 7, which can reduce the energy loss during power transmission and improve the response speed. At the same time, this layout helps to lower the center of gravity and improve the handling stability of the motorcycle. In addition, the lower right layout can better protect the motor 11 and avoid damage to the motor due to external impact. The advantage of the left rear layout is that the position of the motor 11 is relatively higher, which is convenient for heat dissipation and reduces the performance degradation caused by excessive temperature. At the same time, the left rear layout can provide a larger space for the clutch 7, which is convenient for maintenance and adjustment.

[0038] The output shaft of the actuator motor 11 is directly connected to the worm 17. This direct connection method can improve the efficiency of power transmission and reduce energy loss. In order to further enhance the driving experience, this embodiment adds a fault diagnosis module to the system. This module is integrated in the ECU and can monitor the working status of the actuator motor 11 and the mechanical control structure, and provide a warning when a fault occurs. By displaying fault information on the dashboard, the rider can understand the status of the clutch system in real time and perform maintenance or repair in time. In addition, the environmental protection and economy of the system are also the focus of the design of this embodiment. The energy recovery device on the clutch actuator includes a permanent magnet coaxially connected to the worm gear 16, a coil group fixed in the housing 15, a rectifier and a storage device. When the worm gear 16 rotates, the permanent magnet moves in the coil group to generate an induced current, which is stored in the storage device after rectification. This energy recovery method not only improves the efficiency of energy utilization, but also reduces the impact on the environment.

[0039] In practical applications, this embodiment can continuously optimize the control algorithm of the ECU by collecting and analyzing the rider's feedback data to adapt to different driving habits and road conditions. For example, this embodiment can develop an adaptive learning system that can automatically adjust the engagement and disengagement points of the clutch 7 according to the rider's driving style and road condition changes to provide the best driving experience.

[0040] In the motorcycle automatic clutch system of the present invention, the rider's driving experience is greatly optimized, thanks to the refined operation process of the system and the precise coordination of the structure. When the rider starts the motorcycle, the start signal is first sent to the ECU through the start button on the frame 4, and the ECU then activates the execution motor 11, which is located on the outside of the clutch side cover 8 and fixed to the frame 4 through a bracket. The output shaft of the execution motor 11 is directly connected to the worm 17 in the clutch actuator, and the rotation of the worm 17 is transmitted to the clutch lever 9 through the rotating rod 14 to achieve automatic separation of the clutch 7. In the starting stage, the rider lightly twists the throttle, and the execution motor 11 accurately controls the engagement speed of the clutch 7 according to the instructions of the ECU through the coordination of the worm wheel 16 and the worm 17 to ensure a smooth start. In this process, the design of the housing 15 of the clutch actuator plays a protective role and also improves the transmission efficiency. The matching ratio of the worm wheel 16 and the worm 17 is optimized according to the engine 1 parameters of the motorcycle and the characteristics of the clutch 7 to ensure the best torque transmission at different speeds. As the rider accelerates, the gear shift actuator automatically adjusts the gear position according to the feedback from the vehicle speed sensor and the engine 1 speed sensor. At this time, the clutch actuator intervenes again, and the rotation of the worm wheel 16 accurately controls the rotating rod 14 through the worm 17 to achieve a smooth gear shift experience. During this process, the water pump 2 continues to work to ensure the circulation of the engine 1 coolant, while the muffler 3 effectively reduces the exhaust noise and improves the rider's comfort. When the rider needs to slow down or stop, the ECU will adjust the rotation of the worm wheel 16 through the actuator motor 11 according to the vehicle speed and the engine 1 status, thereby controlling the separation of the clutch 7. In this process, the design of the clutch side cover 8 not only provides space for the leg 100, but also optimizes the aerodynamic performance and reduces wind resistance. During the installation of the system, it should be noted that the actuator motor plug 12 must be correctly connected to the ECU to ensure accurate signal transmission. At the same time, the installation position and angle of the clutch actuator need to be accurately adjusted to ensure the meshing accuracy of the worm 17 and the worm wheel 16. In addition, the length and position of the clutch lever 9 also need to be fine-tuned according to the rider's height and driving habits to ensure comfortable operation.

[0041] In practical applications, the advantage of this embodiment lies in its high adaptability and flexibility. For example, in congested urban roads, the automatic clutch can greatly reduce the rider's operating burden, while on long-distance trips, the rider can switch to manual mode at any time through the manual operating lever to enjoy more direct driving control. In addition, the energy recovery device recovers energy during braking to provide auxiliary power for the motorcycle's electronic system, reducing dependence on the main battery.

[0042] like Figure 5 , 6 As shown, during the entire operation process, the dynamic operation process of the clutch is completed by multiple key components. First, the clutch side cover 8, as the shell of the clutch actuator, provides necessary protection and support, and also provides a basis for the installation of the actuator motor 11, worm 17, worm wheel 16 and other components. The clutch actuator is composed of the worm 17 and the worm wheel 16. The worm 17 is directly connected to the output shaft of the actuator motor 11 to form an efficient power transmission path.

[0043] Example 2 like Figure 3 , 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the driver can switch between automatic and manual modes by rotating the manual operating lever on the handle. In automatic mode, the electronic control unit (ECU) automatically adjusts the timing of clutch separation and engagement based on real-time data such as engine speed and wheel speed. The ECU monitors the state of the engine through sensors and feeds this information back to the control module. At this time, the executive motor starts according to the instructions of the ECU, drives the worm to rotate, and then realizes the linear movement of the worm wheel through the meshing relationship between the worm and the worm wheel, pushes the clutch lever, and completes the separation or engagement of the clutch.

[0044] In manual mode, the rider can directly control the operation of the clutch through a mechanical rocker arm. The mechanical rocker arm is connected to the clutch lever through a rotating rod, allowing the rider to manually control the clutch state in the event of a motor failure or power problem. This design not only enhances the rider's autonomy, but also improves the motorcycle's ability to cope with various environments. When dealing with complex road conditions, the driver can flexibly adjust the clutch state to optimize power output, ensure control accuracy and driving safety.

[0045] During the installation of the entire clutch system, attention should be paid to the selection of the motor position. The motor is usually arranged at the lower right or left rear of the clutch to reduce the impact of external forces on the motor and improve the heat dissipation efficiency. Under this layout, the connection between the motor output shaft and the worm should maintain good coaxiality to improve the efficiency of power transmission and reduce energy loss. In addition, the housing design of the clutch actuator must ensure its sealing to prevent lubricating oil leakage and the intrusion of external contaminants to ensure the long-term stable operation of the system. During the production process, the various components of the automatic clutch must undergo strict quality control. The manufacture of the worm and worm wheel must ensure an accurate tooth ratio, and the roughness of the tooth surface is usually required to be controlled below Ra0.8 to reduce wear and noise. In terms of material selection, the worm can be made of high-strength alloy steel to improve its wear resistance and strength; the worm wheel can be made of heat-resistant plastic or composite material, which is both light and durable. The selection of the actuator motor is also very critical. It needs to be matched according to the specifications of the motorcycle and the expected load to ensure its stability under high load and low speed conditions.

[0046] In actual driving experience, the dynamic adjustment capability of the automatic clutch system significantly improves the driving stability and safety of the motorcycle. Especially during starting, acceleration and deceleration, the quick response of the clutch can effectively prevent engine overload or flameout. At the same time, the fault diagnosis module integrated in the system can monitor the working status of the motor and mechanical control structure in real time. If a fault occurs, the ECU will immediately send an alarm to the dashboard to remind the rider to perform maintenance or repair. This function not only ensures the normal operation of the motorcycle, but also enhances the rider's sense of security.

[0047] It is worth mentioning that the environmental protection and economic efficiency of the system are also important considerations of this design. By integrating the energy recovery device, when the worm gear rotates, the additional permanent magnet and the coil group work together to convert part of the kinetic energy into electrical energy and store it in the storage device. This not only improves the utilization rate of energy, but also reduces the energy consumption of the motorcycle to a certain extent, making a positive contribution to environmental protection.

[0048] In production, the design of this embodiment takes modularity and compatibility into consideration to facilitate quick installation and commissioning on different models of motorcycles. For example, the clutch actuator and ECU can be produced and tested as independent modules, and then adapted according to the specific model. This modular design not only improves production efficiency, but also reduces maintenance costs. In terms of material selection, key components of the system, such as the clutch side cover, housing, and worm, are made of high-strength lightweight materials to ensure strength and durability while reducing the weight of the vehicle. In the design, we also took into account the thermal expansion coefficient and material fatigue life to ensure performance stability under extreme temperatures and long-term use.

[0049] In summary, the motorcycle automatic clutch system of the present invention provides a new driving experience for the rider through a sophisticated dynamic operation process and structural design. The system reduces the rider's operating burden in automatic mode and retains the driving pleasure in manual mode. The introduction of the energy recovery device not only improves energy efficiency but also reduces environmental impact.

[0050] Example 3 This embodiment may consider parallel solutions, such as using an energy recovery system different from that of embodiment 1, such as a solar panel or a kinetic energy recovery system, to further improve energy efficiency. In addition, this embodiment may also explore the use of different materials or manufacturing processes to reduce the weight of the clutch system and improve its durability. For example, using carbon fiber composite materials to manufacture the clutch cover, or using ceramic-based materials to manufacture the clutch plate, can improve the response speed and wear resistance of the system.

[0051] In addition, considering the user experience comprehensively, this embodiment can further optimize the following aspects: Feedback mechanism: Adding tactile feedback or visual indication between manual operation and motor control helps the rider get a more intuitive feeling when switching modes, improving driving safety and confidence. The introduction of the feedback mechanism can enhance the interactive experience between the rider and the vehicle. The mechanism monitors the real-time status of the clutch by installing sensors on the clutch actuator and transmits this data to the ECU. After processing this information, the ECU provides feedback to the rider through a tactile feedback device (such as a vibrating handle) or a visual indication (such as an LED indicator on the dashboard). This design allows the rider to intuitively feel the working status of the clutch when switching between automatic and manual modes, thereby improving driving safety and confidence. When the rider starts the motorcycle, the ECU adjusts the output of the motor based on the feedback from the sensor to control the engagement of the clutch. If the system detects that the clutch is not engaging smoothly, the tactile feedback device will prompt the rider through vibration, and the visual indicator will flash to remind the rider to perform appropriate operations. This real-time feedback mechanism not only improves the accuracy of clutch operation, but also enhances the rider's perception of the vehicle status, making the driving process safer and more controllable.

[0052] Adaptive algorithm: A more advanced adaptive algorithm is introduced to automatically adjust the clutch response time and force according to the rider's driving habits and environmental changes, thereby improving the comfort and flexibility of control.

[0053] The adaptive algorithm automatically adjusts the response time and force of the clutch by analyzing the rider's driving habits and real-time road conditions. For example, the system will intelligently adjust the clutch engagement speed according to the rider's acceleration habits and road conditions to provide the best acceleration performance. The introduction of this adaptive algorithm makes the clutch operation more in line with the rider's driving style, improving driving comfort and flexibility. The adaptive algorithm continuously learns the rider's driving behavior during the motorcycle's driving, such as frequent shifting habits, acceleration and deceleration preferences, etc. Through this data, the system automatically adjusts the control parameters of the clutch to make shifting smoother and reduce engine stalling or clutch wear caused by improper operation. For example, on uphill sections, the system will automatically extend the clutch engagement time to provide a more stable torque output, helping the rider to control the vehicle more easily.

[0054] Integration of smart technology: Consider combining with smartphone applications to provide data monitoring and fault diagnosis functions, so that riders can view the system status in real time through their mobile phones, and even receive warning information when a fault occurs. The system provides data monitoring and fault diagnosis functions through the combination with smartphone applications. Riders can view the status of the clutch in real time through the mobile phone application, including clutch temperature, wear and system diagnosis results. In the event of a fault, the system will send a warning message to the rider through the mobile phone application, prompting the rider to check or repair it in time. When the rider encounters a clutch problem during driving, the mobile phone application will immediately receive a fault notification and provide a fault code and possible solutions. Riders can decide whether to continue driving or stop for inspection based on this information. This integration of smart technology not only improves the diagnostic efficiency of the system, but also provides more convenience and safety for riders. With the assistance of smart technology, riders can focus more on driving and enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable riding experience.

[0055] In addition, other optimizations and improvements can be made to this embodiment. For example, the clutch assembly can be made of lighter and wear-resistant materials to reduce the overall weight, improve the performance of the motorcycle, and increase durability. Or the design of the instrument panel can be optimized to make the display of fault diagnosis and system status more user-friendly, so that the rider can quickly obtain information during driving. Performance under different climatic conditions can also be considered, such as the reliability of the motor and transmission system under extreme temperatures, to ensure that the system can work stably in various environments.

[0056] Through the above optimization directions, the design of motorcycle automatic clutch can not only improve the convenience and safety of driving, but also further enhance the user experience and enhance market competitiveness. Overall, the innovative design of this system provides an important reference and reference for the intelligent development of modern motorcycles, and fully reflects the huge potential brought by the combination of mechanical and electronic control technologies.

Claims

1. A motorcycle automatic clutch, characterized in that: It includes a motor control system and a mechanical control system. The motor of the motor control system is independent of the engine and can be disassembled and assembled separately. The mechanical control system includes a clutch and a clutch side cover provided with a leg placement position, and also includes a clutch actuator that avoids the clutch side cover; The motor is fixed on the vehicle frame through a bracket and is located on the outer side of the clutch side cover.

2. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 1, characterized in that: The motor is arranged at the lower right or rear left of the clutch; the output shaft of the motor is directly connected to the worm in the clutch actuator.

3. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 2, characterized in that: The clutch actuator includes a worm connected to the output shaft of the actuator motor and a worm wheel matched with the worm. The worm wheel controls the clutch through a rotating rod. A housing is provided outside the worm wheel and the worm.

4. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 1, characterized in that: The mechanical control structure includes: a clutch lever, which can control the clutch to disengage; a mechanical connecting rod, one end of which is connected to the rotating rod of the worm gear and the other end is connected to the clutch lever, which converts the rotational motion into linear motion to promote the clutch to disengage; the clutch actuator can be controlled by a motor or a manual operating lever.

5. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 4, characterized in that: The manual operating lever allows the user to switch to the mechanical control mode when needed; the manual operating lever is arranged on the handlebar; the manual operating lever is connected to the clutch lever through a mechanical rocker arm, so that the rider can directly control the separation and engagement of the clutch.

6. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 5, characterized in that: The mechanical rocker arm is located on the same side as the motor; the mechanical rocker arm is hingedly connected to the clutch side cover.

7. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that: An electronic control unit is included to control the start, stop and speed of the motor; the electronic control unit is fixed inside the vehicle frame and connected to the plug of the actuator motor through a wiring harness.

8. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 7, characterized in that: The electronic control unit can automatically adjust the working state of the clutch according to the speed and operating conditions of the motorcycle; the electronic control unit collects engine speed and wheel speed information through sensors.

9. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 1, characterized in that: It also includes a fault diagnosis module that can monitor the working status of the motor and mechanical control structure and provide warnings when a fault occurs; the fault diagnosis module is integrated in the electronic control unit and displays fault information through the instrument panel.

10. The automatic clutch for motorcycle according to claim 3, characterized in that: It also includes an energy recovery device arranged on the clutch actuator, including a permanent magnet coaxially connected to the worm gear; a coil group fixed in the housing; a rectifier and a power storage device; when the worm gear rotates, the permanent magnet moves in the coil group to generate an induced current, which is stored in the power storage device after rectification.

Citation Information

Patent Citations

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Cited By

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