Ratchet-type clutch device and vehicle drive device

Abstract

The invention relates to a ratchet type clutch device and a driving device for a vehicle. Tooth parts and grooves are alternately formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring of the ratchet-type clutch device. The inner ring has an inner ring body and a shutter. A plurality of restricting teeth are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the shutter. When viewed from the axial direction, a state in which the restricting tooth portion is offset in the first rotational direction with respect to the tooth portion and the restricting tooth portion overlaps a part of the groove is set as a closed state of the shutter, and when viewed from the axial direction, a state in which all of the restricting tooth portion overlaps the tooth portion is set as an open state of the shutter. The elastic member urges the shutter so as to change from an open state to a closed state. Each of the first claw members is formed so as to be able to enter the groove in a closed state, each of the second claw members is formed so as to be able to enter the groove in an open state, and the center of gravity is disposed closer to the tip than the center of rotation of the corresponding second claw member.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to ratchet-type clutch devices and drive systems for vehicles. Background Technology

[0002] The ratchet-type clutch device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-118250 includes a first pawl member and a second pawl member. When the inner ring rotates relative to the outer ring in one direction, the first pawl member engages with the teeth. Furthermore, when the inner ring rotates relative to the outer ring in the opposite direction, the second pawl member engages with the teeth. Hereinafter, the state in which only the first pawl member can engage with the teeth is referred to as the one-way clutch mode. The state in which both the first and second pawl members can engage with the teeth is referred to as the locking mode.

[0003] In the ratchet-type clutch device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-118250, an actuator and a cam member are provided for switching from a locked mode to a one-way clutch mode. The cam member moves axially via the actuator. The cam member lifts the pawl member to disengage from the teeth. When the axial movement achieved by the cam member is small, the cam member only lifts the second pawl member to switch from the locked mode to the one-way clutch mode. Furthermore, when the movement of the cam member is large, the cam member lifts both the first and second pawl members.

[0004] However, the ratchet-type clutch device disclosed in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-118250 is large in size due to its actuator and cam component. Therefore, a ratchet-type clutch device that is miniaturized and can switch from a locking mode to a one-way clutch mode is desired. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This disclosure was made in view of the aforementioned technical problems, and its object is to provide a ratchet-type clutch device that is miniaturized and can switch from a locking mode to a one-way clutch mode. At the same time, a vehicle drive unit equipped with a ratchet-type clutch device is also provided.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, one embodiment of the ratchet-type clutch device disclosed herein has an outer ring and an inner ring capable of relative rotation. Teeth and grooves are alternately formed circumferentially on the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring. The outer ring has a plurality of first pawl members and a plurality of second pawl members. The first pawl members engage with the teeth from a first rotational direction by entering the grooves. The second pawl members engage with the teeth from a second rotational direction by entering the grooves. The inner ring has an inner ring body, a gate, and an elastic member. The teeth and grooves are formed on the inner ring body. The gate is coaxially arranged with the inner ring body and is capable of relative rotation relative to the inner ring body. The elastic member applies a force to the gate in the rotational direction. A plurality of limiting teeth are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the gate at intervals equal to the teeth. The direction parallel to the rotational axis of the outer ring is defined as the axial direction. The closed state of the gate is defined as the state in which the limiting teeth are offset relative to the teeth in the first rotational direction when viewed from the axial direction and the limiting teeth overlap a portion of the groove. The open state of the gate is defined as the state in which all the limiting teeth overlap when viewed from the axial direction. The elastic member applies force to the gate in a manner that changes it from the open state to the closed state. Each of the first claw members is configured to enter the slot in the closed state. Each of the second claw members is configured to enter the slot in the open state, and its center of gravity is located at a position closer to the top end than the rotation center of the corresponding second claw member. When a centrifugal force of a predetermined value or more is applied, each of the second claw members disengages from the slot. Attached Figure Description

[0007] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device of Embodiment 1 when viewed from a first direction.

[0008] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the inner ring of Embodiment 1 cut along the axial direction; more specifically... Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along line II-II.

[0009] Figure 3 It is Figure 1 An enlarged view of a set of first and second claw components.

[0010] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device of Embodiment 1 when viewed from a first direction.

[0011] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device of Embodiment 1 when viewed from a first direction.

[0012] Figure 6 yes Figure 5A cross-sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the inner ring relative to the outer ring in the second rotation direction in Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the inner ring begins to rotate relative to the outer ring in the first rotation direction in Embodiment 1.

[0015] Figure 9 It means from Figure 8 A schematic diagram showing the state in which the inner ring rotates relative to the outer ring further in the first rotation direction, starting from the initial state.

[0016] Figure 10 It means from Figure 9 A schematic diagram showing the state in which the rotational speeds of the inner and outer rings increase from the initial state.

[0017] Figure 11 It means from Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the outer ring begins to rotate relative to the inner ring in the first rotation direction, starting from the initial state.

[0018] Figure 12 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive unit according to Embodiment 1.

[0019] Figure 13 This is a timeline diagram showing the vehicle drive system of Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the drive unit for a vehicle in Modified Example 1.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive system in Modified Example 2.

[0022] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive system in Modified Example 3.

[0023] Figure 17 This is an enlarged view of the first claw component and its vicinity in the ratchet-type clutch device of Modified Example 4.

[0024] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the state of the short first claw member entering the groove in variation example 4.

[0025] Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the state in which the long first claw member abuts against the inclined plane in variation example 4. Detailed Implementation

[0026] The embodiments for carrying out this disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. This disclosure is not limited to the contents described below. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below include substantially the same elements readily conceived by those skilled in the art. Moreover, the constituent elements described below can be appropriately combined.

[0027] (Implementation Method 1)

[0028] First, the ratchet-type clutch device 100 will be described, and then the vehicle drive unit 200 equipped with the ratchet-type clutch device 100 will be described.

[0029] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 of Embodiment 1 when viewed from the first direction X1. Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of the inner ring 2 of embodiment 1 when cut along the axial direction. More specifically, Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along line II-II. Furthermore, in Figure 1 In order to facilitate observation of the inner ring main body 3, the diagram shows the state in which the gate 50, elastic member 60 and housing 70, which are arranged relative to the inner ring main body 3 in the first direction X1, are removed.

[0030] like Figure 1 As shown, the ratchet-type clutch device 100 has: an annular outer ring 1; and an inner ring 2 disposed inside the outer ring 1. The outer ring 1 and the inner ring 2 are arranged coaxially. Furthermore, the outer ring 1 and the inner ring 2 are configured to rotate relative to each other about a central axis X. Hereinafter, the direction parallel to the central axis X will be referred to as the axial direction. The direction orthogonal to the central axis X will be referred to as the radial direction.

[0031] like Figure 2 As shown, the inner ring 2 includes an inner ring body 3, a gate 50, an elastic member 60, and a housing 70. Hereinafter, in the axial direction, the direction in which the gate 50 is arranged, viewed from the inner ring body 3, is designated as the first direction X1, and the opposite direction is designated as the second direction X2.

[0032] The inner ring body 3 has a side surface 3a facing the first direction X1. A shaft portion 3b protruding in the first direction X1 is formed on the side surface 3a. Figure 1 As shown, the shaft portion 3b is formed in a cylindrical shape with the central axis X as the center. Therefore, the outer peripheral surface 3c of the shaft portion 3b is circular. In addition, a fixing hole 3d is formed on the side surface 3a. It should be noted that in Embodiment 1, the inner ring body 3 and the shaft portion 3b are integrally formed, but in this disclosure, the structure can also be formed by fitting a rod-shaped shaft portion 3b into an annular inner ring body 3.

[0033] like Figure 1As shown, teeth 4 and grooves 5 are alternately formed circumferentially on the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring body 3. The circumferential length of the teeth 4 is W1. The grooves 5 are spaces formed between the teeth 4 and open radially outward. Furthermore, the circumferential width of the grooves 5 is W2.

[0034] Each tooth 4 has: one side 6 facing circumferentially; and another side 7 facing circumferentially. Hereinafter, regarding the direction of rotation (circumferential) centered on the central axis X, the direction facing one side 6 will be referred to as the first rotation direction L1, and the direction facing the other side 7 will be referred to as the second rotation direction L2. It should be noted that the descriptions of the gate 50, the elastic member 60, and the housing 70 will be provided later.

[0035] The outer ring 1 has: an annular outer ring body 10; an annular retainer 11 disposed on the inner circumferential side of the outer ring body 10; a plurality of first claw members 30; and a plurality of second claw members 40.

[0036] The inner circumferential surface of the outer ring body 10 is circular about the central axis X. A fitting portion 12 that is recessed radially outward is formed on the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring body 10. The retainer 11 has: a retainer body 13 that extends along the inner circumferential surface of the outer ring body 10; and a fitting portion 14 that fits into the fitting portion 12 of the outer ring body 10.

[0037] Figure 3 It is Figure 1 An enlarged view of a set of first claw components 30 and second claw components 40. (See enlarged view for example.) Figure 3 As shown, an opening 15 is formed between the retainer body 13 and the fitting portion 14 for disposing a portion of the first claw member 30 or the second claw member 40 radially inward on the retainer 11. Furthermore, a shaft receiving portion 16 is formed between the outer ring body 10 and the retainer 11, adjacent to the opening 15. Moreover, in the shaft receiving portion 16, an extended receiving portion 17 is formed in the first rotational direction L1 of the shaft receiving portion 16 for receiving the first claw member 30.

[0038] The first claw member 30 has: a first shaft portion 31, which is received in the shaft portion receiving portion 16; a first claw portion 32, which protrudes from the first shaft portion 31; and a torque transmission portion 33, which is disposed in the extended receiving portion 17.

[0039] The first shaft portion 31 is held by the outer ring body 10 and the retainer 11, and can rotate freely around the rotation center O31. The first claw portion 32 passes through the opening portion 15 and is disposed on the inner circumference of the retainer 11.

[0040] The first claw portion 32 has an inner surface 32a facing radially inward. A protruding point 32b that protrudes radially inward is formed on the inner surface 32a. Furthermore, the inner surface 32a is inclined in a manner that it is located radially inward as it approaches the protruding point 32b. The length from the top surface 32c of the first claw portion 32 to the protruding point 32b is H1. Hereinafter, the portion of the first claw portion 32 with a length of H1 or less from the top surface 32c is referred to as the first top surface portion 32d.

[0041] The length H1 of the first tip portion 32d is smaller than the width W2 of the groove 5. Therefore, the first tip portion 32d of the first claw portion 32 can enter the groove 5 and contact one side 6 of the tooth portion 4. That is to say, the first claw member 30 is a claw member that engages with the tooth portion 4 from the first rotation direction L1.

[0042] The torque transmission section 33 faces the opposing surface 17a of the extended receiving section 17. When the first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30 contacts the tooth portion 4, the torque transmission section 33 presses against the opposing surface 17a, thereby transmitting torque to the outer ring body 10.

[0043] In this embodiment, the center of gravity G30 of the first claw member 30 is located at the torque transmission section 33. Therefore, when centrifugal force is applied to the first claw member 30, the torque transmission section 33 moves radially outward (see reference). Figure 3 (Arrow A1). Therefore, the first claw 32 moves radially inward (refer to...). Figure 3 (Arrow A2). As a result, the contact area between the first claw portion 32 and the tooth portion 4 increases, and the meshing between the first claw portion 32 and the tooth portion 4 becomes more stable. It should be noted that in Embodiment 1, the center of gravity G30 of the first claw member 30 is disposed on the torque transmission portion 33, but the center of gravity G30 of this disclosure can also be disposed on the first shaft portion 31.

[0044] like Figure 3 As shown, the second claw member 40 has: a second shaft portion 41, which is received in the shaft portion receiving portion 16; and a second claw portion 42, which protrudes from the second shaft portion 41.

[0045] The second shaft portion 41 is held by the outer ring body 10 and the retainer 11, and can rotate freely around the rotation center O41. The second claw portion 42 passes through the opening portion 15 and is disposed on the inner circumference of the retainer 11.

[0046] The second claw portion 42 has an inner surface 42a facing radially inward. A protruding point 42b that protrudes radially inward is formed on the inner surface 42a. Furthermore, the inner surface 42a is inclined in a manner that it is located radially inward as it approaches the protruding point 42b. The length from the top surface 42c of the second claw portion 42 to the protruding point 42b is H2. Hereinafter, the portion of the second claw portion 42 with a length of H2 or less from the top surface 42c is referred to as the second top surface portion 42d.

[0047] The length H2 of the second tip portion 42d is smaller than the width W2 of the groove 5. Therefore, the second tip portion 42d of the second claw portion 42 can enter the groove 5 and contact the other side 7 of the tooth portion 4. That is to say, the second claw member 40 is a claw member that engages with the tooth portion 4 from the second rotation direction L2. In addition, the length H2 of the second tip portion 42d is greater than the length H1 of the first tip portion 32d (H2 > H1).

[0048] The fitting portion 14 is provided with a first spring 35 and a second spring 45 that apply a force radially inward to the first claw portion 32 and the second claw portion 42. Furthermore, the center of gravity G40 of the second claw member 40 is located at the second claw portion 42. That is, the center of gravity G40 of the second claw member 40 is closer to the top surface 42c than the rotation center O41 of the second claw member 40. Therefore, when the outer ring 1 rotates and a centrifugal force of a predetermined value or higher acts on the second claw member 40, the second claw portion 42 will move radially outward against the second spring 45.

[0049] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 of Embodiment 1 as viewed from the first direction X1. It should be noted that... Figure 4 In the illustration, to facilitate observation of the gate 50, the elastic member 60 and the housing 70 are shown removed. Furthermore, regarding... Figure 4 The 50 marking on the gate valve will be slightly different from the previous ones.

[0050] The gate 50 is an annular component centered on the central axis X. The inner circumferential surface 51 of the gate 50 is circular. The inner circumferential surface 51 of the gate 50 can slidably fit into the outer circumferential surface 3c of the shaft portion 3b. Therefore, the gate 50 can rotate relative to the inner ring body 3.

[0051] Restricting teeth 52 and restricting grooves 53 are alternately formed circumferentially on the outer peripheral surface of the gate 50. The restricting teeth 52 are arranged circumferentially at intervals equal to those of the teeth 4. The circumferential length W3 of the restricting teeth 52 is equal to the length W1 of the teeth 4 (see reference). Figure 1 The limiting groove 53 is a space formed between the limiting teeth 52, opening radially outward. The circumferential width W4 of the limiting groove 53 is equal to the width W2 of the groove 5 (see reference). Figure 1 ).

[0052] It should be noted that in this embodiment, the length W3 of the limiting tooth 52 is equal to the length W1 of the tooth 4, and the width W4 of the limiting groove 53 is the same as the width W2 of the groove 5, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. For example, the length W3 of the limiting tooth 52 may be smaller than the length W1 of the tooth 4, and the width W4 of the limiting groove 53 may be larger than the width W2 of the groove 5.

[0053] A circular arc-shaped hole 55 extending axially is formed in the gate plate 50. Hereinafter, in the inner circumferential surface of the circular arc hole 55, the surface located at the end in the first rotation direction L1 is referred to as the locking surface 56, and the surface located at the end in the second rotation direction L2 is referred to as the positioning surface 57.

[0054] Figure 5 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 of Embodiment 1 as viewed from the first direction X1. The housing 70 is an annular component. The inner circumferential surface 71 of the housing 70 is formed in a circular shape. The inner circumferential surface 71 of the housing 70 fits into the shaft portion 3b of the inner ring body 3. Figure 2 As shown, a receiving groove 72 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the housing 70, which is recessed radially inward and extends circumferentially.

[0055] The elastic member 60 has a C-shaped main body 61 and a rotation limiting part 62 (see reference). Figure 6 ) and the carding part 63 (refer to Figure 6 ).like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 61 is accommodated in the receiving groove 72 of the housing 70. Therefore, the elastic member 60 is supported on the housing 70 in a manner that prevents it from falling off along the first direction X1. Furthermore, the main body 61 is separated from the bottom surface 73 of the receiving groove 72. Therefore, the main body 61 is supported in a deformable (reduced diameter) manner.

[0056] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 A cross-sectional view along line VI-VI. (See attached image.) Figure 6 As shown, the rotation limiting part 62 extends from the end of the main body part 61 in the first rotational direction L1 toward the second direction X2. Furthermore, the rotation limiting part 62 passes through the arcuate hole 55 and is inserted into the fixing hole 3d of the inner ring main body 3. Therefore, the rotation limiting part 62 is fixed to the inner ring main body 3.

[0057] The locking part 63 extends from the end of the main body 61 in the second rotational direction L2 toward the second direction X2. Furthermore, the locking part 63 is inserted into the arcuate hole 55 of the gate 50. The locking part 63 is positioned at the end of the arcuate hole 55 in the first rotational direction L1 and abuts against the locking surface 56 of the arcuate hole 55.

[0058] Furthermore, the elastic member 60 is installed on the inner ring body 3 and the gate 50 with the main body 61 in a reduced diameter state. That is, the distance W10 between the rotation limiting part 62 and the locking part 63 (refer to...) Figure 6 The size is larger before installation than after installation. Therefore, the locking part 63 always presses the locking surface 56 towards the first rotation direction L1 (see reference). Figure 6 (Arrow A3). Therefore, the gate 50 is subjected to force in a manner that rotates in the first rotation direction L1 (see arrow A3). Figure 6 Arrow A4), positioning surface 57 abuts against rotation restriction part 62.

[0059] like Figure 5 As shown, when the positioning surface 57 abuts against the rotation limiting part 62, the phase of the gate 50 is such that the limiting tooth 52 is offset relative to the tooth 4 in the first rotation direction L1. That is, when viewed from the axial direction, the limiting tooth 52 overlaps with a portion of the groove 5. In this state, the size of the claw member that can enter the groove 5 is limited to W5. Hereinafter, the state in which the positioning surface 57 abuts against the rotation limiting part 62 (the limiting tooth 52 overlaps with a portion of the groove 5) is referred to as the closed state of the gate 50 (or simply as the "closed state").

[0060] Furthermore, the gate 50 in the closed state can rotate relative to the inner ring body 3 in the second rotation direction L2. In other words, the inner ring body 3 can rotate relative to the gate 50 in the first rotation direction L1. And, when the inner ring body 3 rotates relative to the gate 50 in the first rotation direction L1, the teeth 52 and 4 are prevented from overlapping axially (see reference). Figure 9 , Figure 10 Therefore, the size of the claw component that can enter slot 5 is restored to W2 (refer to...). Figure 1 Hereinafter, the state in which the entirety of the limiting tooth 52 overlaps with the tooth 4 when viewed from the axial direction will be referred to as the open state of the gate 50 (or simply as the "open state").

[0061] Next, an example of the operation of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 will be described. The initial state described in this description is... Figure 5 The closed state is shown (the size of the slot 5 that can be entered is W5). Furthermore, it is set to a state where the first claw member 30 and the second claw member 40 are not engaged with the teeth 4.

[0062] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram showing the state of the inner ring 2 relative to the outer ring 1 when rotated in the second rotation direction L2 in Embodiment 1. It should be noted that... Figure 7 In subsequent figures, the main body 61 of the elastic member 60 and the housing 70 are omitted. Figure 5 In the state shown, when the inner ring 2 rotates relative to the outer ring 1 in the second rotation direction L2, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 does not enter the groove 5. Therefore, the second claw member 40 does not engage with the teeth 4. Furthermore, although the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30 enters the groove 5, it does not engage with the teeth 4. Therefore, the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30 may enter the groove 5 or climb onto the teeth 4 to swing (see reference). Figure 7 Arrow B1).

[0063] Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the state when the inner ring 2 begins to rotate relative to the outer ring 1 in the first rotation direction L1 in Embodiment 1. On one hand, from... Figure 5 From the state shown, the point in time at which the inner ring 2 begins to rotate relative to the outer ring 1 in the first rotation direction L1 is as follows: Figure 8 As shown, the size of the groove 5 that can be entered is W5. Therefore, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 cannot enter the groove 5. On the other hand, the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30 enters the groove 5 and contacts the limiting tooth 52. As a result, the rotation of the gate 50 in the first rotation direction L1 is restricted. Therefore, only the inner ring body 3 rotates in the first rotation direction L1.

[0064] Figure 9 It means from Figure 8 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the inner ring 2 rotates further relative to the outer ring 1 in the first rotation direction, starting from the initial state. Furthermore, when only the inner ring body 3 rotates in the first rotation direction L1, as... Figure 9 As shown, the teeth 4 of the inner ring body 3 contact the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30. That is, the first claw member 30 and the teeth 4 are engaged. Thus, the torque in the first rotational direction L1 is transmitted to the outer ring body 10 (see reference 10) via the first claw member 30. Figure 9 Arrow B2), outer ring 1 rotates in the first rotation direction L1 at the same speed as inner ring 2.

[0065] also, Figure 9 The state shown is one in which both teeth 52 and 4 are restricted from contacting the first tip 32d. That is, the inner ring body 3 and the gate 50 are in phase, and the gate 50 is in the open state. Therefore, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 enters the groove 5 (see reference). Figure 9 Arrow B3) is positioned to engage with tooth 4. Based on the above, the outer ring 1 and inner ring 2 are in a locked state where relative rotation is restricted.

[0066] Figure 10 It means from Figure 9 This is a schematic diagram showing the state where the rotational speeds of the outer ring 1 and inner ring 2 increase from the initial state. Figure 9 As the rotational speed of the outer ring 1 and inner ring 2 in the first rotational direction L1 increases from the state shown, the centrifugal force acting on the second claw member 40 also increases. Therefore, the second tip 42d moves radially outward against the force applied by the second spring 45. That is, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 disengages from the slot 5. This switches to a one-way clutch mode where the outer ring 1 can rotate relative to the inner ring 2 in the first rotational direction L1.

[0067] Figure 11 It means from Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the outer ring 1 begins to rotate relative to the inner ring 2 in the first rotation direction L1. Furthermore, as shown... Figure 11As shown, the rotation of the connecting member (not shown) connected to the outer ring 1 accelerates, increasing the rotational speed of the outer ring 1. Consequently, the rotational speed of the outer ring 1 in the first rotational direction L1 is greater than the rotational speed of the inner ring 2 in the first rotational direction L1. Therefore, the outer ring 1 rotates relative to the inner ring 2 in the first rotational direction L1. Furthermore, at this time, the first claw member 30 oscillates (see reference). Figure 11 Arrow B5).

[0068] Based on the above, the ratchet-type clutch device 100 according to Embodiment 1 can switch from a locking mode to a one-way clutch mode without using an actuator and a cam member. Therefore, miniaturization of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 is sought.

[0069] Figure 12 This diagram illustrates the configuration of the vehicle drive unit 200 according to Embodiment 1. Next, the vehicle drive unit 200 will be described. Figure 12 As shown, a vehicle drive unit 200 is mounted on the vehicle 300. The vehicle drive unit 200 drives the wheels 101L and 101R, which serve as drive wheels. It should be noted that the vehicle 300 has a main drive source such as an engine that generates power, and it moves by driving wheels other than the 101L and 101R. Therefore, the vehicle drive unit 200's driving of the wheels 101L and 101R assists in the movement of the vehicle 300.

[0070] The vehicle drive unit 200 includes a motor 110, a reduction gear 120, an intermediate gear 124, a gear ring 130, a differential gear 140, axles 150L and 150R, and a ratchet clutch device 100. In this embodiment, the ratchet clutch device 100 is located between the motor 110 and the reduction gear 120.

[0071] The output shaft 111 of the motor 110 is connected to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch device 100 (see reference). Figure 1 Furthermore, in the outer ring body 10 of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 (see reference) Figure 1 A connecting shaft 112 is connected. It should be noted that when the vehicle 300 moves forward, the torque input to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch device 100 is in the first rotational direction L1. On the other hand, when the vehicle 300 moves backward, the torque input to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch device 100 is in the second rotational direction L2.

[0072] The reduction gear 120 has a first gear 121 and a second gear 122 meshing with the first gear 121. The diameter of the second gear 122 is larger than the diameter of the first gear 121. Therefore, the torque is reduced when it is transmitted from the first gear 121 to the second gear 122. The first gear 121 is connected to a connecting shaft 112. The second gear 122 is connected to an intermediate shaft 123. Furthermore, the intermediate shaft 123 is connected to an intermediate gear 124.

[0073] Intermediate gear 124 meshes with ring gear 130. The diameter of ring gear 130 is larger than that of intermediate gear 124, resulting in reduced torque. Furthermore, ring gear 130 is connected to the differential housing (not shown) of differential gear 140.

[0074] The differential gear 140 is a device for absorbing the speed difference between wheels 101L and 101R. The differential gear 140 includes: a differential housing (not shown); a pinion shaft (not shown) that rotates integrally with the differential housing; a pair of pinions (not shown) rotatably supported on the pinion shaft; and a pair of half-shaft gears (not shown) that mesh with the pair of pinions. Axle 150L is connected to one of the half-shaft gears, and axle 150R is connected to the other half-shaft gear.

[0075] Therefore, the torque transmission path from the motor 110 to the axles 150L and 150R, starting from the upstream side, consists of the ratchet clutch 100, reduction gear 120, intermediate gear 124, gear ring 130, and differential gear 140. It should be noted that the upstream side of the torque transmission path refers to the side of the motor 110, and the downstream side is the side of the wheels 101L and 101R.

[0076] Figure 13 This is a timing diagram showing the vehicle drive unit of Embodiment 1. Next, the operation of the vehicle drive unit 200 will be explained. Figure 13 As shown, at time T0, vehicle 300 stops. In this case, the ratchet clutch 100 is in a locked state where both the first pawl member 30 and the second pawl member 40 are engaged in the groove 5 and can mesh with the teeth 4. (Refer to...) Figure 9 ).

[0077] When vehicle 300 moves forward at time T1, drive motor 110 is activated. Consequently, torque in the first rotational direction L1 is input to the inner ring body 3 of ratchet clutch 100. Furthermore, the first pawl member 30 engages with the teeth 4, and torque is transmitted to the outer ring body 10 (see reference). Figure 9 Especially referring to Figure 9(arrow B2). Therefore, the outer ring 1 and the inner ring 2 rotate at the same speed in the first rotation direction L1. Furthermore, the torque of the outer ring 1 is transmitted in the order of reduction gear 120, intermediate gear 124, gear ring 130, differential gear 140, and axle 150, driving the wheels 101L and 101R.

[0078] Here, the speed of vehicle 300 increases, and the rotational speeds of outer ring 1 and inner ring 2 also increase. Furthermore, the centrifugal force acting on the second claw member 40 also increases. In this embodiment, when the speed of vehicle 300 exceeds 100 km / h (time T2), the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 moves radially outward by overcoming the force applied by the second spring 45 through centrifugal force (see reference). Figure 10 Especially referring to Figure 10 Arrow B4). Thus, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 disengages from the slot 5. That is, from time T2, the mode becomes a one-way clutch mode (see...). Figure 10 ).

[0079] It should be noted that in this embodiment, when the speed of the vehicle 300 exceeds 100 km / h, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 moves radially outward, but this disclosure is not limited thereto. There is no particular limitation on the rotational speed of the outer ring 1 when the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 moves radially outward, and it can be appropriately set.

[0080] At time T3, the speed of vehicle 300 increases further, eliminating the need for assistance from wheels 101L and 101R. Therefore, the vehicle drive unit 200 stops driving motor 110, and the rotation of the inner ring body 3 also stops. On the other hand, wheels 101L and 101R rotate on the road surface, so axles 150L and 150R continue to rotate in the same direction. Furthermore, the torque transmitted from wheels 101L and 101R to axles 150L and 150R is transmitted in the following order: differential gear 140, ring gear 130, intermediate gear 124, reduction gear 120, and outer ring 1. That is, even after motor 110 stops driving, the torque in the first rotational direction L1 is still transmitted to outer ring 1.

[0081] Here, at time T2, the mode becomes one-way clutch mode (refer to...). Figure 10 Therefore, the outer ring 1 rotates relative to the inner ring 2 in the first rotation direction L1. At this time, the first claw member 30 swings (see reference). Figure 11 (Arrow B5). In addition, the engagement between the first claw member 30 and the limiting teeth 52 is released, and the gate 50 is in the closed state.

[0082] As the speed of vehicle 300 decreases, the centrifugal force acting on the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 also decreases. At time T4, the centrifugal force acting on the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 is less than the force applied by the second spring 45, and the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 moves radially inward. However, with the gate 50 closed, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 cannot enter the slot 5 (see reference). Figure 7 Therefore, the one-way clutch mode is maintained.

[0083] At time T5, the drive motor 110 is activated. Furthermore, the motor 110 generates torque such that the rotational speed of the inner ring 2 is greater than the rotational speed of the outer ring 1. As a result, the inner ring 2 rotates relative to the outer ring 1 in the first rotational direction L1. Also, the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30 enters the groove 5 and contacts the limiting tooth 52 (see reference). Figure 8 As a result, the limiting teeth 52 and 4 are in phase, and the gate 50 is in the open state. Furthermore, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 enters the slot 5, entering the locked mode (see reference). Figure 9 ).

[0084] At time T6, vehicle 300 begins to decelerate, and motor 110 stops accordingly. Furthermore, at time T7, vehicle 300 comes to a complete stop. During the period from time T5 to time T7, the speed of vehicle 300 does not exceed 100 km / h. That is to say, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 will not disengage from the slot 5 due to centrifugal force. Therefore, vehicle 300 remains stationary while maintaining the locked mode. It should be noted that, for this reason, the mode also becomes the locked mode at time T0.

[0085] At time T8, the vehicle 300 reverses, driving the motor 110. It should be noted that the torque generated by the motor 110 at this time is in the opposite direction to the forward rotation of the vehicle 300 (second rotation direction L2). Therefore, the second tip 42d of the second claw member 40 engages with the tooth 4, and torque is transmitted to the outer ring body 10. Furthermore, the outer ring 1 and the inner ring 2 rotate at the same speed in the second rotation direction L2. Thus, the wheels 101L and 101R receive torque from the vehicle drive unit 200 and rotate in the opposite direction to the forward rotation of the vehicle 300.

[0086] According to the vehicle drive unit 200 of Embodiment 1, during the driving of the vehicle 300 and when the motor 110 stops (during the period from time T3 to time T5), the mode becomes a one-way clutch mode. That is, the torque transmission path is cut off by the ratchet-type clutch device 100. Therefore, since the output shaft 111 and inner ring 2 of the motor 110 do not rotate, the rotation from the reverse input of the wheels 101L and 101R is not transmitted to the motor 110, reducing the load on the vehicle 300 during driving.

[0087] The first embodiment has been described above. Next, a modified example in which the position of the ratchet-type clutch device disposed on the torque transmission path of the vehicle drive unit 200 is changed will be described. In each modified example, the differences from the first embodiment will be the focus of the description.

[0088] (Variation Example 1)

[0089] Figure 14 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive unit 200A in Modified Example 1. (See diagram below.) Figure 14 As shown, the vehicle drive unit 200A of Modified Example 1 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the ratchet clutch 100 is located between the intermediate shaft 123 and the intermediate gear 124. Therefore, in Modified Example 1, the output shaft 111 of the motor 110 is connected to the first gear 121. The intermediate shaft 123 is connected to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch 100 (see reference). Figure 1 Furthermore, in the outer ring body 10 of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 (see reference) Figure 1 A second intermediate shaft 125 is connected to it. An intermediate gear 124 is connected to the second intermediate shaft 125.

[0090] According to the vehicle drive unit 200A of Modified Example 1, during the driving of the vehicle 300, and when the motor 110 stops (refer to...), Figure 13 During the period from time T3 to time T5, since the output shaft 111 of motor 110, reduction gear 120 and inner ring 2 do not rotate, the rotation from the reverse input of wheels 101L and 101R will not be transmitted to motor 110, reducing the load on vehicle 300 during driving.

[0091] (Variation Example 2)

[0092] Figure 15 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive unit 200B in Modified Example 2. (See diagram below.) Figure 15As shown, the vehicle drive unit 200B of Modification 1 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the ratchet clutch 100 is located between the gear ring 130 and the differential gear 140. Therefore, in Modification 2, the gear ring 130 is connected to the gear ring shaft 131. The gear ring shaft 131 is connected to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch 100 (see reference). Figure 1 Furthermore, the outer ring body 10 of the ratchet-type clutch device 100 (see reference) Figure 1 It is connected to the differential housing of the differential gear 140.

[0093] According to the vehicle drive unit 200B of Modification 2, during the driving of the vehicle 300, and when the motor 110 stops (see reference 2), Figure 13 During the period from time T3 to time T5, since the output shaft 111, reduction gear 120, intermediate gear 124, gear ring 130 and inner ring 2 of motor 110 do not rotate, the rotation from the reverse input of wheels 101L and 101R will not be transmitted to motor 110, thus reducing the load on vehicle 300 during driving.

[0094] (Variation Example 3)

[0095] Figure 16 This is a diagram showing the configuration of the vehicle drive unit 200C in Modified Example 3. (See diagram below.) Figure 16 As shown, the vehicle drive unit 200C of Modified Example 3 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the ratchet clutch 100 is located between the differential gear 140 and the wheel 101R. Therefore, in the differential gear 140 of Modified Example 3, one of the half-shaft gears (not shown) is connected to a transmission shaft 141. This transmission shaft 141 is connected to the inner ring body 3 of the ratchet clutch 100 (see reference 3). Figure 1 ). In the outer ring 1 of the ratchet clutch 100 (refer to Figure 1 It is connected to an axle with a 150R diameter.

[0096] In variation 3, during the movement of vehicle 300, and when motor 110 stops (see reference 3), the following occurs: Figure 13 During the period from time T3 to time T5, the vehicle drive unit 200C is in one-way clutch mode. Therefore, the outer ring 1, which is connected to the axle 150R, rotates in the first rotation direction L1. Furthermore, the torque of the outer ring 1 is not transmitted to the inner ring 2.

[0097] Furthermore, the rotation direction of axle 150L is the same as the first rotation direction L1 as that of axle 150R. Here, since the differential housing (not shown) stops rotating when motor 110 stops, the half-shaft gear connected to axle 150R and the half-shaft gear connected to transmission shaft 141 rotate in opposite directions. That is, transmission shaft 141 rotates in the second rotation direction L2. Therefore, inner ring 2 rotates in the second rotation direction L2, which is opposite to outer ring 1. Because it is a one-way clutch mode, the torque of inner ring 2 is not transmitted to outer ring 1.

[0098] Based on the above, and according to Variation 3, during the driving of vehicle 300, and when motor 110 stops (refer to...), Figure 13 During the period from time T3 to time T5, since the differential housing (not shown) of the reduction gear 120, intermediate gear 124, gear ring 130 and differential gear 140 does not rotate, the rotation from the reverse input of the wheels 101L and 101R will not be transmitted to the motor 110, thus reducing the load on the vehicle 300 during driving.

[0099] The above describes a modified example of the vehicle drive unit 200. Next, a modified example of the ratchet clutch device 100 will be described.

[0100] (Variation Example 4)

[0101] Figure 17 This is an enlarged view of the first pawl member 30 and its vicinity in the ratchet-type clutch device 100D of Modified Example 4. Figure 17 As shown, the ratchet clutch device 100D of Modified Example 4 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the limiting teeth 52 of the gate 50 has an inclined surface 80 formed therein.

[0102] The limiting tooth 52 has: a side surface 52a facing the first rotational direction L1; and an outer diameter surface 52b facing radially outward. It should be noted that the side surface 52a is the surface that contacts the first tip portion 32d of the first claw member 30 (see reference). Figure 8 The inclined surface 80 is located at the corner where the side surface 52a intersects the outer diameter surface 52b. The inclined surface 80 is inclined radially inward as it moves toward the first rotation direction L1. Next, the effect of the ratchet-type clutch device 100D in modified example 4 will be explained.

[0103] Figure 18 This is a diagram showing the state in which the short first claw member 30 enters the groove 5 in variant example 4. Figure 19 This is a diagram showing the state in which the long first claw member 30 abuts against the inclined plane 80 in modified example 4.

[0104] The first claw member 30 will have uneven length (tolerance) in the long dimension during the manufacturing process. Therefore, among the multiple first claw members 30, there is a first claw member 30 with a smaller length in the long dimension (hereinafter referred to as "shorter") (see reference). Figure 18 The first claw member 30 (refer to) has a larger length in the longitudinal direction (hereinafter referred to as "long") and a larger length in the longitudinal direction. Figure 19 ).

[0105] When the inner ring 2 rotates relative to the outer ring 1 in the first rotation direction L1, such as Figure 18 As shown, the first tip 32d of the shortest of the plurality of first claw members 30 enters the groove 5. Furthermore, the tip surface 32c contacts the side surface 52a.

[0106] On the other hand, at the point when the shorter first claw member 30 contacts the limiting tooth 52, the distance from the longer first claw member 30 to the side 52a is shorter, and the longer first claw member 30 cannot enter the groove 5. Therefore, as Figure 19 As shown, the first tip portion 32d of the first claw member 30 is in a state of abutting against the inclined surface 80. Specifically, in the first claw portion 32, the corner portion 32e where the inner surface 32a intersects the tip surface 32c is in a state of abutting against the inclined surface 80 of the limiting tooth portion 52. It should be noted that the first claw portion 32 is supported by the first spring 35 (see reference...). Figure 3 (etc.) A force is applied radially inward. Therefore, the state in which the corner 32e abuts against the inclined plane 80 is maintained.

[0107] Based on the above, the rotation of the gate 50 is not limited by the long first claw member 30, but by the short first claw member 30. Furthermore, when only the inner ring body 3 further rotates in the first rotation direction L1, as... Figure 18 As shown, one side 6 of the tooth 4 moves towards the first rotational direction L1 (refer to...). Figure 18 (arrow D1). Furthermore, one side 6 of the tooth 4 contacts the first tip 32d of the first claw member 30, and the short first claw member 30 engages with the tooth 4.

[0108] Similarly, as Figure 19 As shown, when one side 6 of the tooth 4 moves in the first rotational direction L1 (refer to...) Figure 19 (As indicated by arrow D2), one side 6 of the tooth 4 also contacts the corner 32e that abuts against the inclined surface 80. Thus, the long first claw member 30 engages with the tooth 4.

[0109] Therefore, according to Modification 4, the situation where the long first claw member 30 contacts the corner of the limiting tooth 52 and springs away radially outward is avoided. Therefore, compared to Embodiment 1, the number of first claw members 30 engaging with the tooth 4 is increased. Furthermore, the situation where only a portion of the multiple first claw members 30 is subjected to load is avoided.

[0110] In addition, such as Figure 17 As shown, the straight line connecting the corner 32e of the first claw member 30 and the rotation center O31 of the first claw member 30 is called the imaginary line M1. Furthermore, the straight line drawn along the inclined plane 80 is called the imaginary line M2. The angle θ at which the imaginary lines M1 and M2 intersect is preferably 90° or more. Accordingly, the inclined plane 80 becomes longer, and the first claw member 30 abutting against the inclined plane 80 of the limiting tooth 52, in other words, the first claw member 30 that meshes with the tooth 4 increases in length.

[0111] In this disclosure, when the inner ring rotates relative to the outer ring in a first rotational direction, the first claw member enters the slot. Furthermore, the first claw member restricts the rotation of the gate. Thus, only the inner ring body rotates in the first rotational direction, restricting the teeth from overlapping. Therefore, the gate is in the open state, and the second claw member enters the slot (entering the locked mode). Furthermore, when the rotational speed of the inner and outer rings increases, the second claw member disengages from the slot due to centrifugal force (entering the one-way clutch mode). In this state, when the outer ring rotates relative to the inner ring in the first rotational direction, the contact between the first claw member and the restricting teeth is released, and the gate is in the closed state. Therefore, the one-way clutch mode is maintained. According to this disclosure, miniaturization is achieved without the need for actuators, etc.

[0112] The embodiments and variations have been described above, but this disclosure is not limited to the examples described in the embodiments. For example, the inner ring 2 of the embodiment has a housing 70 for supporting the elastic member 60, but if the elastic member 60 can be supported by the inner ring body 3 and the gate 50, the housing 70 may not be required. Furthermore, the shape of the elastic member 60 is not limited to the shape described in the embodiments.

Claims

1. A ratchet-type clutch device, having an outer ring and an inner ring capable of relative rotation, The outer circumferential surface of the inner ring is alternately formed with teeth and grooves in the circumferential direction. The outer ring has: Multiple first claw members enter the groove and engage with the teeth from a first rotational direction; and Multiple second claw components enter the groove and engage with the teeth from a second rotational direction. The inner ring has: The inner ring body has the teeth and the grooves; A gate, coaxially arranged with the inner ring body, is rotatable relative to the inner ring body; and The elastic member applies a force to the gate in the rotational direction. A plurality of limiting teeth are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the gate, arranged at intervals equal to those of the teeth. The direction parallel to the rotation axis of the outer ring is defined as the axial direction. The closed state of the gate is defined as the state in which the limiting tooth is offset relative to the tooth in the first rotational direction when viewed from the axial direction, and the limiting tooth overlaps with a portion of the groove. The open state of the gate is defined as the state in which all the limiting teeth overlap with the teeth when viewed from the axial direction. The elastic member applies force to the gate in a manner that changes it from the open state to the closed state. Each of the first claw members is configured to enter the slot when the closed state is present. Each of the second claw members is configured to enter the slot when the open state is reached, and its center of gravity is located at a position closer to the top end than the rotation center of the corresponding second claw member. When a centrifugal force of a predetermined value or higher is applied, each of the second claw members disengages from the slot.

2. The ratchet-type clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, Each of the limiting teeth has: Outer diameter surface, facing radially outward; Side view, facing the first rotation direction; and The corner is the corner where the outer diameter surface intersects the side surface. The corner is a slope that is located radially inward as it faces the first rotation direction.

3. A vehicle drive unit that transmits torque generated by an electric motor to a pair of axles via a reduction gear, an intermediate gear, a ring gear, and a differential gear, wherein... A torque transmission path from the motor to the axle is provided The ratchet-type clutch device as described in claim 1 or claim 2, The inner ring is connected to a component on the upstream side of the torque transmission path. The outer ring is connected to a component on the downstream side of the torque transmission path.

4. The vehicle drive unit according to claim 3, wherein, The deceleration mechanism has: First gear; The second gear meshes with the first gear, and the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear; as well as The connecting shaft is connected to the first gear. The upstream component of the torque transmission path is the output shaft of the motor. The component downstream of the torque transmission path is the connecting shaft.

5. The vehicle drive unit according to claim 3, wherein, The deceleration mechanism has: First gear; The second gear meshes with the first gear, and the diameter of the second gear is larger than the diameter of the first gear; as well as The intermediate shaft is connected to the second gear. The intermediate gear is connected to the second intermediate shaft. The component on the upstream side of the torque transmission path is the intermediate shaft. The component on the downstream side of the torque transmission path is the second intermediate shaft.

6. The vehicle drive unit according to claim 3, wherein, The gear ring is connected to the gear ring shaft. The upstream component of the torque transmission path is the shaft for the gear ring. The component downstream of the torque transmission path is the differential housing of the differential gear.

7. The vehicle drive unit according to claim 3, wherein, The differential gear has: Differential housing; The pinion shaft rotates integrally with the differential housing; A pair of pinions, rotatably supported on the pinion shaft; as well as A pair of half-shaft gears mesh with a pair of pinions. The pair of said half-shaft gears are connected to the transmission shaft and one of the pair of said axles. The component on the upstream side of the torque transmission path is the transmission shaft. The component downstream of the torque transmission path is the other axle of the pair of axles.

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