Clutch device and motorcycle

Abstract

A clutch device (210) is provided with: a clutch center sleeve (240) that is rotationally driven together with an output shaft (15); and a pressure plate (270) which is provided so as to be able to approach or separate from and rotate relative to the clutch center sleeve (240), and which is capable of pressing the input-side rotating plate (20) and the output-side rotating plate (22), the clutch center sleeve (240) being provided with a flange (268) that extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body (242), the flange (268) being provided with: a pressing surface (268A) that presses the input-side rotating plate (20) and the output-side rotating plate (22) from the outer peripheral edge of the main body (242); a pressing plate (20) which is positioned closer to the first direction (D1) than the input-side rotating plate (20) and the output-side rotating plate (22), and which applies a pressing force to the input-side rotating plate (20) and the output-side rotating plate (22); and a through-hole (269) formed further inward in the radial direction than the pressing surface (268A).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clutch device and a motorcycle, and more particularly to a clutch device that arbitrarily transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input shaft rotationally driven by a prime mover such as an engine to an output shaft, and a motorcycle equipped with the clutch device. Background Art

[0002] 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 connected to an output shaft that transmits the rotational driving force to the drive wheel. The input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates are alternately arranged in the stacking direction, and the rotational driving force is transmitted or cut off by pressing and separating the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates.

[0003] For example, Patent Documents 1 and 2 disclose a clutch device including a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach and separate from the clutch center sleeve. The pressure plate includes a flange that presses an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate. The rotational driving force is transmitted by pressing the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate with the flange. In this way, in the clutch device, the clutch center sleeve and the pressure plate are assembled and used. Prior art literature Patent Literature

[0004] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6894792 Patent document 2: International Publication No. 2018 / 172176. Summary of the invention Problems to be solved by the invention

[0005] However, since relative sliding occurs between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate, erosion may occur on the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. In order to suppress the erosion, clutch oil is supplied to the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. For example, in Patent Document 2, clutch oil is discharged from the inside of the pressure plate to the outside and supplied to the output-side rotating plate and the input-side rotating plate. Here, since the clutch oil flows outside the clutch center sleeve, if the clutch oil can be effectively supplied to the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate, the erosion of the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate can be further suppressed.

[0006] 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 more effectively supplying clutch oil to an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate, and a motorcycle including the clutch device. Means for solving problems

[0007] The clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, and includes: a clutch hub, 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 is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate, which is provided to be able to approach or leave the clutch hub and to be relatively rotatable, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and is able to press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates. The clutch hub includes: a main body and a flange extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body, and the flange includes: a pressing surface and a through hole. When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch hub is set as a first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate leaves the clutch hub is set as a second direction, the pressing surface is located on the first direction side of the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, and applies a pressing force to the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates. The through hole is formed radially inward of the pressing surface.

[0008] According to the clutch device of the present invention, the flange has a through hole formed on the radially inner side of the pressing surface. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center sleeve flows toward the pressing surface through the through hole. Here, since the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate are arranged on the second direction side of the pressing surface, the clutch oil flowing toward the pressing surface through the through hole is supplied to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. In this way, the flange of the clutch center sleeve has a through hole on the radially inner side of the pressing surface, thereby enabling the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center sleeve to be effectively supplied to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. Effects of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device capable of more efficiently supplying clutch oil to an input-side rotating plate and an output-side rotating plate. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 It is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device according to an embodiment. Figure 2 It is a perspective view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment. Figure 3 It is a top view of a clutch center sleeve according to one embodiment. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment. Figure 5A It is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment. Figure 5B It is along Figure 5A Cross-sectional view of the VB-VB line in FIG. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment. Figure 7 It is a top view of a pressing plate according to one embodiment. Figure 8 It is a plan view showing a state where a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate according to an embodiment are assembled. Fig. 9A This 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. Fig. 9B This 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. Fig.10 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve and a pressure plate according to another embodiment. Fig.11A It is a top view of a clutch center sleeve according to another embodiment. Fig. 11B It is along Fig.11A Cross-sectional view of the XIB-XIB line in FIG. Fig.12 It is a perspective view of a pressing plate according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0011] Hereinafter, the embodiment of the clutch device of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the embodiment described here is of course not intended to 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.

[0012] Figure 1 1 is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device 10 according to 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.

[0013] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 and the clutch center sleeve 40 are arranged is referred to as direction D, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center sleeve 40 is referred to as first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 leaves the clutch center sleeve 40 is referred to as second direction D2. In addition, the circumferential direction of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 is referred to as 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 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 along the first circumferential direction S1. However, the above directions are merely directions determined for the convenience of explanation, and do not limit the arrangement of the clutch device 10, nor the present invention.

[0014] 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.

[0015] like Figure 1 As shown, the output shaft 15 has a push rod 16A and a pressing member 16B disposed adjacent to the push rod 16A in the hollow portion 15H thereof. The hollow portion 15H has a function as a flow 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 pressing member 16B are arranged to be able to slide in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15. One end portion (the end portion on the left side in the figure) of the push rod 16A is connected to the clutch operating lever (not shown) of the motorcycle, and the push rod 16A slides in the hollow portion 15H by operating the clutch operating lever, pressing the pressing member 16B in the second direction D2. A portion of the pressing member 16B protrudes outward (in the second direction D2 in this case) of the output shaft 15, and is connected to the release bearing 18 disposed on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the pressing member 16B are formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the hollow portion 15H, and the flowability of the clutch oil is ensured in the hollow portion 15H.

[0016] The clutch housing 30 is formed of an aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed into a bottomed cylindrical shape. Figure 1As 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.

[0017] 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.

[0018] 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.

[0019] The input side rotating plate 20 is a component pressed against the output side rotating plate 22. The input side rotating plate 20 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The input side rotating plate 20 is formed by punching a thin plate made of SPCC (cold rolled steel plate) material into a ring shape. Friction 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.

[0020] like Figure 1 As 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.

[0021] 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 in 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 interlocking portion 58.

[0022] 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 is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 50 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0023] like Figure 2 As shown, the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch sleeve 40 is arranged at a radially outer side than the output shaft holding portion 50. A spline fitting portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45. The spline fitting portion 46 includes a plurality of sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 extending in the axial direction of the clutch sleeve 40 along the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45, a plurality of spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 and extending in the axial direction of the clutch sleeve 40, and an oil discharge hole 49. The sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 hold the output-side rotating plate 22. The plurality of sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 are formed in the same shape. The sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 45A of the outer peripheral wall 45. The number of sleeve-side fitting teeth 47 may be a multiple of the number of sleeve-side cam portions 60. In the present embodiment, as described later, the number of the center sleeve side cam portions 60 is 3, and the number of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 is 30. In addition, the number of the center sleeve side engaging teeth 47 may not be a multiple of the number of the center sleeve side cam portions 60. The oil drain hole 49 is formed to penetrate the outer peripheral wall 45 in the radial direction. The oil drain hole 49 is formed between adjacent center sleeve side engaging teeth 47. That is, the oil drain hole 49 is formed in the spline groove 48. The oil drain hole 49 is formed on the side of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The oil 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 oil drain hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the first circumferential direction S1 side than the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The oil drain hole 49 is formed at a position closer to the second circumferential direction S2 side than the boss portion 54 described later. In the present embodiment, three oil drain holes 49 are formed at three locations in the circumferential direction S of the outer peripheral wall 45. The drain holes 49 are arranged at positions with equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The drain holes 49 connect the inside and outside of the clutch sleeve 40. The drain holes 49 are holes for discharging the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 into the clutch sleeve 40 to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40. Here, the drain holes 49 discharge the clutch oil flowing on the inner peripheral surface 45B side of the outer peripheral wall 45 to the outside of the clutch sleeve 40. At least a part of the drain holes 49 is provided at a position facing the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 described later.

[0024] 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 to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0025] 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 may be provided on the output side rotating plate 22 instead of the input side rotating plate 20, or may be provided on the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 respectively.

[0026] The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed into a table shape having a cam surface, and the cam surface is composed of an inclined surface that constitutes an assist and slide (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, that is, 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, that is, 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.

[0027] like Figure 3As 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 of the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 (in a direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center sleeve 40) when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby increasing the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. 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. In addition, the pressure plate 70 may also be physically displaced relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to cause the pressure plate 70 to move away from the clutch center sleeve 40 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby reducing the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. 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.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, the clutch center 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 Figure 1 The threaded hole 54H extends along the axial direction of the clutch center sleeve 40.

[0029] 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 penetrates the base wall 43 in the direction D. 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 with a portion of the center sleeve side cam hole 43H.

[0030] like Figure 2As 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 45B of the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is configured to be slidably fitted externally to the pressure plate side fitting portion 88 (see Figure 4 The inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 is formed to have a diameter that allows the output shaft 15 to be inserted from the terminal end portion 15T (see Figure 1 ) The fitting tolerance of the clutch oil flowing out of the center sleeve side fitting part 58 relative to the pressure plate side fitting part 88. That is, a gap is formed between the center sleeve side fitting part 58 and the pressure plate side fitting part 88 described later. In the present embodiment, for example, the center sleeve side fitting part 58 is formed to have an inner diameter that is 0.1 mm larger than the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting part 88. The dimensional tolerance between the inner diameter of the center sleeve side fitting part 58 and the outer diameter of the pressure plate side fitting part 88 is appropriately set according to the amount of clutch oil to be circulated, for example, 0.1 mm or more and 0.5 mm or less.

[0031] like Figure 1 As 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 pressure plate 70 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20. The output side rotating plate 22 is arranged to be able to displace along the axial direction of the pressure plate 70. The output side rotating plate 22 is arranged to be able to rotate integrally with the pressure plate 70.

[0032] 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 ).

[0033] like Figure 4 As shown, the flange 98 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 72. Here, the flange 98 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The flange 98 has a surface 98F and a back surface 98R (see Figure 6). The surface 98F is an example of a surface on the first direction side. The back surface 98R is an example of a surface on the second direction side. The flange 98 includes: a pressing surface 98A that applies a pressing force to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22; a meshing tooth forming surface 98B that is located radially inward of the pressing surface 98A; and a connecting surface 98C that is located radially inward of the meshing tooth forming surface 98B. The pressing surface 98A, the meshing tooth forming surface 98B, and the connecting surface 98C are provided on the surface 98F. The pressing surface 98A is a surface that directly or indirectly contacts the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressing surface 98A is located on the second direction D2 side than the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressing surface 98A sandwiches the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 between the pressing surface 98A and the flange 68 of the clutch center sleeve 40. The interlocking tooth forming surface 98B is adjacent to the radial inner side of the pressing surface 98A. The pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77 described later are formed on the interlocking tooth forming surface 98B. The connecting surface 98C is connected to the main body 72. Here, the connecting surface 98C is connected to the pressure plate side interlocking portion 88. The connecting surface 98C is located radially between the main body 72 and the pressure plate side interlocking teeth 77. The connecting surface 98C is adjacent to the radial inner side of the interlocking tooth forming surface 98B. The interlocking tooth forming surface 98B and the connecting surface 98C are formed to be roughly flush. Here, roughly flush includes a state in which the surfaces of each other are completely flush and there is no step at all and a state in which the surfaces of each other have a step of about 0mm to 0.3mm but are roughly flush. In the present embodiment, the interlocking tooth forming surface 98B and the connecting surface 98C are formed to be completely flush.

[0034] like Figure 4 and Figure 5A As shown, the flange 98 has a through hole 99. The through hole 99 penetrates the flange 98 along the direction D. In the present embodiment, the through hole 99 is formed at three locations of the flange 98 in the circumferential direction S. The three through holes 99 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, the number of the through holes 99 is not limited to 3. In addition, the plurality of through holes 99 may also be arranged at unequal intervals. The through hole 99 is formed at a position radially inward of the pressing surface 98A. The through hole 99 is formed in the engaging tooth forming surface 98B. In the present embodiment, the through hole 99 is formed from the engaging tooth forming surface 98B to the connecting surface 98C. The through hole 99 is located between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the circumferential direction S. The through hole 99 is formed in the second portion 98T of the flange 98 described later. The through hole 99 is located radially outside the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The through hole 99 is located radially outside the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side. Figure 5BAs shown, in the through hole 99, when the inner diameter of the opening end 99A on the first direction D1 side of the flange 98 is set to H1, the inner diameter of the first opening end 99B on the second direction D2 side of the flange 98 is set to H2, and the inner diameter of the second opening end 99C on the second direction D2 side of the flange 98 is set to H3, the relationship of H1<H2<H3 is established. Here, the second opening end 99C is located closer to the second direction D2 side than the first opening end 99B. The through hole 99 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the first opening end 99B on the second direction D2 side of the flange 98 and the opening area of ​​the second opening end 99C are larger than the opening area of ​​the opening end 99A on the first direction D1 side of the flange 98. Alternatively, H1=H2<H3 may be satisfied. In this case, the through hole 99 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the second opening end 99C on the second direction D2 side of the flange 98 is larger than the opening area of ​​the opening end 99A on the first direction D1 side of the flange 98. In the present embodiment, the through hole 99 is formed so that the opening area increases as the surface 98F of the flange 98 approaches the back surface 98R. The through hole 99 is formed so that the inner diameter increases as the surface 98F of the flange 98 approaches the back surface 98R. The through hole 99 is formed so that the cross-sectional area increases as the surface 98F of the flange 98 approaches the back surface 98R. In order to make it easier for the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 to flow into the through hole 99, the through hole 99 is countersunk from the back surface 98R of the flange 98, and the inner diameter H3 of the opening end (i.e., the second opening end 99C) on the second direction D2 side of the through hole 99 is the largest. When assembling the clutch device 10, a dedicated jig is inserted into the through hole 99. The jig is inserted from the outside (back surface 98R side) of the pressure plate 70 along the first direction D1. The positions of the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are adjusted by using the jig. When the assembly of the clutch device 10 is completed, the clamp is removed, and thus the through hole 99 is opened. Therefore, when the clutch device 10 is used, that is, when the pressure plate 70 rotates, the clutch oil flowing toward the edge along the back surface 98R of the pressure plate 70 due to the centrifugal force easily flows into the through hole 99. Thus, the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 located between the output side rotating plate 22 and the output side rotating plate 22 held by the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77.

[0035] 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 terminal 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 pressing member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the terminal end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0036] The platen-side cam portion 90 is formed in a table shape having a cam surface, which is composed of an inclined surface constituting an assist and slide 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.

[0037] 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 (also refer to Figure 7 ) and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to be able to contact the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force from the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 (the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center sleeve 40) to increase the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when relatively rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to be able to contact the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to make the pressure plate 70 leave the clutch center sleeve 40 to reduce the pressing force (pressing force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 when relatively rotating relative to 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.

[0038] 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. 9A As shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. Therefore, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 70 by the action of the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. As a result, the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is increased.

[0039] 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 generates reverse torque, as shown in FIG. Fig. 9BAs 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 and the transmission caused by reverse torque can be avoided.

[0040] like Figure 4 as well as Figure 5A As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure plate side cam hole 73H that passes through 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 a position radially outward of the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. The pressure plate side cam hole 73H is formed between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. 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 portions 90. As shown in FIG. Figure 5A as well as 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.

[0041] 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.

[0042] 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 obtained by winding spring steel into a spiral shape.

[0043] like Figure 4 As shown, the platen side fitting portion 88 is provided on the main body 72. The platen side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the platen side cam portion 90. The platen side fitting portion 88 is located on the second direction D2 side from the platen side cam portion 90. The platen side fitting portion 88 is configured to be slidably fitted into the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 (see Figure 2 ).

[0044] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 formed on the flange 98. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward from the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are located radially outward from the pressure plate side engaging portion 88. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are formed on an engaging tooth forming surface 98B of the flange 98. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 protrude from the engaging tooth forming surface 98B in the first direction D1. The plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, in the present embodiment, since a portion of the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is removed, the interval between the portions is wider, but other adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals. That is, as Figure 5A As shown, the flange 98 has a first portion 98S in which the interval in the circumferential direction S between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is a first length A1, and a second portion 98T in which the interval in the circumferential direction S between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is a second length A2 longer than the first length A1. The second portion 98T is located radially outside the pressure plate side cam portion 90. In the present embodiment, the second portion 98T is located radially outside the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The second portion 98T is located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. The second portion 98T is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the spring accommodation portion 84.

[0045] Figure 8 4 is a top view showing the state in which the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 are combined. Figure 8 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. Figure 8 In the state shown (the state during assembly), the circumferential distance L1 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 the circumferential distance L2 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) in the normal state.

[0046] like Figure 1As shown in FIG. 1 , the stopper plate 100 is provided so as to be in contact with the pressure plate 70. The stopper plate 100 is a member for preventing the pressure plate 70 from 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 by tightening the bolt 28 through the stopper plate 100 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.

[0047] 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 is separated from the side wall of the spring receiving portion 84. That is, the pressure spring 25 is not clamped by the boss portion 54 and the spring receiving portion 84, and excessive stress on the boss portion 54 is suppressed.

[0048] 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 then is 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 fitting portion 88 and the oil drain hole 49. In addition, the clutch oil flows outside the pressure plate 70. Figure 1 As shown by the arrow FS, the clutch oil flows from the back side 98R of the flange 98 to the surface 98F through the through hole 99 formed in the flange 98, and is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. 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.

[0049] Next, the operation of the clutch device 10 of this 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 disconnects the rotational driving force of the engine to the transmission when the driver operates the clutch lever.

[0050] In the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle 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 driven to rotate in a clutch engagement state in which the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are pressed against each other and frictionally connected. That is, the rotational driving force of the engine is transmitted to the clutch center 40, and the output shaft 15 is driven to rotate.

[0051] In the clutch engaged state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the terminal end 15T of the output shaft 15 falls or flies into the tubular portion 80 and adheres thereto (see Figure 1 The clutch oil adhering to the cylindrical portion 80 is guided into the clutch center sleeve 40. As a result, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch center sleeve 40 through the oil drain hole 49. In addition, the clutch oil flows out to the outside of the clutch center sleeve 40 through the gap between the center sleeve side fitting portion 58 and the pressure plate side fitting portion 88. Moreover, the clutch oil flowing out to the outside of the clutch center sleeve 40 is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. Furthermore, the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 flows into the surface 98F side of the flange 98 through the through hole 99 (refer to Figure 1 The energy is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 as indicated by the arrow FS).

[0052] On the other hand, in the clutch device 10, when the driver of the motorcycle operates the clutch lever in the clutch engaged state, 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 (second direction D2) away from the clutch hub 40. As a result, the clutch hub 40 is in a clutch disconnected state in which the friction connection between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 is released, and thus the rotation drive is attenuated or stopped. That is, the rotation drive force of the engine is cut off with respect to the clutch hub 40.

[0053] In the clutch disengaged state, the clutch oil flowing in the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15 and flowing out from the terminal portion 15T of the output shaft 15 is guided into the clutch hub 40 in the same manner as in the clutch engaged state. At this time, the pressure plate 70 is separated from the clutch hub 40, so the amount of engagement with 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 more actively to the outside of the clutch hub 40 and flows to various places inside the clutch device 10. In particular, the clutch oil can be actively guided between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 that are separated from each other.

[0054] 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 pressing member 16B, so that the pressure plate 70 is displaced in a direction (first direction D1 ) approaching the clutch base 40 by the urging force of the pressure spring 25 .

[0055] As described above, according to the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the flange 98 includes the through hole 99 formed on the radially inner side than the pressing surface 98A. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 flows toward the pressing surface 98A through the through hole 99, for example, by centrifugal force. Here, since the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are arranged on the first direction D1 side than the pressing surface 98A, the clutch oil flowing toward the pressing surface 98A through the through hole 99 is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In this way, the flange 98 of the pressure plate 70 includes the through hole 99 at a position radially inner than the pressing surface 98A, thereby enabling the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 to be effectively supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0056] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the through hole 99 is formed so that the opening area increases from the front surface 98F of the flange 98 toward the back surface 98R of the flange 98. This allows the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 to flow into the through hole 99 more easily.

[0057] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the through hole 99 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the first opening end 99B on the second direction D2 side of the flange 98 is larger than the opening area of ​​the opening end 99A on the first direction D1 side of the flange 98. According to the above embodiment, the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 flows into the through hole 99 more easily.

[0058] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 70 includes a plurality of pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 formed on the flange 98, holding the output side rotating plate 22 and arranged in the circumferential direction S, the flange 98 includes an engaging tooth forming surface 98B adjacent to the radial inner side of the pressing surface 98A and formed with the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77, and the through hole 99 is formed on the engaging tooth forming surface 98B. According to the above-mentioned mode, since the through hole 99 is formed on the engaging tooth forming surface 98B adjacent to the pressing surface 98A, the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 99 flows more toward the pressing surface 98A.

[0059] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the flange 98 has a connecting surface 98C located between the main body 72 and the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 in the radial direction and adjacent to the radial inner side of the engaging tooth forming surface 98B, and the through hole 99 is formed from the engaging tooth forming surface 98B to the connecting surface 98C. According to the above embodiment, since the through hole 99 is relatively large, the clutch oil flowing outside the pressure plate 70 is more likely to flow into the through hole 99.

[0060] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the flange 98 has a first portion 98S in which the interval in the circumferential direction S between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is a first length A1, and a second portion 98T in which the interval in the circumferential direction S between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 is a second length S2 longer than the first length A1, and the through hole 99 is formed in the second portion 98T. According to the above manner, the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 99 is not hindered by the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 and flows more smoothly toward the pressing surface 98A.

[0061] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the pressure plate 70 includes a pressure plate side cam portion 90, which is provided on the main body 72 and has at least one of a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and a pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. When the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the clutch center sleeve 40, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A generates a force in the direction from the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S causes the pressure plate 70 to separate from the clutch center sleeve 40 to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The through hole 99 is located radially outside the pressure plate side cam portion 90. According to the above embodiment, a part of the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 99 flows toward the pressure plate side cam portion 90, and the clutch oil can be supplied to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S.

[0062] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the engaging tooth forming surface 98B and the connecting surface 98C are formed to be substantially flush. According to the above-mentioned method, a part of the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 99 flows more smoothly toward the pressure plate side cam portion 90, and the clutch oil can be supplied to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S.

[0063] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure plate side cam portion 90 has a pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S, and the through hole 99 is located radially outside the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. According to the above embodiment, a part of the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 99 can be more reliably supplied to the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S.

[0064] <Second Embodiment> Fig.10 It is an exploded perspective view of a clutch center sleeve 240 and a pressure plate 270 of a clutch device 210 according to the second embodiment.

[0065] The clutch center sleeve 240 is received in the clutch housing 30 (see Figure 1 ). The clutch center sleeve 240 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. Fig.10As shown, the clutch center sleeve 240 has a main body 242 and a flange 268 connected to the outer peripheral edge of the main body 242 on the first direction D1 side and extending radially outward. The main body 242 protrudes in the second direction D2 than the flange 268. The clutch center sleeve 240 does not hold the output side rotating plate 22. The clutch center sleeve 240 is connected to the output shaft 15 (refer to Figure 1 ) are driven to rotate together.

[0066] like Fig.10 As shown, the main body 242 includes an output shaft holding portion 250, a plurality of center sleeve side cam portions 60, and a center sleeve side fitting portion 258. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 250.

[0067] The output shaft holding portion 250 is formed in a cylindrical shape. Figure 1 ) is inserted and splined. The insertion hole 251 is formed to penetrate the main body 242. The inner peripheral surface 250A forming the insertion hole 251 in the output shaft holding portion 250 is formed with a plurality of spline grooves along the axial direction. The output shaft holding portion 250 is connected to the output shaft 15.

[0068] like Fig.10 As shown, the clutch center 240 includes a plurality of (three in this embodiment) boss portions 54 . The boss portions 54 are located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 250 . The boss portions 54 are provided on the main body 242 .

[0069] like Fig.10 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 240 has a center sleeve side cam hole 243H that penetrates the main body 242 and a part of the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H penetrates the main body 242 and the flange 268 along the direction D. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H extends from the side of the output shaft holding portion 250 to the flange 268. The center sleeve side cam hole 243H 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 240, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a part of the center sleeve side cam hole 243H.

[0070] like Fig.10 As shown, the center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is provided on the main body 242. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is located radially outward of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is located on the first direction D1 side of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The center sleeve side fitting portion 258 is configured to be slidably fitted into the pressure plate side fitting portion 288 (refer to Fig.12 ).

[0071] like Fig.10 As shown, the flange 268 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 242. Here, the flange 268 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the center sleeve side fitting portion 258. The flange 268 has a surface 268F and a back surface 268R (refer to Fig. 11B ). The surface 268F is an example of a surface on the second direction side. The back surface 268R is an example of a surface on the first direction side. The flange 268 includes a pressing surface 268A that applies a pressing force to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22, and a connecting surface 268C that is located radially inward of the pressing surface 268A. The pressing surface 268A and the connecting surface 268C are provided on the surface 268F. The pressing surface 268A is a surface that directly or indirectly contacts the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressing surface 268A is located on the first direction D1 side than the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressing surface 268A sandwiches the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 between the pressing surface 268A and the flange 298 of the pressure plate 270. The connecting surface 268C is connected to the main body 24. The connecting surface 268C is located on the first direction D1 side than the pressing surface 268A.

[0072] like Fig.10 and Fig.11A As shown, the flange 268 has a through hole 269. The through hole 269 penetrates the flange 268 in the direction D. In the present embodiment, the through hole 269 is formed through three locations of the flange 268 in the circumferential direction S. The three through holes 269 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, the number of the through holes 269 is not limited to three. In addition, the plurality of through holes 269 may be arranged at unequal intervals. The through hole 269 is formed at a position radially inward of the pressing surface 268A. The through hole 269 is formed in the connecting surface 268C. The through hole 269 is located radially outward of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The through hole 269 is located radially outward of the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The through hole 269 is located radially outward of the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. In addition, the through hole 269 may be arranged at a position offset from the center sleeve side cam portion 60 in the circumferential direction S. For example, the through hole 269 may be provided radially outward from the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and between the center sleeve side cam portions 60 adjacent in the circumferential direction S. Fig. 11BAs shown, in the through hole 269, when the inner diameter of the opening end 269A on the second direction D2 side of the flange 268 is set to H4, the inner diameter of the first opening end 269B on the first direction D1 side of the flange 268 is set to H5, and the inner diameter of the second opening end 269C on the first direction D1 side of the flange 268 is set to H6, the relationship of H4<H5<H6 is established. Here, the second opening end 269C is located closer to the first direction D1 side than the first opening end 269B. The through hole 269 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the first opening end 269B on the first direction D1 side of the flange 268 and the opening area of ​​the second opening end 269C are larger than the opening area of ​​the opening end 269A on the second direction D2 side of the flange 268. In addition, H4=H5<H6 may also be established. In this case, the through hole 269 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the second opening end 269C on the first direction D1 side of the flange 268 is larger than the opening area of ​​the opening end 269A on the second direction D2 side of the flange 268. In the present embodiment, the through hole 269 is formed so that the opening area increases as the surface 268F of the flange 268 approaches the back surface 268R. The through hole 269 is formed so that the inner diameter increases as the surface 268F of the flange 268 approaches the back surface 268R. The through hole 269 is formed so that the cross-sectional area increases as the surface 268F of the flange 268 approaches the back surface 268R. In order to make it easier for the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center sleeve 240 to flow into the through hole 269, the through hole 269 is counterbored from the back surface 268R of the flange 268, and the inner diameter H6 of the opening end (i.e., the second opening end 269C) on the first direction D1 side of the through hole 269 is the largest. When assembling the clutch device 210, a dedicated jig is inserted into the through hole 269. The jig is inserted from the outside (the back surface 268R side) of the clutch hub 240 in the second direction D2. The positions of the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are adjusted by using the jig. When the assembly of the clutch device 210 is completed, the jig is removed, and thus the through hole 269 is opened. Therefore, when the clutch device 210 is used, that is, when the clutch hub 240 rotates, the clutch oil that flows toward the edge along the back surface 268R of the clutch hub 240 due to the centrifugal force easily flows into the through hole 269. As a result, the clutch oil can be efficiently supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0073] The pressure plate 270 is provided to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve 240 and to be relatively rotatable. The pressure plate 270 is configured to be able to press the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 270 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center sleeve 240 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 270 has a cylindrical main body 272 and a flange 298 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body 272. The pressure plate 270 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20 in the direction D.

[0074] like Fig.12 As shown, the main body 272 includes: an annular base wall 273; an outer peripheral wall 275 located radially outside the base wall 273 and extending toward the first direction D1; a cylindrical portion 280 provided at the center of the base wall 273; a plurality of pressure plate side cam portions 90 connected to the base wall 273 and the outer peripheral wall 275; a pressure plate side fitting portion 288; and a spring receiving portion 84 (see Fig.10 The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the main body 272 in the first direction D1. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 280. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially inside the outer peripheral wall 275.

[0075] The cylindrical portion 280 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 280 is formed integrally with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 280 accommodates the terminal end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 The release bearing 18 is housed in the cylindrical portion 280 (see Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 280 is a portion that receives the pressing force from the pressing member 16B. The cylindrical portion 280 is a portion that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the terminal end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0076] like Fig.12As shown, the outer peripheral wall 275 of the pressure plate 270 is arranged radially outward from the cylindrical portion 280. The outer peripheral wall 275 is formed into a circular ring extending in the direction D. A spline fitting portion 276 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The spline fitting portion 276 has a plurality of pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270 along the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275, a plurality of spline grooves 278 formed between adjacent pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 and extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 270, and an oil drain hole 279. The pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 hold the output side rotating plate 22. The plurality of pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 are formed in the same shape. The pressure plate side engaging teeth 277 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface 275A of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil drain holes 279 are formed by penetrating the outer peripheral wall 275 in the radial direction. The oil drain holes 279 are formed between adjacent pressure plate side engaging teeth 277. That is, the oil drain holes 279 are formed in the spline grooves 278. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the side of the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A of the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the first circumferential direction S1 side than the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. The oil drain holes 279 are formed on the second circumferential direction S2 side than the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. In the present embodiment, three oil drain holes 279 are formed at three locations in the circumferential direction S of the outer peripheral wall 275. The oil drain holes 279 are arranged at positions equally spaced in the circumferential direction S. The drain hole 279 connects the inside and outside of the pressure plate 270. The drain hole 279 is a hole for discharging the clutch oil that has flowed out from the output shaft 15 into the pressure plate 270 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. Here, the drain hole 279 discharges the clutch oil that has flowed on the inner peripheral surface 275B side of the outer peripheral wall 275 to the outside of the pressure plate 270. At least a portion of the drain hole 279 is provided on the side of the center sleeve fitting portion 258 (see Fig.10 ) facing each other.

[0077] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 276 of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate side fitting teeth 277 and the spline groove 278 by spline fitting. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be displaceable along the axial direction of the pressure plate 270. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided to be rotatable integrally with the pressure plate 270.

[0078] like Fig.10 as well as Fig.12As shown, the pressure plate 270 has a pressure plate side cam hole 273H that penetrates a portion of the base wall 273. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is an example of a through hole. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H penetrates the base wall 273 in the direction D. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to the outer peripheral wall 275. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H is formed between adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90. The pressure plate side cam hole 273H 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 270, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps with a portion of the pressure plate side cam hole 273H. The clutch oil flows into the pressure plate side cam hole 273H from the outside of the pressure plate 270.

[0079] like Fig.12 As shown, the platen side fitting portion 288 is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 280. The platen side fitting portion 288 is located radially outward from the platen side cam portion 90. The platen side fitting portion 288 is located on the first direction D1 side from the platen side cam portion 90. The platen side fitting portion 288 is formed on the inner peripheral surface 275B of the outer peripheral wall 275. The platen side fitting portion 288 is configured to be slidably fitted on the center sleeve side fitting portion 258 (see Fig.10 ). A gap is formed between the pressure plate side fitting portion 288 and the center sleeve side fitting portion 258.

[0080] As described above, according to the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the flange 268 includes the through hole 269 formed on the radially inner side of the pressing surface 268A. Therefore, the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch hub 240 flows toward the pressing surface 268A through the through hole 269, for example, by centrifugal force. Here, since the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 are arranged on the second direction D2 side of the pressing surface 268A, the clutch oil flowing toward the pressing surface 268A through the through hole 269 is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In this way, the flange 268 of the clutch hub 240 includes the through hole 269 on the radially inner side of the pressing surface 268A, thereby enabling the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch hub 240 to be effectively supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22.

[0081] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, the through hole 269 is formed so that the opening area increases from the surface 268F of the flange 268 toward the back surface 268R of the flange 268. In this way, the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center sleeve 240 flows into the through hole 269 more easily.

[0082] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the through hole 269 is formed so that the opening area of ​​the first opening end 269B on the first direction D1 side of the flange 268 is larger than the opening end 269A on the second direction D2 side of the flange 268. According to the above configuration, the clutch oil flowing outside the clutch center sleeve 240 flows into the through hole 269 more easily.

[0083] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the clutch sleeve 240 includes a sleeve-side cam portion 60, which is provided on the main body 242 and has at least one of a sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S. When the sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A relatively rotates with respect to the pressure plate 270, a force is generated in a direction from the pressure plate 270 toward the clutch sleeve 240 to increase the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. The sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S causes the pressure plate 270 to separate from the clutch sleeve 240 to reduce the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. The through hole 269 is located radially outward of the sleeve-side cam portion 60. According to the above-mentioned mode, a part of the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 269 flows toward the sleeve-side cam portion 60, and the clutch oil can be supplied to the sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S.

[0084] In the clutch device 210 of the present embodiment, the center sleeve side cam portion 60 has a center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, and the through hole 269 is located radially outside the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. According to the above embodiment, a part of the clutch oil flowing into the through hole 269 can be more reliably supplied to the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S.

[0085] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the above-described embodiments are merely examples, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms.

[0086] In each of the above-mentioned embodiments, the center sleeve side cam portion 60 includes the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, but it is sufficient to include at least one of them.

[0087] In each of the above-described embodiments, the platen-side cam portion 90 includes the platen-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the platen-side sliding cam surface 90S, but it is sufficient to include at least one of them.

[0088] In the first embodiment described above, the through hole 99 is formed from the fitting tooth forming surface 98B to the connecting surface 98C, but the present invention is not limited thereto and the through hole 99 may be formed only on the connecting surface 98C.

[0089] In the first embodiment described above, the output shaft holding portion 50 of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the spline fitting portion 46 formed on the outer peripheral wall 45 are formed integrally, but they may be formed separately. That is, the clutch center sleeve 40 includes a first clutch member having the output shaft holding portion 50 and a second clutch member formed separately from the first clutch member and having the spline fitting portion 46, and the first clutch member and the second clutch member may be used in combination.

[0090] In the second embodiment described above, the clutch center sleeve 240 is configured not to hold the output side rotating plate 22, but the present invention is not limited thereto. The clutch center sleeve 240 may also have center sleeve side engaging teeth having a structure similar to the pressure plate side engaging teeth 77 of the first embodiment that can hold the output side rotating plate 22. Description of Reference Numerals

[0091] 20 Input side rotating plate 22 Output side rotating plate 30 Clutch housing 60 center sleeve side cam 60A center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60S center sleeve side sliding cam surface 210 Clutch Device 240 clutch center sleeve 242 Main Body 268 flange 268A Pressing surface 268C connection surface 268F surface (surface on the second direction side) 268R back side (first direction side) 269 ​​through holes 270 pressure plate.

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 housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft, and is driven to rotate together with the output shaft; as well as A pressure plate is arranged to be able to approach or leave the clutch center sleeve and to be relatively rotatable, and to hold a plurality of output side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input side rotating plates, and to press the input side rotating plates and the output side rotating plates, The clutch center sleeve has: main body; A flange extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the main body; A plurality of center sleeve side cam portions, which are provided on the main body and have at least one of a center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface and a center sleeve side sliding cam surface, wherein when the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface rotates relative to the pressure plate, the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface generates a force from the pressure plate toward the clutch center sleeve to increase the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate, and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to leave the clutch center sleeve to reduce the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; and The center sleeve side cam hole is formed through the adjacent center sleeve side cam parts. The flange has: The pressing surface is located closer to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate in the first direction when the direction in which the pressing plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is set as a first direction and the direction in which the pressing plate leaves the clutch center sleeve is set as a second direction, and applies a pressing force to the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate; as well as The through hole is formed radially inward of the pressing surface.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein: The through hole is formed so that the opening area increases as the surface of the flange on the second direction side approaches the surface of the flange on the first direction side.

3. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein: The through hole is formed such that an opening area of ​​an opening end of the flange on the first direction side is larger than an opening area of ​​an opening end of the flange on the second direction side.

4. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The through hole is located radially outward of the center sleeve-side cam portion.

5. The clutch device according to claim 4, wherein: The through hole is located radially outside the center sleeve-side cam portion.

6. The clutch device according to claim 5, wherein: The center sleeve side cam portion has the center sleeve side sliding cam surface, The through hole is located radially outside the sliding cam surface on the center sleeve side.

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

Images