Clutch device

Abstract

The present invention is provided with: a clutch center section (40) that is rotationally driven together with an output shaft (15); and a pressure plate (70) provided so as to be able to approach or separate from the clutch center section (40) and to be able to rotate relative to the clutch center section (40), the clutch center section (40) being provided with an output shaft holding section (42) to which the output shaft (15) is connected, the output shaft holding section (42) being provided with an insertion hole (45) into which the output shaft (15) is inserted. An oil groove (42P) communicating with the insertion hole (45), extending in the radial direction of the output shaft (15), extending from the insertion hole (45) to an outer edge (42DO) in the radial direction of the end surface (42D1) in the first direction (D1) and allowing clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft (15) to flow is formed in the end surface (42D1) of the output shaft holding part (42) in the first direction (D1).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a clutch device. Background Art

[0002] A straddle-type vehicle such as a two-wheeled motor vehicle is equipped with a clutch device that can transmit and cut off the rotational driving force of a power source such as an engine to a drive wheel. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a clutch device that has an input member (hereinafter referred to as an input shaft) connected to the engine side, an output member (hereinafter referred to as an output shaft) connected to the drive wheel side, a clutch member (hereinafter referred to as a clutch center portion) connected to the output shaft, and a pressure member (hereinafter referred to as a pressure plate) that can approach or separate from the clutch center portion. Here, the clutch center portion is fixed to the output shaft in order to transmit the rotational driving force input from the input shaft to the output shaft. The clutch center portion includes an output shaft holding portion that connects to the output shaft, and an insertion hole for inserting the output shaft is formed in the output shaft holding portion. In addition, clutch oil circulates in the output shaft, and the clutch oil flows out to the outside from a specified portion of the output shaft.

[0003] Prior Art Documents

[0004] Patent Documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2022-030211 Summary of the Invention

[0006] Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] In addition, components such as a gasket and an auxiliary clutch plate can be arranged on the end face of the output shaft holding portion of the clutch center portion on the side opposite to the side where the pressure plate is arranged. Therefore, this end face is mostly machined flat. However, since the machined flat end face is in close contact with components such as a gasket, there is a problem that the clutch oil flowing in the output shaft cannot be sufficiently supplied to the components located radially outside the output shaft holding portion.

[0008] The present invention has been completed in view of this point, and an object thereof is to provide a clutch device that can supply the clutch oil flowing in the output shaft to the components located radially outside the output shaft holding portion.

[0009] Technical Means for Solving the Problems

[0010] The clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device that transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, and includes: a clutch center portion that is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational driving of the input shaft, and holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and rotates together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach or separate from the clutch center portion and be able to rotate relatively, and can press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates. The clutch center portion includes an output shaft holding portion that connects the output shaft, and the output shaft holding portion has an insertion hole into which the output shaft is inserted. When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center portion is set as the first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate separates from the clutch center portion is set as the second direction, an oil groove is formed on the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction. The oil groove communicates with the insertion hole, extends in the radial direction of the output shaft, and extends from the insertion hole to the outer edge in the radial direction of the end surface in the first direction, and allows the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft to flow.

[0011] In the clutch device according to the present invention, the oil groove formed on the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction communicates with the insertion hole, extends in the radial direction of the output shaft, and extends from the insertion hole to the outer edge in the radial direction of the end surface in the first direction. Therefore, for example, even if components such as gaskets are arranged on the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft via the oil groove can be supplied from the outer edge in the radial direction of the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction to the outside (for example, the input-side rotating plates, the output-side rotating plates).

[0012] Advantages of the Invention

[0013] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device that can supply the clutch oil flowing in the output shaft to components located radially outside the output shaft holding portion. Description of the Drawings

[0014] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view of a clutch device according to an embodiment.

[0015] Figure 2 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of a part of a clutch device according to an embodiment.

[0016] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a first clutch center portion according to an embodiment.

[0017] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a first clutch center portion according to an embodiment.

[0018] Figure 5It is a top view of the center part of the first clutch according to an embodiment.

[0019] Figure 6 It is a bottom view of the center part of the first clutch according to an embodiment.

[0020] Figure 7 It is a perspective view of the center part of the second clutch according to an embodiment.

[0021] Figure 8 It is a top view of the center part of the second clutch according to an embodiment.

[0022] Figure 9 It is a perspective view of the pressure plate according to an embodiment.

[0023] Figure 10 It is a top view of the pressure plate according to an embodiment.

[0024] Figure 11 It is a cross-sectional view of the centrifugal clutch mechanism according to an embodiment.

[0025] Figure 12 It is a perspective view of a part of the centrifugal clutch mechanism according to an embodiment being broken.

[0026] Figure 13 It is a perspective view of the auxiliary clutch plate according to an embodiment.

[0027] Figure 14 It is a perspective view of the auxiliary clutch plate according to an embodiment.

[0028] Figure 15A It is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the center side auxiliary cam surface and the pressure side auxiliary cam surface.

[0029] Figure 15B It is a schematic diagram for explaining the functions of the center side sliding cam surface and the pressure side sliding cam surface. Detailed Embodiment

[0030] Hereinafter, embodiments of the clutch device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In addition, the embodiments described herein are of course not intended to particularly limit the present invention. In addition, the same reference numerals are assigned to components and parts having the same functions, and repeated descriptions are appropriately omitted or simplified.

[0031] Figure 1This is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device 10 according to the present embodiment. The clutch device 10 is provided, for example, in a straddle-type vehicle such as a two-wheeled motor vehicle. The clutch device 10 is a device that transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of an engine, which is the power source of a two-wheeled motor vehicle, to the output shaft 15. 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 disposed between the engine and the transmission.

[0032] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 approaches and separates from the clutch center portion 40 is defined as the direction D, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center portion 40 is defined as the first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 separates from the clutch center portion 40 is defined as the second direction D2. In addition, the circumferential direction of the clutch center portion 40 and the pressure plate 70 is defined as the circumferential direction S, and the direction from one pressure-side cam portion 90 toward the other pressure-side cam portion 90 (the direction from one center-side cam portion 60 toward the other center-side cam portion 60) in the circumferential direction S is defined as the first circumferential direction S1 (refer to Figure 3 ), and the direction from the other pressure-side cam portion 90 toward one pressure-side cam portion 90 (the direction from the other center-side cam portion 60 toward one center-side cam portion 60) is defined as the second circumferential direction S2 (refer to Figure 3 ). In the present embodiment, the axial direction of the output shaft 15 is the same as the direction D. In addition, the pressure plate 70 and the clutch center portion 40 rotate in the first circumferential direction S1 (that is, the direction from the center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one center-side cam portion 60 toward the center-side sliding cam surface 60S). However, the above directions are merely directions determined for convenience of explanation, and do not limit the installation manner of the clutch device 10 in any way, nor do they limit the present invention in any way.

[0033] As Figure 1 shown, the clutch device 10 includes an output shaft 15, a plurality of input-side rotating plates 20, a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center portion 40, a pressure plate 70, a stopper plate 100, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, and an auxiliary clutch plate 150.

[0034] As Figure 1 shown, the output shaft 15 is a hollow shaft body. One end of the output shaft 15 rotatably supports the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 described later via a needle bearing 28A. The output shaft 15 fixedly supports the clutch center portion 40 via a nut 28B. That is, the output shaft 15 rotates integrally with the clutch center portion 40. The other end of the output shaft 15 is connected, for example, to a transmission (not shown) of a two-wheeled motor vehicle.

[0035] AsFigure 1 As shown, the output shaft 15 has a main body portion 15A extending in the direction D and a communication hole 15B formed in the main body portion 15A. The main body portion 15A has an oil flow path 15H inside thereof for the clutch oil to flow through. The oil flow path 15H is formed between the sleeve 16C and the main body portion 15A, and the sleeve 16C is externally fitted to a push rod 16A described later. The clutch oil flows inside the output shaft 15, that is, inside the oil flow path 15H of the main body portion 15A. The communication hole 15B extends in the radial direction of the output shaft 15 (hereinafter referred to as the radial direction, and the radial direction is a direction orthogonal to the direction D). The communication hole 15B communicates with the oil flow path 15H. A part of the clutch oil flowing in the oil flow path 15H flows into the communication hole 15B. For example, one or two communication holes 15B are formed in the main body portion 15A. As Figure 2 shown, at least a part of the communication hole 15B is located between the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of an output shaft holding portion 42 described later and the end face 47D1 in the first direction D1 of an engaging tooth 47 described later in the axial direction (i.e., the direction D) of the output shaft 15.

[0036] As Figure 1 shown, a push rod 16A and a pressing member 16B adjacent to the push rod 16A are provided in the oil flow path 15H of the output shaft 15. The push rod 16A and the pressing member 16B are provided so as to be slidable within the sleeve 16C. One end (the left end in the figure) of the push rod 16A is connected to a clutch operating lever (not shown) of the two-wheeled motor vehicle, and slides within the sleeve 16C by the operation of the clutch operating lever to press the pressing member 16B in the second direction D2. A part of the pressing member 16B protrudes outward (here, the second direction D2) of the output shaft 15 and is connected to a release bearing 18 provided on a pressure plate 70. The sleeve 16C and the pressing member 16B are formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the main body portion 15A, and the fluidity of the clutch oil is ensured within the oil flow path 15H.

[0037] The clutch housing 30 is formed of aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape. As Figure 1 shown, the clutch housing 30 has a bottom wall 31 formed in a substantially circular shape and a side wall 33 extending from the edge portion of the bottom wall 31 in the second direction D2. The clutch housing 30 holds a plurality of input side rotating plates 20.

[0038] As Figure 1 shown, an input gear 35 is provided on the bottom wall 31 of the clutch housing 30. The input gear 35 is fixed to the bottom wall 31 via a torque buffer 35A by a rivet 35B. The input gear 35 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) that rotates by the rotational drive of the input shaft of the engine. The input gear 35 is rotationally driven integrally with the clutch housing 30 independently of the output shaft 15.

[0039] The input-side rotating plate 20 is rotationally driven by the rotation of the input shaft. As Figure 1 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 on the clutch housing 30 by spline fitting. The input-side rotating plate 20 is arranged to be displaceable along the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch housing 30. The input-side rotating plate 20 is arranged to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0040] The input-side rotating plate 20 is a member pressed against the output-side rotating plate 22. The input-side rotating plate 20 is a flat plate formed in a ring shape. The input-side rotating plate 20 is formed by casting aluminum alloy. A friction material (not shown) composed of a plurality of paper pieces is pasted on the front and back surfaces of the input-side rotating plate 20. Grooves for holding the clutch oil with a depth of several μm to several tens of μm are formed between the friction materials.

[0041] As Figure 1 shown, the clutch center portion 40 is housed in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center portion 40 is arranged concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center portion 40 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 arranged alternately with the input-side rotating plate 20 in the direction D. The clutch center portion 40 is rotationally driven together with the output shaft 15. The clutch center portion 40 includes a first clutch center portion 41 and a second clutch center portion 51. The first clutch center portion 41 and the second clutch center portion 51 are assembled with each other. The second clutch center portion 51 is located on the radially outer side of the first clutch center portion 41. The second clutch center portion 51 is externally fitted to the first clutch center portion 41.

[0042] As Figure 3 shown, the first clutch center portion 41 includes an output shaft holding portion 42, an annular base wall 43 located on the radially outer side of the output shaft holding portion 42, and a plurality of center-side cam portions 60.

[0043] As Figure 1 shown, the output shaft 15 is connected to the output shaft holding portion 42. As Figure 3 shown, the output shaft holding portion 42 is formed in a cylindrical shape. An insertion hole 45 for inserting the output shaft 15 and for spline fitting is formed in the output shaft holding portion 42. The insertion hole 45 penetrates through the output shaft holding portion 42. A plurality of fitting teeth 47 extending in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15 are formed on the inner wall 45A of the output shaft holding portion 42 that divides the insertion hole 45. The fitting teeth 47 are fitted with the output shaft 15.

[0044] As Figure 4As shown, an oil groove 42P for the flow of clutch oil is formed in the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42. The oil groove 42P extends in the radial direction of the output shaft 15. The oil groove 42P communicates with the insertion hole 45. The oil groove 42P extends from the insertion hole 45 to the radial outer edge 42DO of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1. The oil groove 42P is recessed from the end face 42D1 in the second direction D2. Here, two oil grooves 42P are formed in the end face 42D1, but the number of oil grooves 42P is not limited to two. The two oil grooves 42P are provided at positions opposite to each other. As Figure 2 shown, the oil groove 42P is located radially outside the communication hole 15B of the output shaft 15.

[0045] As Figure 4 shown, at least a part of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is located on the first direction D1 side with respect to the end face 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the engaging teeth 47. Here, the entire end face 42D1 is located on the first direction D1 side with respect to the end face 47D1. A stepped portion 48 is formed between the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 and the end face 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the engaging teeth 47. In the present embodiment, the stepped portion 48 is formed over the entire circumference of the output shaft holding portion 42 (over the entire circumference of the insertion hole 45). Clutch oil is temporarily held in the stepped portion 48. As Figure 6 shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the diameter R1 of the portion of the insertion hole 45 divided by the inner edge 42I of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is larger than the diameter R2 of the portion of the insertion hole 45 divided by the radially inner edge portion 47I of the engaging teeth 47 (the imaginary circle passing through the edge portion 47I).

[0046] The center side cam portion 60 is formed in a table shape having a cam surface constituted by inclined surfaces forming an Assist & Slipper (registered trademark) mechanism, and the Assist & Slipper mechanism generates an assist torque which is a force that increases the pressing force (contact pressure) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 or a slip torque which is a force that reduces the pressing force (contact pressure) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 and causes a transition to a semi-engaged state. As Figure 3 shown, the center side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the surface 43D2 on the second direction D2 side of the base wall 43. As Figure 5 shown, the center side cam portions 60 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the first clutch center portion 41. In the present embodiment, the first clutch center portion 41 has three center side cam portions 60, but the number of center side cam portions 60 is not limited to three.

[0047] As Figure 3As shown, the central-side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 42. The central-side cam portion 60 has a central-side auxiliary cam surface 60A (also refer to Figure 6 ), and a central-side sliding cam surface 60S. The central-side auxiliary cam surface 60A is configured to generate a force in the direction of approaching the clutch center portion 40 of the pressure plate 70 when relatively rotating with respect to the pressure plate 70, in order to increase the pressing force (contact force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. In the present embodiment, when generating the above force, the position of the pressure plate 70 with respect to the clutch center portion 40 does not change, and the pressure plate 70 does not need to physically approach the clutch center portion 40. In addition, the pressure plate 70 may also be physically displaced with respect to the clutch center portion 40. The central-side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to separate the pressure plate 70 from the clutch center portion 40 when relatively rotating with respect to the pressure plate 70, in order to reduce the pressing force (contact force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. Among the central-side cam portions 60 adjacent in the circumferential direction S, the central-side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one central-side cam portion 60L and the central-side sliding cam surface 60S of the other central-side cam portion 60M are relatively arranged in the circumferential direction S.

[0048] As Figure 3 shown, the first clutch center portion 41 includes a plurality of (three in the present embodiment) boss portions 62. The boss portions 62 are components for fixing the pressure plate 70. The plurality of boss portions 62 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The boss portions 62 are formed in a cylindrical shape. The boss portions 62 are located at a position radially outside the output shaft holding portion 42. The boss portions 62 extend toward the pressure plate 70 (i.e., toward the second direction D2). The boss portions 62 are provided on the central-side cam portion 60. The boss portions 62 are provided between the central-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the central-side sliding cam surface 60S in the circumferential direction S. A threaded hole 62H for inserting a bolt 28 (refer to Figure 1 ) is formed in the boss portion 62. The threaded hole 62H extends along the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch center portion 40.

[0049] As Figure 5 shown, the first clutch center portion 41 has a central-side cam hole 43H that penetrates a part of the base wall 43. The central-side cam hole 43H penetrates the base wall 43 in the direction D. The central-side cam hole 43H is located between adjacent central-side cam portions 60 in the circumferential direction S. As Figure 6 shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the clutch center portion 40, a part of the central-side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with the central-side cam hole 43H.

[0050] As Figure 3 shown, the first clutch center portion 41 has a plurality of engaging grooves 49. The engaging grooves 49 are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the base wall 43. The engaging grooves 49 are recessed radially inward from the outer peripheral surface of the base wall 43.

[0051] As Figure 7 shown, the second clutch center portion 51 includes an annular outer peripheral wall 52, a flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral wall 52, and a center side fitting portion 54. The second clutch center portion 51 holds a plurality of output side rotating plates 22 that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate 20 in the direction D.

[0052] As Figure 7 shown, a spline fitting portion 56 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52. The spline fitting portion 56 has: a plurality of center side fitting teeth 57 that extend in the axial direction (i.e., the direction D) of the second clutch center portion 51 along the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52; a plurality of spline grooves 58 that are formed between adjacent center side fitting teeth 57 and extend in the axial direction (i.e., the direction D) of the second clutch center portion 51; and an oil discharge hole 59. The center side fitting teeth 57 hold the output side rotating plates 22. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 57 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 57 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center side fitting teeth 57 are formed in the same shape. The center side fitting teeth 57 project radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52. The oil discharge hole 59 is formed to penetrate the outer peripheral wall 52 in the radial direction. The oil discharge hole 59 is formed between adjacent center side fitting teeth 57. That is, the oil discharge hole 59 is formed in the spline groove 58. The oil discharge hole 59 is formed in the center side fitting portion 54. The oil discharge hole 59 communicates the inside of the second clutch center portion 51 with the outside. The oil discharge hole 59 is a hole for discharging clutch oil and the like that flows out from the output shaft 15 into the clutch center portion 40 to the outside of the clutch center portion 40. The clutch oil discharged from the oil discharge hole 59 is supplied to the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22 located radially outside the oil discharge hole 59.

[0053] The output side rotating plate 22 is held by the spline fitting portion 56 and the pressure plate 70 of the second clutch center portion 51. A part of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the center side fitting teeth 57 and the spline grooves 58 of the second clutch center portion 51 through spline fitting. Another part of the output side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure side fitting teeth 77 (refer to Figure 9 ) of the pressure plate 70 to be described later. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction (i.e., the direction D) of the clutch center portion 40. The output side rotating plate 22 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center portion 40.

[0054] The output-side rotating plate 22 is a component that is 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 casting aluminum alloy. In addition, the friction material provided on the input-side rotating plate 20 may be provided on the output-side rotating plate 22 instead of 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.

[0055] As Figure 7 shown, the center-side fitting portion 54 is formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52. The center-side fitting portion 54 is configured to be slidably externally fitted to a pressure-side fitting portion 88 (see Figure 9 ). The inner diameter of the center-side fitting portion 54 is formed to have a fitting tolerance that allows the clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1 ) with respect to the pressure-side fitting portion 88 to flow through. That is, a gap is formed between the center-side fitting portion 54 and the pressure-side fitting portion 88.

[0056] As Figure 7 and Figure 8 shown, the second clutch center portion 51 has a plurality of engaging protrusions 55. The engaging protrusions 55 are engaged with the engaging grooves 49 of the first clutch center portion 41 (see Figure 3 ). The engaging protrusions 55 are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52. The engaging protrusions 55 project toward the inside in the radial direction from the inner peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 52. The engaging protrusions 55 are located at a position closer to the first direction D1 than the oil discharge hole 59.

[0057] As Figure 1 shown, the pressing plate 70 is provided so as to be able to approach or separate from the clutch center portion 40 and to be able to rotate relatively. The pressing plate 70 is configured to be able to press the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. The pressing plate 70 is arranged concentrically with the clutch center portion 40 and the clutch housing 30. As Figure 9 shown, the pressing plate 70 has a main body 72 and a flange 98 that is connected to the outer peripheral edge on the second direction D2 side of the main body 72 and extends radially outward. The main body 72 projects toward the first direction D1 more than the flange 98. The flange 98 is located at a position radially outside a later-described cylindrical portion 80. The pressing plate 70 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plate 20. The flange 98 is configured to be able to press the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0058] As Figure 9 shown, the main body 72 includes a cylindrical portion 80, a plurality of pressure-side cam portions 90, a pressure-side fitting portion 88, and a spring housing portion 84 (see Figure 1 ).

[0059] As Figure 9As shown, the cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 is formed integrally with the pressure-side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 80 houses the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (refer to Figure 1 ). The release bearing 18 is housed in the cylindrical portion 80 (refer to Figure 1 ). The cylindrical portion 80 is the portion that receives the pressing force from the pressing member 16B (refer to Figure 1 ) via the release bearing 18. The cylindrical portion 80 is the portion that receives the clutch oil flowing out from the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0060] The pressure-side cam portion 90 is formed in a table shape having a cam surface formed by an inclined surface of an Assist & Slipper (registered trademark) mechanism that generates an assist torque or a sliding torque by sliding on the center-side cam portion 60. As Figure 9 shown, the pressure-side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude in the first direction D1 from the flange 98. As Figure 10 shown, the pressure-side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the pressure plate 70. In the present embodiment, the pressure plate 70 has three pressure-side cam portions 90, but the number of pressure-side cam portions 90 is not limited to three.

[0061] As Figure 10 shown, the pressure-side cam portion 90 is located on the outer side in the radial direction of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side cam portion 90 has a pressure-side assist cam surface 90A (also refer to Figure 9 ) and a pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is configured to be able to contact the center-side assist cam surface 60A. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force in the direction of approaching the clutch center portion 40 of the pressure plate 70 in order to increase the pressing force (contact pressure) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 when rotating relative to the clutch center portion 40. The pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to be able to contact the center-side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to separate the pressure plate 70 from the clutch center portion 40 in order to reduce the pressing force (contact pressure) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 when rotating relative to the clutch center portion 40. In the pressure-side cam portions 90 adjacent to each other in the circumferential direction S, the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A of one pressure-side cam portion 90L and the pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S of the other pressure-side cam portion 90M are arranged opposite to each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0062] Here, the functions of the center-side cam portion 60 and the pressure-side cam portion 90 will be 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 portion 40, as Figure 15AAs shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. Therefore, due to the action of the center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 70. Thereby, the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is increased.

[0063] On the other hand, when the rotational speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotational speeds of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 and a reverse torque is generated, as Figure 15B shown, a rotational force in the first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center portion 40. Therefore, due to the action of the center-side sliding cam surface 60S and the pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S, the pressure plate 70 moves in the second direction D2 to release the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. Thereby, it is possible to avoid adverse conditions for the engine and transmission caused by the reverse torque.

[0064] As Figure 10 shown, the pressure-side fitting portion 88 is located at a position radially outside the pressure-side cam portion 90. The pressure-side fitting portion 88 is located on the second direction D2 side of the pressure-side cam portion 90. The pressure-side fitting portion 88 is configured to be slidably fitted into the center-side fitting portion 54 (refer to Figure 7 ).

[0065] As Figure 9 and Figure 10 shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure-side cam hole 73H that penetrates a part of the through-body 72 and the flange 98. The pressure-side cam hole 73H is located at a position radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side cam hole 73H extends from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to a position radially outside the pressure-side fitting portion 88. The pressure-side cam hole 73H is formed between the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure-side cam portion 90. As Figure 10 shown, when viewed from the axial direction of the pressure plate 70, a part of the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A overlaps with the pressure-side cam hole 73H. The boss portion 62 of the first clutch center portion 41 is inserted into the pressure-side cam hole 73H (refer to Figure 3 ).

[0066] As Figure 9As shown, the pressure plate 70 includes a plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth 77 disposed on the flange 98. The pressure-side engaging teeth 77 hold the output-side rotating plate 22. The pressure-side engaging teeth 77 project from the flange 98 toward the first direction D1. The pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are located at a position radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are located at a position radially outside the pressure-side cam portion 90. The pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are located at a position radially outside the pressure-side engaging portion 88. The plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, in the present embodiment, a part of the pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are removed, so the interval of this part is enlarged, but the other adjacent pressure-side engaging teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0067] As Figure 1 shown, a spring housing portion 84 is formed in the pressure-side cam portion 90. The spring housing portion 84 is formed to be recessed from the second direction D2 toward the first direction D1 (also refer to Figure 15A ). The spring housing portion 84 is formed in a circular shape. The spring housing portion 84 houses the pressure spring 25.

[0068] As Figure 1 shown, the pressure spring 25 is housed in the spring housing portion 84. The pressure spring 25 biases the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center portion 40 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The pressure spring 25 is, for example, a helical spring formed by winding spring steel into a spiral shape.

[0069] As Figure 1 shown, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is provided in the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is provided at a position on the first direction D1 side with respect to the clutch center portion 40. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located radially outside the oil groove 42P. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the extension line 42PL of the oil groove 42P (also refer to Figure 2 ). The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is held by the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is provided so as to be able to rotate integrally with the clutch housing 30. As Figure 11 and Figure 12 shown, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 includes a weight member 122, a holding member 124, a crimping member 126, a support member 128, a first spherical member 131, a second spherical member 132, and a biasing member 135 (refer to Figure 1). When the counterweight member 122 is at a radially outer position, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 presses the input-side rotating plate 20 against the output-side rotating plate 22 to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft 15. When the counterweight member 122 is at a radially inner position, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 releases the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 to be in a state where the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15 can be cut off. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is configured to be able to press the auxiliary clutch plate 150 (refer to Figure 13 ). The following disk portion 154 (refer to Figure 13 ).

[0070] The counterweight member 122 is configured to be able to move from a position on the radially inner side to a position on the outer side by the centrifugal force accompanying the rotation of the clutch housing 30. As Figure 11 shown, the counterweight member 122 is housed in a housing portion 124A of the holding member 124 described later. The counterweight member 122 is held at a position on the radially inner side in a state where no centrifugal force is applied. The counterweight member 122 moves toward the radially outer side by overcoming the acting force of the biasing member 135 (refer to Figure 1 ) due to the application of centrifugal force and moves to a position on the radially outer side.

[0071] As Figure 11 shown, the holding member 124 holds the counterweight member 122 so that it can move between a position on the radially inner side and a position on the radially outer side. The holding member 124 is formed in an annular shape. The holding member 124 has a plurality of housing portions 124A formed in the circumferential direction, inclined grooves 124B formed in the housing portions 124A, and a pressing surface 124C. The housing portion 124A houses the counterweight member 122. The housing portion 124A is formed in a concave shape that conforms to the shape and movement range of the counterweight member 122. One end of the biasing member 135 (refer to Figure 1 ) can abut against the outer peripheral wall surface 124AA of the housing portion 124A.

[0072] As Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the crimping member 126 is configured to move in the second direction D2 by moving from a position on the inner side in the radial direction to a position on the outer side by the weight member 122, and can crimp the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. The crimping member 126 is formed in an annular shape. The crimping member 126 has a plurality of inclined grooves 126A formed in the circumferential direction, grooves 126B respectively formed at positions where the inclined grooves 126A are formed, and a pressing surface 126C. The inclined grooves 126A are respectively formed at positions corresponding to the weight member 122. The inclined grooves 126A are inclined in the first direction D1 from the inner side in the radial direction toward the outer side in the radial direction. In a state where the clutch housing 30 is stopped, the weight member 122 is held on the inner side in the radial direction by the biasing member 135 (refer to Figure 1 ). In a state where the clutch housing 30 rotates and a centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 moves along the inclined groove 126A, whereby the crimping member 126 moves in a direction separating from the holding member 124 (i.e., the second direction D2). Thereby, the pressing surface 126C of the crimping member 126 presses the flange 68 of the second clutch center portion 51 in the second direction D2 (refer to Figure 1 ). Further, the holding member 124 and the crimping member 126 have a plurality of protrusions 127 formed in the circumferential direction. The holding member 124 and the crimping member 126 are held on the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30 via the protrusions 127 in the same manner as the input-side rotating plate 20. The holding member 124 and the crimping member 126 are held on the clutch housing 30 by fitting. The holding member 124 and the crimping member 126 are provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction (i.e., the direction D) of the clutch housing 30. The holding member 124 and the crimping member 126 are provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0073] As Figure 11 and Figure 12 shown, the support member 128 is mounted on the holding member 124. The support member 128 is fixed to the surface on the second direction D2 side in the holding member 124. The support member 128 holds the weight member 122 so as to be movable in the radial direction. As Figure 2 shown, a friction material 175 is provided between the support member 128 and the clutch center portion 40 (here, the first clutch center portion 41). The friction material 175 is an example of other friction materials.

[0074] As Figure 11 and Figure 12As shown, the first spherical member 131 is mounted on the weight member 122. The first spherical member 131 is, for example, a steel ball. A part of the first spherical member 131 protrudes from one opening of the through hole formed in the weight member 122 and contacts the inclined groove 126A of the crimping member 126. The second spherical member 132 is mounted on the weight member 122. The second spherical member 132 is, for example, a steel ball. A part of the second spherical member 132 protrudes from the other opening of the through hole formed in the weight member 122 and contacts the inclined groove 124B of the holding member 124.

[0075] As Figure 1 shown, the biasing member 135 is disposed on the outer side in the radial direction of the weight member 122. The biasing member 135 biases the weight member 122 toward the inner side in the radial direction. The biasing member 135 is, for example, a coil spring.

[0076] In such a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, when no centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 is held at a position on the inner side in the radial direction, and the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is released. On the other hand, when centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 moves from the position on the inner side in the radial direction to the position on the outer side. As a result, the pressing surface 126C formed on the crimping member 126 presses the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 via the flange 68 of the second clutch center portion 51 to be in a crimped state, and the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft 15. At this time, the holding member 124 moves in the first direction D1, and the pressing surface 124C formed on the holding member 124 presses the auxiliary clutch plate 150.

[0077] As Figure 1 shown, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is provided in the clutch housing 30. The auxiliary clutch plate 150 is fixed to the output shaft 15. The auxiliary clutch plate 150 is disposed at a position on the first direction D1 side with respect to a part of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. As Figure 2 shown, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is adjacent to the end surface 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 of the first clutch center portion 41. At least a part of the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is in surface contact with at least a part of the end surface 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42. In addition, a member such as a gasket may be provided between the auxiliary clutch plate 150 and the end surface 42D1.

[0078] The auxiliary clutch plate 150 is configured to be pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 (here, the pressing surface 124C of the holding member 124) when the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 are in pressure contact (that is, when the weight member 122 of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located at a position radially outside), and thus is in a state capable of transmitting the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15. The auxiliary clutch plate 150 is configured such that when the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is released (that is, when the weight member 122 is located at a position radially inside), the pressing by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 (here, the pressing surface 124C of the holding member 124) is released, and the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15 is cut off. As Figure 13 shown, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 has a fitting portion 152 and a disk portion 154. The fitting portion 152 and the disk portion 154 are formed integrally.

[0079] As Figure 1 shown, the fitting portion 152 is fitted to the output shaft 15. An insertion hole 152H for spline fitting is formed in the fitting portion 152 by inserting the output shaft 15 (also refer to Figure 13 ). The insertion hole 152H is formed through the fitting portion 152. The length L1 of the fitting portion 152 in the direction D (that is, the axial direction of the output shaft 15) is longer than the length L2 of the disk portion 154 in the direction D.

[0080] As Figure 1 shown, the disk portion 154 is located at a position radially outside the fitting portion 152. The disk portion 154 is the end face on the second direction D2 side and has a contact surface 154F that is pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. As Figure 2 shown, the contact surface 154F is pressed by the pressing surface 124C of the holding member 124 of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. A friction material 170 is provided between the contact surface 154F and the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 (also refer to Figure 14 ). That is, the contact surface 154F is indirectly pressed by the pressing surface 124C via the friction material 170. The disk portion 154 is located at a position on the second direction D2 side of the center 152C of the fitting portion 152 in the direction D.

[0081] As Figure 1 shown, the stopper plate 100 is provided so as to be able to contact the pressure plate 70. The stopper plate 100 is a member that inhibits the pressure plate 70 from separating from the clutch center portion 40 toward the second direction D2 by more than a specified distance. The stopper plate 100 is fixed to the boss portion 62 of the first clutch center portion 41 by bolts 28. The pressure plate 70 is installed by fastening the bolts 28 to the boss portion 62 via the stopper plate 100 in a state where the pressure spring 25 is disposed in the spring housing portion 84. The stopper plate 100 is formed in a substantially triangular shape when viewed from above.

[0082] A prescribed amount of clutch oil is supplied into the clutch device 10. The clutch oil suppresses heat absorption and wear of the friction material. The clutch device 10 of the present embodiment is a so-called wet multi-plate friction clutch device. The clutch oil flows into the clutch center portion 40 and the pressure plate 70 through the oil flow path 15H of the output shaft 15 and is supplied to the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. In addition, as shown by the arrow FL in Figure 2 , the clutch oil flowing in the oil flow path 15H flows toward the oil groove 42P through the communication hole 15B. Here, a stepped portion 48 is formed on the entire circumference of the output shaft holding portion 42 at the end portion on the first direction D1 side of the output shaft holding portion 42 (see also Figure 4 ). Therefore, the clutch oil more reliably flows toward the oil groove 42P through the stepped portion 48. In addition, the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is in surface contact with the auxiliary clutch plate 150. However, since the oil groove 42P is formed in the end face 42D1, the clutch oil flowing out from the communication hole 15B flows radially outward of the first clutch center portion 41 through the oil groove 42P. The clutch oil flowing radially outward of the first clutch center portion 41 is supplied, for example, to the friction material 170 provided between the abutting surface 154F of the auxiliary clutch plate 150 and the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, the friction material 175 provided between the support member 128 and the first clutch center portion 41, the weight member 122 of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, the input-side rotating plate 20, the output-side rotating plate 22, and the like.

[0083] As described above, according to the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the oil groove 42P formed in the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 communicates with the insertion hole 45 and extends in the radial direction of the output shaft 15 and from the insertion hole 45 to the radial outer edge 42DO of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1. Therefore, for example, even if a component such as a gasket is disposed on the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 through the oil groove 42P can be supplied from the radial outer edge 42DO of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 to the outside (for example, the input-side rotating plate 20, the output-side rotating plate 22).

[0084] The clutch device 10 of the present embodiment includes a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 has a weight member 122 configured to be movable from a position on the inner side in the radial direction to a position on the outer side by centrifugal force accompanying the rotation of the clutch housing 30. When the weight member 122 is in the outer position, the input-side rotating plate 20 is pressed against the output-side rotating plate 22 to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft 15. When the weight member 122 is in the inner position, the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is released to cut off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located radially outside the oil sump 42P and on the extension line 42PL of the oil sump 42P. According to the above manner, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 can be supplied to the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 via the oil sump 42P.

[0085] The clutch device 10 of the present embodiment includes an auxiliary clutch plate 150 configured to be pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 when the input-side rotating plate 20 is pressed against the output-side rotating plate 22 to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft 15, and to be released from the pressing by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 when the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 is released to cut off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15. The auxiliary clutch plate 150 is fixed to the output shaft 15 and adjacent to the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42. At least a part of the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is in surface contact with at least a part of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42. According to the above manner, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is adjacent to the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42, and at least a part of the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is in surface contact with at least a part of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42, but the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 via the oil sump 42P can be supplied to the outside from the radial outer edge of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42.

[0086] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 has a fitting portion 152 fitted to the output shaft 15 and a disk portion 154 located radially outside the fitting portion 152. The length L1 in the direction D1 of the fitting portion 152 is longer than the length L2 in the direction D1 of the disk portion 154. According to the above manner, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is more reliably fitted to the output shaft 15, and the auxiliary clutch plate 150 can be arranged compactly.

[0087] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is configured to be able to press the disk portion 154, and the disk portion 154 is located on the second direction D2 side with respect to the center 152C in the axial direction of the fitting portion 152. According to the above manner, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 can be miniaturized.

[0088] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the disk portion 154 has an abutting surface 154F that is an end surface on the second direction D2 side and is pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. According to the above manner, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 can press the entire auxiliary clutch plate 150 by pressing the abutting surface 154F.

[0089] The clutch device 10 of the present embodiment includes a friction material 170 provided between the abutting surface 154F and the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. According to the above manner, the rotational driving force is more reliably transmitted to the auxiliary clutch plate 150 via the friction material 170 by the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120. In addition, since the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 can be supplied to the friction material 170, the wear of the friction material 170 can be suppressed.

[0090] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, a plurality of fitting teeth 47 that extend in the axial direction of the output shaft 15 and are fitted to the output shaft 15 are formed on the inner wall 45A of the dividing insertion hole 45 in the output shaft holding portion 42. At least a part of the end surface 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is located on the first direction D1 side with respect to the end surface 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the fitting teeth 47, and a stepped portion 48 is formed between the end surface 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 and the end surface 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the fitting teeth 47. According to the above manner, the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 flows to the oil groove 42P after being temporarily held by the stepped portion 48, so that more clutch oil can flow out from the oil groove 42P to the outside.

[0091] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the stepped portion 48 is formed on the entire circumference of the output shaft holding portion 42. According to the above manner, even if the positions (phases) of the communication hole 15B of the output shaft 15 and the oil groove 42P in the circumferential direction are shifted, the clutch oil flowing in the oil flow path 15H of the output shaft 15 can be reliably supplied to the oil groove 42P.

[0092] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 has a support member 128 that holds the weight member 122 so as to be movable in the radial direction, and includes a friction material 175 provided between the support member 128 and the clutch center portion 40. According to the above manner, the clutch oil can be supplied to the friction material 175, and the seizure of the friction material 175 can be suppressed.

[0093] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is fixed to the output shaft 15 and is adjacent to the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42. According to the above manner, the auxiliary clutch plate 150 is adjacent to the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42, but can supply the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft 15 via the oil groove 42P to the outside from the outer edge 42DO in the radial direction of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42.

[0094] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the entire end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is located on the first direction side D1 relative to the end face 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the engaging teeth 47. According to the above manner, a stepped portion 48 is formed on the entire circumference of the insertion hole 45, so that more clutch oil can be held in the stepped portion 48.

[0095] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, when viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the diameter R1 of the portion in the insertion hole 45 divided by the inner edge 42I of the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 is larger than the diameter R2 of the portion in the insertion hole 45 divided by the inner edge 47I on the radial inner side of the engaging teeth 47. According to the above manner, the radial length of the stepped portion 48 can be sufficiently ensured, so that more clutch oil can be held in the stepped portion 48.

[0096] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, the output shaft 15 includes: a main body portion 15A that extends in the direction D and forms an oil flow path 15H for the clutch oil to flow through; and a communication hole 15B that is formed in the main body portion 15A, extends in the radial direction, and communicates with the oil flow path 15H. According to the above manner, the clutch oil flowing in the oil flow path 15H of the main body portion 15A flows through the communication hole 15B to the oil groove 42P.

[0097] In the clutch device 10 of the present embodiment, at least a part of the communication hole 15B is located between the end face 42D1 in the first direction D1 of the output shaft holding portion 42 and the end face 47D1 in the first direction D1 of the engaging teeth 47 in the direction D (i.e., the axial direction of the output shaft 15). According to the above manner, more of the clutch oil flowing in the oil flow path 15H of the main body portion 15A can flow to the stepped portion 48.

[0098] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the above embodiments are merely illustrative, and the present invention can be implemented in various other ways.

[0099] In the above-described embodiment, the clutch center portion 40 includes a first clutch center portion 41 and a second clutch center portion 51, and the first clutch center portion 41 and the second clutch center portion 51 are assembled and used, but the first clutch center portion 41 and the second clutch center portion 51 may also be integrated.

[0100] In the above-described embodiment, the clutch oil does not flow along the axial direction of the output shaft 15 in the insertion hole 45, but it may flow.

[0101] In the above-described embodiment, the clutch center portion 40 includes a center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center-side sliding cam surface 60S, but the clutch center portion 40 may not include the center-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the center-side sliding cam surface 60S. Further, the pressure plate 70 includes a pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and a pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S, but the pressure plate 70 may not include the pressure-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure-side sliding cam surface 90S.

[0102] In the above-described embodiment, an engine is used as the power source, but the power source is not limited to an engine, and for example, it may also be an electric motor or the like.

[0103] The straddle-type vehicle of the present embodiment refers to a vehicle in which a driver rides astride. The straddle-type vehicle is not limited to two-wheeled motor vehicles such as step-type vehicles. The straddle-type vehicle may also be, for example, a three-wheeled motor vehicle, an ATV (All Terrain Vehicle), a snowmobile, or the like.

[0104] Mark Description

[0105] 10 Clutch device;

[0106] 15 Output shaft;

[0107] 15A Main body portion;

[0108] 15B Communication hole;

[0109] 15H Oil flow path;

[0110] 20 Input-side rotating plate;

[0111] 22 Output-side rotating plate;

[0112] 30 Clutch housing;

[0113] 40 Clutch center portion;

[0114] 41 First clutch center portion;

[0115] 42 Output shaft holding portion;

[0116] 42D1 End face in the first direction;

[0117] 42P oil sump;

[0118] 42PL extension cord;

[0119] 42DO outer edge;

[0120] 42I inner edge;

[0121] 45 insertion hole;

[0122] 45A inner wall;

[0123] 47 engaging teeth;

[0124] 47D1 end face in the first direction;

[0125] 47I edge portion on the inner diameter side;

[0126] 48 step portion;

[0127] 70 pressure plate;

[0128] 120 centrifugal clutch mechanism;

[0129] 122 counterweight component;

[0130] 128 support component;

[0131] 150 auxiliary clutch plate;

[0132] 152 engaging portion;

[0133] 154 disc portion;

[0134] 154F abutting surface;

[0135] 170 friction material;

[0136] 175 friction material (other friction material).

Claims

1. A clutch device that transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft, wherein, The clutch device includes: a clutch center portion that is housed 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 that holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and that is rotationally driven together with the output shaft; and a pressure plate that is arranged to be able to approach or separate from the clutch center portion and to be able to rotate relative to the clutch center portion, and that can press the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates, the clutch center portion includes an output shaft holding portion that connects the output shaft, the output shaft holding portion includes an insertion hole into which the output shaft is inserted, When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center portion is defined as the first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate separates from the clutch center portion is defined as the second direction, an oil groove is formed in the end face of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction. The oil groove communicates with the insertion hole, extends in the radial direction of the output shaft, extends from the insertion hole to the outer edge in the radial direction of the end face in the first direction, and allows the clutch oil flowing out from the output shaft to flow.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein the clutch device includes a centrifugal clutch mechanism that has a weight member that is configured to be able to move from a position on the inner side in the radial direction to a position on the outer side by centrifugal force accompanying the rotation of the clutch housing, and when the weight member is in the position on the outer side in the radial direction, the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate are pressed into contact with each other so as to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft, and when the weight member is in the position on the inner side, the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate is released so as to be able to cut off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the outer side in the radial direction of the oil groove and on the extension line of the oil groove.

3. The clutch device according to claim 2, wherein the clutch device includes an auxiliary clutch plate that is configured to be pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism when the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate are pressed into contact with each other so as to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft, and when the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate is released, the pressing by the centrifugal clutch mechanism is released so as to cut off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, the auxiliary clutch plate is fixed to the output shaft and is adjacent to the end face of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction, at least a part of the auxiliary clutch plate is in surface contact with at least a part of the end face of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction.

4. The clutch device according to claim 3, wherein the auxiliary clutch plate has: a fitting portion that fits with the output shaft; and a disk portion that is located on the outer side in the radial direction relative to the fitting portion, the length of the fitting portion of the output shaft in the axial direction is longer than the length of the disk portion in the axial direction.

5. The clutch device according to claim 4, wherein, the centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured to be able to press the disc portion, the disc portion is located on the second direction side with respect to the center in the axial direction of the fitting portion.

6. The clutch device according to claim 5, wherein, the disc portion has a contact surface, the contact surface is an end surface on the second direction side and is pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism.

7. The clutch device according to claim 6, wherein, the clutch device includes a friction material provided between the contact surface and the centrifugal clutch mechanism.

8. The clutch device according to claim 2, wherein, a plurality of fitting teeth extending in the axial direction of the output shaft and fitting with the output shaft are formed on the inner wall of the output shaft holding portion that divides the insertion hole, at least a part of the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction is located on the first direction side with respect to the end surface of the fitting teeth in the first direction, a stepped portion is formed between the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction and the end surface of the fitting teeth in the first direction.

9. The clutch device according to claim 8, wherein, the stepped portion is formed over the entire circumference of the output shaft holding portion.

10. The clutch device according to claim 2, wherein, the centrifugal clutch mechanism has a support member that holds the weight member so as to be movable in the radial direction, the clutch device includes another friction material provided between the support member and the clutch center portion.

11. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, the clutch device includes an auxiliary clutch plate, the auxiliary clutch plate is configured to be pressed by the centrifugal clutch mechanism when the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate are pressed together to be in a state where the rotational driving force of the input shaft can be transmitted to the output shaft, and to be released from the pressing by the centrifugal clutch mechanism when the pressing force between the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate is released to cut off the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft, the auxiliary clutch plate is fixed to the output shaft and is adjacent to the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction.

12. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, a plurality of fitting teeth extending in the axial direction of the output shaft and fitting with the output shaft are formed on the inner wall of the output shaft holding portion that divides the insertion hole, at least a part of the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction is located on the first direction side with respect to the end surface of the fitting teeth in the first direction, a stepped portion is formed between the end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction and the end surface of the fitting teeth in the first direction.

13. The clutch device according to claim 12, wherein, the entire end surface of the output shaft holding portion in the first direction is located on the first direction side with respect to the end surface of the fitting teeth in the first direction.

14. The clutch device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, When viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft, the diameter of the portion of the insertion hole delimited by the inner edge of the end face in the first direction of the output shaft holding portion is larger than the diameter of the portion of the insertion hole delimited by the radially inner edge portion of the engaging teeth.

15. The clutch device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The stepped portion is formed on the entire circumference of the output shaft holding portion.

16. The clutch device according to claim 12 or 13, wherein, The clutch device includes the output shaft, The output shaft includes: A main body portion extending in the axial direction and forming an oil flow path for clutch oil to flow through; and A communication hole formed in the main body portion, extending in the radial direction, and communicating with the oil flow path.

17. The clutch device according to claim 16, wherein, At least a part of the communication hole is located in the axial direction of the output shaft between the end face in the first direction of the output shaft holding portion and the end face in the first direction of the engaging teeth.

Images