Clutch control device and saddle-type vehicle

Abstract

The invention provides a clutch control device and a saddle-type vehicle, which can ensure the space of the legs of a user and improve the installation freedom degree of the clutch control device. A clutch control device is provided with: a release shaft (60) for operating a clutch device (51); a clutch lever shaft (81) to which manual operation is input; in a clutch control device, a release shaft (60) is rotated by a clutch lever shaft (81) and a second driven gear (89) that functions as an actuator operating member to which driving force of a clutch actuator (71) is input, and the clutch lever shaft (81) is disposed so as to be offset in the radial direction of the shaft with respect to the axis (CR) of the release shaft (60).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a clutch control device and a saddle-type vehicle. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, saddle-mounted vehicles equipped with clutch control devices that automatically engage and disengage the clutch mechanism via electrical control have been provided (see, for example, Patent Document 1). The clutch control device of Patent Document 1 has the following structure: a release shaft for actuating the clutch mechanism; a clutch lever shaft for inputting manual operation; and an actuator working part for inputting driving force from the clutch actuator. The clutch lever shaft for connecting the clutch cable is provided on the upper part of the release shaft.

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 7462108 Summary of the Invention

[0006] The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0007] Furthermore, power units, which are the objects to which clutch control devices are installed, have various layouts and shapes. Therefore, when installing conventional clutch control devices in various saddle-type vehicles, the clutch lever shaft, especially the upper clutch lever portion, may restrict the legroom of the user around the clutch device. In addition, the structure and shape around the clutch device may also hinder the installation of the clutch control device.

[0008] The present invention was made in view of the above circumstances, and its purpose is to ensure legroom for the user and to improve the freedom of installation of the clutch control device.

[0009] Methods for solving problems

[0010] The present invention provides a clutch control device comprising: a release shaft for actuating a clutch device; a clutch lever shaft for manual operation; and an actuator working member for being input with a driving force of a clutch actuator, wherein the release shaft rotates via the clutch lever shaft and the actuator working member, and the clutch lever shaft is offset radially relative to the axis of the release shaft.

[0011] Invention Effects

[0012] According to the present invention, space for the user's legs can be ensured, and the installation freedom of the clutch control device can be improved. Attached Figure Description

[0013] Figure 1This is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] Figure 2 This diagram shows the transmission along with its surrounding structure.

[0015] Figure 3 This diagram shows the clutch control unit and surrounding structures from the right side of the vehicle body.

[0016] Figure 4 It means from Figure 3 A picture showing the right cover removed.

[0017] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The arrow direction view of line aa.

[0018] Figure 6 From Figure 5 Diagram showing the clutch lever cover removed.

[0019] Figure 7 This diagram shows the clutch control unit and surrounding structure from the front of the vehicle body.

[0020] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the transmission mechanism inside the gearbox from above.

[0021] Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 A cross-sectional view of the bb line.

[0022] Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the main parts of the transmission mechanism.

[0023] Figure 11 This is a diagram used to illustrate the stop component.

[0024] Label Explanation

[0025] 10: Saddle-type vehicles;

[0026] 12: Power unit;

[0027] 12a: Crankshaft;

[0028] 12b: Main shaft (clutch shaft);

[0029] 12c: Intermediate shaft;

[0030] 23: Crankcase;

[0031] 23r: Right crankcase cover;

[0032] 23r1: First drum section (drum section);

[0033] 23r2: Second drum section;

[0034] 24: Cylinder section;

[0035] 31: Engine;

[0036] 41: Transmission;

[0037] 51: Clutch device;

[0038] 60: Release axis;

[0039] 70: Clutch control device;

[0040] 71: Clutch actuator;

[0041] 72: Organization Department;

[0042] 76: Fuel filler cap;

[0043] 81: Clutch lever shaft;

[0044] 82: Transmission mechanism;

[0045] 89: Second driven gear (actuator working part);

[0046] 93: First gear (engaging component);

[0047] 94: Second gear (engaging component);

[0048] CL: The axis of the clutch lever shaft;

[0049] CR: The axis of the release shaft. Detailed Implementation

[0050] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, in the description, unless otherwise specified, directions such as front, back, left, right, and up / down are assumed to be the same as directions relative to the vehicle body. Additionally, in each figure, the reference numeral "FR" indicates the front of the vehicle body, "UP" indicates the top of the vehicle body, and "LH" indicates the left side of the vehicle body.

[0051] [Implementation Method]

[0052] Figure 1 This is a side view of a saddle-type vehicle 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] The saddle-type vehicle 10 is a vehicle comprising the following parts: a frame 11, a power unit 12 supported on the frame 11, a front fork 14 supporting the front wheel 13 for steering, a swing arm 16 supporting the rear wheel 15, and a seat 17 for the passenger.

[0054] The saddle-riding vehicle 10 is a vehicle in which the occupant sits on the seat 17 in a straddling manner. The seat 17 is located above the rear of the frame 11.

[0055] The frame 11 includes: a front riser tube 18 disposed at the front end of the frame 11, a front frame 19 located behind the front riser tube 18, and a rear frame 20 located behind the front frame 19. The front end of the front frame 19 is connected to the front riser tube 18.

[0056] Seat 17 is supported by rear frame 20.

[0057] The front fork 14 is supported by the front seat tube 18 for easy left and right steering. The front wheel 13 is supported on an axle 13a located at the lower end of the front fork 14. A handlebar 21 for steering, held by the rider, is mounted on the upper end of the front fork 14.

[0058] The swing arm 16 is supported by a pivot 22 supported on the frame 11. The pivot 22 is a horizontally extending shaft in the vehicle width direction. The pivot 22 is inserted through the front end of the swing arm 16. The swing arm 16 swings up and down around the pivot 22.

[0059] The rear wheel 15 is supported on an axle 15a located at the rear end of the swing arm 16.

[0060] The power unit 12 is positioned between the front wheel 13 and the rear wheel 15 and is supported on the frame 11.

[0061] The power unit 12 is an internal combustion engine. The power unit 12 includes a crankcase 23 and a cylinder section 24 that houses a reciprocating piston. The exhaust port of the cylinder section 24 is connected to an exhaust device 25.

[0062] The output of the power unit 12 is transmitted to the rear wheel 15 through a drive force transmission component that connects the power unit 12 and the rear wheel 15.

[0063] In addition, the saddle-type vehicle 10 has: a front fender 26 that covers the front wheel 13 from above, a rear fender 27 that covers the rear wheel 15 from above, a footrest 28 for the occupant to place their feet, and a fuel tank 29 for storing fuel used by the power unit 12.

[0064] The front fender 26 is mounted on the front fork 14. The rear fender 27 and footpeg 28 are positioned below the seat 17. The fuel tank 29 is supported on the frame 11.

[0065] The power unit 12 has an engine 31 and a transmission 41 that constitute an internal combustion engine on its front side.

[0066] The engine 31 has a crankshaft 12a that extends in the left-right direction and is rotatably supported on the crankcase 23. A right crankcase cover 23r (hereinafter referred to as right cover 23r) is detachably mounted on the right side of the crankcase 23, covering the parts of the power unit 12 except for the cylinder section 24 (transmission 41, clutch device 51, etc., described later) from the outer side in the vehicle width direction (right side). The power transmission component between the power unit 12 and the rear wheel 15 is, for example, a chain drive mechanism.

[0067] [Transmission 41]

[0068] Reference Figure 2 The transmission 41 will be described.

[0069] The transmission 41 has a main shaft 12b, an intermediate shaft 12c, and a gear set 12d spanning the two shafts 12b and 12c, forming a stepped transmission. The main shaft 12b and the intermediate shaft 12c are located behind the crankshaft 12a. A clutch device 51 is coaxially arranged at the right end of the main shaft 12b. The clutch device 51 is a mechanism for connecting and disconnecting the power transmission between the crankshaft 12a and the main shaft 12b of the engine 31.

[0070] The intermediate shaft 12c forms the output shaft of the transmission 41 and the output shaft of the power unit 12. The left end of the intermediate shaft 12c protrudes to the rear left side of the crankcase 23 and is equipped with the drive sprocket 30 of the chain drive mechanism.

[0071] Near the transmission 41 is a shifting mechanism 46 for switching gear pairs in the transmission gear set 12d. The shifting mechanism 46 has a hollow cylindrical shift drum 47 parallel to the main shaft 12b and intermediate shaft 12c, a shift shaft 48, and multiple shift forks 49. The shift shaft 48 rotates the shift drum 47 according to the operation of the shift pedal. Through the rotation of the shift drum 47, the multiple shift forks 49 actuate according to guide grooves formed on the outer periphery of the shift drum 47, switching the gear pairs in the transmission gear set 12d. Furthermore, the shift pedal is an example of a shifting operation component.

[0072] [Clutch assembly 51]

[0073] The clutch assembly 51 is located near the inside of the right cover 23r. The clutch assembly 51 is a wet multi-plate clutch formed by stacking multiple clutch plates 52 axially on the main shaft 12b, which functions as a clutch shaft.

[0074] The clutch assembly 51 includes a clutch outer portion 53 that rotates integrally with the main shaft 12b and a clutch central portion 54 located on the inner circumference of the clutch outer portion 53 and rotatable relative to the main shaft 12b. Rotation of the crankshaft 12a is transmitted to the clutch central portion 54, which rotates integrally with the crankshaft 12a. Multiple clutch plates 52 are stacked between the clutch outer portion 53 and the clutch central portion 54.

[0075] A pressure plate 56, approximately the same diameter as the clutch plates 52, is positioned to the right (outer side in the vehicle width direction) of the stacked clutch plates 52. The pressure plate 56 is forced to the left by the clutch spring 57, causing the stacked clutch plates 52 to press against each other (friction engagement). As a result, the clutch device 51 is in a connected state capable of transmitting power, and the rotation of the crankshaft 12a can be transmitted to the main shaft 12b.

[0076] The clutch device 51 is configured as a normally closed clutch that is engaged when there is no external input.

[0077] The release of the clutch discs 52 from each other (friction engagement) is performed by a release mechanism 58 located near the inner side of the right cover 23r. The release mechanism 58 releases the clutch discs 52 from each other in the event of either occupant operation of the clutch lever (manual operation) or input of driving force to the clutch actuator 71. The clutch lever is an example of a clutch operating element.

[0078] [Release Agency 58]

[0079] The release mechanism 58 has a separation shaft 59 and a release shaft 60. The separation shaft 59 is configured to the right side of the main shaft 12b in a manner that allows it to reciprocate axially. The release shaft 60 is located to the right side of the separation shaft 59 and is perpendicular to the axial direction of the separation shaft 59. The release shaft 60 is rotatable about an axis CR passing through its center.

[0080] More specifically, when viewing the vehicle from the side in a view equivalent to an axial view along the main shaft 12b, the release shaft 60 is configured in a forward-leaning posture that is tilted towards the upper side and towards the front relative to the vertical direction (see reference). Figure 1 The upper part of the release shaft 60 protrudes to the outside of the right cover 23r.

[0081] An eccentric cam portion 58a is provided on the release shaft 60. The eccentric cam portion 58a engages with the right end of the separation shaft 59. When the release shaft 60 rotates around its axis, the separation shaft 59 moves to the right by the action of the eccentric cam portion 58a.

[0082] The release shaft 59 is configured to reciprocate freely as part of the pressure plate 56 of the clutch assembly 51. Therefore, when the release shaft 59 moves to the right, the pressure plate 56 moves to the right (disengages) against the force of the clutch spring 57. As a result, the frictional engagement of the stacked clutch discs 52 is released, and the normally closed clutch assembly 51 switches from a power-transmitting engaged state to a power-disengaging disengaged state.

[0083] The release mechanism 58 is not limited to an eccentric cam mechanism, and may also be a structure with a rack and pinion, a feed screw, etc. In addition, the structure and shape of each part of the release mechanism 58, including the release shaft 60, and the structure and shape of each component of the clutch device 51 may be appropriately changed.

[0084] [Clutch control device 70]

[0085] The saddle-type vehicle 10 of this structure is equipped with a clutch control device 70 that controls the clutch device 51.

[0086] Reference Figures 3 to 11 The clutch control device 70 will be described below. Figure 3 This diagram shows the clutch control device 70 and its surrounding structure from the right side of the vehicle body. Figure 4 It means from Figure 3 A picture showing the state of the right cover 23r after it has been removed.

[0087] Figure 5 It is along Figure 1 The arrow direction view of line aa. Figure 6 From Figure 5 The diagram shows the removal of the clutch lever cover 81c, which is a cover that covers the driven clutch lever 81r and its surroundings from above. Figure 6 As shown, a position sensor 68 that outputs a gear position signal is disposed near the upper part of the driven clutch lever 81r, and the position sensor 68 is also covered by the clutch lever cover 81c. Figure 7 The diagram shows the clutch control device 70 and its surrounding structure from the front of the vehicle body.

[0088] like Figures 3-7 As shown, the clutch control device 70 includes a mechanism 72 that receives inputs to the clutch lever (manual operation) and the driving force of the clutch actuator 71, and an engine control ECU 73. Figure 3 ) and motor control unit 74 ( Figure 3 The mechanism 72 is covered by the gearbox 90.

[0089] Figure 3 The engine control ECU 73 shown functions as a computer that controls various parts of the saddle-type vehicle 10, and is referred to as ECU 73 below. Figure 3The motor control unit 74 shown is a unit that controls the driving and stopping of motors 71a and 71b, which serve as the drive source for clutch actuator 71. Hereinafter, it is referred to as MCU74.

[0090] One motor 71a is located at the lower part of the front portion of the mechanism 72, and another motor 71b is located behind motor 71a at the lower part of the front portion of the mechanism 72. Figure 3 As shown, when observing the vehicle body from the side, the motor axis La passing through the center of the shaft of motor 71a is higher in the front and lower in the back, and the motor axis Lb passing through the center of the shaft of motor 71b is higher in the front and lower in the back behind the motor axis La, and is parallel to the motor axis La.

[0091] A first bulge 23r1 is provided on the right cover 23r, which is part of the clutch device 51, and protrudes below the motors 71a and 71b in the vehicle width direction. Figure 3 , Figure 4 ) and the second bulge 23r2, which bulges out in the vehicle width direction from the rear upper part of the first bulge 23r1. Figure 3 , Figure 4 Furthermore, a recess 23r3 is provided above the first bulge 23r1 and the second bulge 23r2, which is recessed inward in the vehicle width direction (see reference). Figure 2 In this structure, a portion (mechanism 72) of the clutch control device 70 is arranged in the space of the recess 23r3.

[0092] In addition, such as Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a filler port 76 is provided on the right cover 23r, behind the first bulge 23r1 and in front of the clutch device 51. The filler port 76 has a filler port 76a integrally formed on the right cover 23r and a cover 76b that closes the filler port 76a.

[0093] In this way, by providing multiple motors 71a and 71b as the drive source for the clutch actuator 71, compared to using a single motor, smaller motors can be used while ensuring the required torque, thus preventing the mechanism section 72 from becoming too large. Furthermore, the recess 23r3 allows the mechanism section 72 to be positioned closer to the inside in the vehicle width direction. This helps to suppress any protrusion of the mechanism section 72 outwards in the vehicle width direction.

[0094] In addition, the first bulge 23r1 and the second bulge 23r2 can protect the clutch control device 70 from obstacles and flying debris from below.

[0095] ECU 73 controls motors 71a and 71b via MCU 74 based on prescribed parameters consisting of at least one of engine speed (crankshaft 12a speed), throttle opening, gear position signal, shift pedal load, clutch disengagement signal, and front and rear wheel rotation speeds, thereby controlling the operating torque applied to release shaft 60. This control includes multiple clutch control modes: automatic mode M1 for automatic control, manual mode M2 ​​for manual operation, and manual intervention mode M3 for temporary manual operation.

[0096] Automatic mode M1 is as follows: based on automatic start and transmission control, it calculates the clutch capacity suitable for the driving state, controls the clutch device 51, and thus automatically performs clutch control so that the automatic two-wheeled vehicle can drive without the operation of a clutch lever.

[0097] Manual mode M2 ​​operates as follows: It calculates the clutch capacity based on the occupant's clutch operation instructions and controls the clutch mechanism 51, thereby engaging and disengaging the clutch mechanism 51 according to the occupant's instructions via clutch lever operation. Furthermore, even in manual mode M2, clutch control automatically engages when a gear shift is performed without clutch operation.

[0098] Manual intervention mode M3 is a temporary manual operation mode that receives clutch operation instructions from the occupant in automatic mode M1, calculates the clutch capacity based on the clutch operation instructions, and controls the clutch device 51.

[0099] For details regarding the control of these modes, known control methods described in Japanese Patent No. 7462108 and others can be widely applied.

[0100] The mechanism section 72 is positioned from the upper front part of the right cover 23r to the upper right part of the crankcase 23. (Example) Figures 4-6 As shown, the mechanism 72 includes motors 71a and 71b and a clutch lever shaft 81 whose operation (manual operation) is input to the clutch lever. Furthermore, the mechanism 72 includes a transmission mechanism 82 that transmits the driving force of the motors 71a and 71b and the rotation of the clutch lever shaft 81 to the release shaft 60. Figure 8 , Figure 9 ).

[0101] in addition, Figure 4 The reference numeral CR indicates the axis passing through the center of the release shaft 60, and the reference numeral CL indicates the axis passing through the center of the clutch lever shaft 81. Additionally, Figure 4 The label Wc, as shown, indicates the clutch cable that transmits the operation of the clutch lever to the clutch lever shaft 81. Figure 3 and Figure 4 The image shows the state after the clutch lever cover 81c has been removed.

[0102] Figure 8 This is a diagram showing the transmission mechanism 82 inside the gearbox 90 from above. Additionally, Figure 9 It is along Figure 8 The sectional view along line bb shows the cross-sectional structure of the mechanism section 72, including the transmission mechanism 82. Additionally, Figure 10 This is a diagram showing the main parts of the transmission mechanism 82.

[0103] like Figures 8-10 As shown, the transmission mechanism 82 includes drive gears 83a and 83b, a first reduction gear 84, a first minor diameter gear 85, a second reduction gear 86, a second minor diameter gear 87, a first driven gear 88, and a second driven gear 89. These gears 83a, 83b, 84-89, and their surrounding structures are... Figure 4 The gearbox 90 shown is covered.

[0104] Drive gears 83a and 83b are respectively mounted on the drive shafts of motors 71a and 71b, and rotate integrally with the drive shafts. Each drive gear 83a and 83b meshes with the first reduction gear 84. The first minor diameter gear 85 is a gear with a smaller diameter than the first reduction gear 84, is coaxially mounted with the first reduction gear 84, and rotates integrally with the first reduction gear 84.

[0105] The first minor diameter gear 85 meshes with the second reduction gear 86. The second minor diameter gear 87 is a gear with a smaller diameter than the second reduction gear 86, is coaxially arranged with the second reduction gear 86, and rotates integrally with the second reduction gear 86. The second minor diameter gear 87 meshes with the first driven gear 88.

[0106] Thus, by means of gears 84 to 87 between the drive gears 83a and 83b and the first driven gear 88, a speed reduction mechanism is formed to reduce the rotation of the motors 71a and 71b and transmit it to the first driven gear 88.

[0107] The first driven gear 88 meshes with the second driven gear 89. The second driven gear 89 is coaxially arranged with the clutch lever shaft 81 and can rotate freely relative to the clutch lever shaft 81.

[0108] The second driven gear 89 is a gear whose driving force is input to the clutch actuator 71 via the transmission mechanism 82. That is, the second driven gear 89 is an example of the "actuator working component that is input with the driving force of the clutch actuator 71" of this disclosure.

[0109] The clutch lever shaft 81 protrudes upwards from the surrounding gears 83a, 83b, 84-88, and thus protrudes upwards relative to the gearbox 90. A driven clutch lever 81r, connected to the clutch cable Wc, is integrally provided on the upper part of the clutch lever shaft 81, located slightly above the gearbox 90. Figures 4-6 ).like Figure 5 and Figure 7 As shown, the upper part of the clutch lever shaft 81 that protrudes upward relative to the gearbox 90 and the driven clutch lever 81r are covered from the outside by the clutch lever cover 81c.

[0110] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, a return spring 92 is installed on the clutch lever shaft 81. The return spring 92 applies a force to the clutch lever shaft 81 in the opposite direction to the rotational direction based on the operation of the clutch lever (rotation in the clutch disengagement direction).

[0111] A first gear 93 is rotatably supported below the second driven gear 89 on the clutch lever shaft 81. The first gear 93 is coaxially arranged with the clutch lever shaft 81 and is the gear that transmits the rotation of the clutch lever and the second driven gear 89 to the second gear 94, which rotates integrally with the release shaft 60.

[0112] When the driving force of the clutch actuator 71 is input to the second driven gear 89, the first gear 93 rotates independently of the clutch lever and clutch lever shaft 81, causing the second gear 94 to rotate. Furthermore, when manual operation is input to the clutch lever and clutch lever shaft 81, the first gear 93 rotates independently of the second driven gear 89, causing the second gear 94 to rotate. Through the rotation of the second gear 94, the clutch device 51 switches to a disengaged state where it cannot transmit power. According to this structure, the clutch lever shaft 81 and the clutch actuator 71 can be continuously linked via the transmission mechanism 82. Thus, a system is constructed that directly engages and disengages the clutch device 51 using the clutch actuator 71.

[0113] The first gear 93 and the second gear 94 are examples of the "engaging member for engaging the clutch lever shaft 81 and the release shaft 60" disclosed herein. In such an engaging member, in addition to gears, structures such as belts, cams, or linkage mechanisms can also be used.

[0114] like Figure 10 As shown, the first gear 93 is a sector gear with gears formed only within a specified angular range based on the axis CL of the clutch lever shaft 81, and is configured to extend from the clutch lever shaft 81 toward the release shaft 60 toward the rear of the vehicle body.

[0115] The second gear 94 is a sector gear with gears formed only within a predetermined angular range based on the axis of the release shaft 60, and is configured to extend from the release shaft 60 toward the clutch lever shaft 81 towards the front of the vehicle body. Since the rotation angle of the gear is smaller the further downstream in the transmission mechanism 82, the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 can be formed from small sector gears that are shorter in the circumferential direction of each gear. As a result, it is beneficial to the miniaturization of the transmission mechanism 82 and even the mechanism section 72.

[0116] That is, even when a large-diameter reduction gear is provided in order to obtain a reduction ratio, by cutting off the part outside the meshing range of the reduction gear and making it fan-shaped, it is possible to suppress the protrusion of the transmission mechanism 82 and the mechanism part 72 outward in the vehicle width direction and achieve weight reduction of the transmission mechanism 82 and the mechanism part 72.

[0117] In this structure, such as Figure 10 As shown, the clutch lever shaft 81 is arranged radially offset relative to the axis CR of the release shaft 60, therefore, as Figure 1 , Figure 6 and Figure 8 As shown, the clutch lever shaft 81 can be positioned at a forward position within the clutch assembly 51. This allows the clutch lever shaft 81 to be positioned forward of the legs of the occupant in the seated vehicle 10, preventing situations where the driven clutch lever 81, particularly the upper part, restricts space around the occupant's legs within the clutch assembly 51. Furthermore, compared to a configuration where the clutch lever shaft 81 is coaxial with the release shaft 60, it is easier to avoid situations where the structure and shape around the clutch assembly 51 obstruct the installation of the clutch control device 70.

[0118] Therefore, even if the layout and shape of the power unit 12, which is the object to be installed in the clutch control device 70, are different, it is possible to avoid situations such as the clutch lever shaft 81, especially the upper driven clutch lever 81r, restricting the space of the occupant's legs around the clutch device 51, thus increasing the installation freedom of the clutch control device 70.

[0119] Additionally, in this structure, such as Figure 4 As shown, when viewing the vehicle body from the side in a view corresponding to the axis of the clutch shaft (corresponding to the main shaft 12b) of the clutch device 51, the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 are housed in the area overlapping with the clutch device 51. Therefore, the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 can be compactly arranged using the area overlapping with the clutch device 51.

[0120] Additionally, when observing the vehicle body from the side, the line LX (referring to the driven clutch lever 81r above the connecting release shaft 60 and clutch lever shaft 81) is... Figure 4The engaging components (first gear 93 and second gear 94) that engage the clutch lever shaft 81 and the release shaft 60 are almost all located on one side, thus ensuring a larger amount of space on the other side. This space on the other side can be used for the legroom of the occupants of the saddle-type vehicle 10, thus ensuring ample legroom for the occupants.

[0121] In addition, the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 are covered by the right cover 23r of the clutch device 51.

[0122] Regarding the first gear 93 and the second gear 94, they need to be assembled in the appropriate meshing position so that when the driving force of the clutch actuator 71 is input, the clutch device 51 can operate from the normal state (the engaged state in this structure) to the working state (the disengaged state in this structure). In other words, the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 need to be assembled in a manner that matches the reference position of the release shaft 60 corresponding to the normal state of the clutch device 51, so that the first gear 93 and the second gear 94 are properly engaged.

[0123] In this structure, such as Figure 11 As shown, by means of a stop 23s integrally provided on the right cover 23r covering the first gear 93 and the second gear 94, the force of the clutch spring 57 is resisted, and the rotational position of each gear 93, 94 is restricted to the assembly position corresponding to the normal position of the release shaft 60.

[0124] Therefore, since the right cover 23r covers each gear 93 and 4, even when it is difficult to visually confirm each gear 93 and 94, the rotational position of each gear 93 and 94 can be easily set to a reasonable position for assembly. As a result, assemblability is improved.

[0125] exist Figure 11 In this designation, X1 represents the separation distance between the axis CL of the clutch lever shaft 81 and the axis CR of the release shaft 60 in the vehicle width direction, and X2 represents the separation distance in the vehicle body front-rear direction. In this structure, as described above, the sector gear formed by the first gear 93 is configured to extend rearward towards the vehicle body, and the sector gear formed by the second gear 94 is configured to extend forward towards the vehicle body. This allows the separation distance X1 in the vehicle width direction to be shorter than the separation distance X2 in the vehicle body front-rear direction, which helps to suppress the mechanism part 72 from protruding outward in the vehicle width direction.

[0126] In addition, Figure 11 In the example shown, the stop 23s abuts against the first gear 93 to restrict the rotational position of the first gear 93. However, the position, number, and shape of the stop 23s can be appropriately changed within the range that allows the rotational positions of each gear 93 and 94 to be in the proper assembly position.

[0127] In addition, the clutch control device 70 is mounted above the first bulge 23r1 provided on the right cover 23r, so the clutch control device 70 can be protected from flying debris and the like from below by the first bulge 23r1.

[0128] Additionally, a filler port 76 is provided on the right cover 23r, located behind the first bulge 23r1. The first bulge 23r1 protects the filler port 76 from debris or other objects coming from the front.

[0129] [Other Implementation Methods]

[0130] The above embodiments are merely one way of representing the present invention, and can be arbitrarily modified and applied without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

[0131] For example, in the above embodiment, the clutch lever shaft 81 is described as being positioned offset forward of the vehicle body relative to the axis CR of the release shaft 60, but this is not a limitation. The clutch lever shaft 81 may also be positioned rearward of the vehicle body relative to the axis CR of the release shaft 60. The direction and distance of separation of the clutch lever shaft 81 relative to the axis CR of the release shaft 60 may also be appropriately changed.

[0132] Additionally, an example is shown where the clutch control device 70 to which the present invention is applied is mounted. Figure 1 The power unit 12 shown is for the saddle-mounted vehicle 10, but it is not limited to this and can be installed in the power unit of any saddle-mounted vehicle. Furthermore, the saddle-mounted vehicle is not limited to a two-wheeled vehicle, but can also be a three-wheeled vehicle or a four-wheeled vehicle, etc.

[0133] The installation object of the clutch control device 70 of the present invention is not limited to the power unit 12 of the saddle-type vehicle 10, but can also be installed on any installation object having a clutch device.

[0134] [Structure supported by the above embodiments]

[0135] The above implementation supports the following structures.

[0136] (Structure 1) A clutch control device comprising: a release shaft for actuating a clutch device; a clutch lever shaft for manual operation; and an actuator working member for being driven by a clutch actuator, wherein the release shaft rotates via the clutch lever shaft and the actuator working member, and the clutch lever shaft is arranged radially offset relative to the axis of the release shaft.

[0137] According to this structure, the clutch lever shaft, which is input for manual operation, can be positioned away from the clutch assembly and other components. Therefore, depending on the layout and shape of the installation objects, including the clutch assembly, it is easy to separate the clutch lever shaft, which might restrict the space around the clutch assembly or the user, from these components and the user. This ensures sufficient legroom for the user and increases the freedom of installation for the clutch control device.

[0138] (Structure 2) The clutch control device according to Structure 1, wherein the clutch control device has an engagement member for engaging the clutch lever shaft with the release shaft, the engagement member being disposed in an area that overlaps with the clutch device when viewed along the axis of the clutch shaft of the clutch device.

[0139] According to this structure, the engaging components can be compactly configured using the area overlapping with the clutch device.

[0140] (Structure 3) According to the clutch control device of Structure 1 or 2, the engaging component that engages the release shaft with the clutch lever shaft includes a first gear and a second gear that mesh with each other. The first gear and the second gear are covered by a cover of the clutch device. When the cover is installed, the rotational position of the first gear and the second gear is restricted to an assembly position corresponding to the normal position of the release shaft by means of a stop provided on the cover.

[0141] According to this structure, since each gear is covered by a cover, even when it is difficult to visually confirm each gear, the rotational position of each gear can be easily positioned for assembly, thus improving assemblability.

[0142] (Structure 4) The clutch control device according to any one of Structures 1 to 3, wherein the clutch control device is mounted above the bulge portion of the clutch device.

[0143] According to this structure, the bulge can be used to protect the clutch control device from objects coming from below.

[0144] (Component 5) A saddle-type vehicle having a clutch control device, the clutch control device comprising: a release shaft that actuates a clutch device that connects and disconnects power transmission between an engine and a transmission in a power unit; a clutch lever shaft that is input for manual operation; and an actuator working member that is input with a driving force from a clutch actuator, wherein the release shaft rotates via the clutch lever shaft and the actuator working member, and when viewed from the side along the axis of the clutch shaft of the clutch device, the clutch lever shaft is positioned offset in either direction relative to the axis of the release shaft in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body.

[0145] According to this structure, the clutch lever shaft that is input for manual operation can be easily configured in a position that is away from the user's legs, i.e., the legs of the occupant, around the clutch device in the forward and backward direction, ensuring space for the occupant's legs and increasing the assembly freedom of the clutch control device.

[0146] (Structure 6) According to Structure 5, the saddle-type vehicle has a cover covering the outer side of the power unit in the vehicle width direction, at least a portion of the clutch control device is disposed on the outer side of the cover in the vehicle width direction, and the cover has a bulge extending outward in the vehicle width direction below the clutch control device and an oil filler port located behind the bulge.

[0147] According to this structure, the bulge can protect the clutch control device from below, as well as the filler neck from flying debris from the front.

Claims

1. A clutch control device, comprising: Release shaft (60) that actuates clutch device (51); The clutch lever shaft (81) is input for manual operation; and The actuator working part (89) is driven by the force input to the clutch actuator (71). in, The release shaft (60) rotates via the clutch lever shaft (81) and the actuator working component (89). The clutch lever shaft (81) is configured radially offset relative to the axis (CR) of the release shaft (60).

2. The clutch control device according to claim 1, wherein, The clutch control device has an engagement component that engages the clutch lever shaft (81) with the release shaft (60). The engaging component is positioned in the area that overlaps with the clutch device (51) when viewed along the axis of the clutch shaft (12b) of the clutch device (51).

3. The clutch control device according to claim 1, wherein, The engaging components that engage the release shaft (60) with the clutch lever shaft (81) include a first gear (93) and a second gear (94) that mesh with each other. The first gear (93) and the second gear (94) are covered by a cover (23r) disposed on the clutch device (51). With the cover (23r) installed, the rotational positions of the first gear (93) and the second gear (94) are restricted to an assembly position corresponding to the normal position of the release shaft (60) by means of the stop (23s) provided on the cover (23r).

4. The clutch control device according to claim 1, wherein, The clutch control device is installed above the bulge (23r1) of the clutch device (51).

5. A saddle-type vehicle having a clutch control device (70), The clutch control device (70) includes: Release shaft (60), which actuates clutch device (51), which connects and disconnects the power transmission between engine (31) and transmission (41) in power unit (12); The clutch lever shaft (81) is input for manual operation; and The actuator working part (89) is driven by the force input to the clutch actuator (71). in, The release shaft (60) rotates via the clutch lever shaft (81) and the actuator working component (89). When viewing the vehicle body from the side along the axis of the clutch shaft (12b) of the clutch device (51), the clutch lever shaft (81) is positioned offset in either direction relative to the axis (CR) of the release shaft (60) in the longitudinal direction of the vehicle body.

6. The saddle-type vehicle according to claim 5, wherein, The saddle-type vehicle has a cover (23r) that covers the outer side of the power unit (12) in the vehicle width direction. At least a portion of the clutch control device (70) is disposed on the outer side of the cover (23r) in the vehicle width direction. The cover (23r) is provided with a bulge (23r1) that bulges outward in the vehicle width direction below the clutch control device (70) and an oil filler (76) located behind the bulge (23r1).

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