Clutch device

Abstract

The clutch device (10) includes: a clutch spring (25) that applies force to the pressure plate (70) in a first direction (D1) and a stop plate (100) that prevents the pressure plate (70) from moving away from the clutch center sleeve (40) by a predetermined distance in a second direction (D2). The stop plate (100) has a first contact surface (102) provided on the surface (100D1) of the stop plate (100) in the first direction (D1) and inclined in the circumferential direction (S), and in contact with the end (25B) of the clutch spring (25) in the second direction (D2). The clutch device includes a pressure plate side protrusion (88) provided on the surface (70D2) of the pressure plate (70) in the second direction (D2) and protruding in the second direction (D2), and capable of surface contact with the stop plate (100).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a clutch device. Background Technology

[0002] Conventional vehicles such as motorcycles have been equipped with clutch devices. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a clutch device comprising a clutch center sleeve that holds an output-side rotating plate, a pressure plate configured to approach and disengage relative to the clutch center sleeve, and a clutch spring that applies force to the pressure plate toward the clutch center sleeve. The clutch spring is housed in a receiving portion formed on the pressure plate. One end of the clutch spring contacts the pressure plate, and the other end of the clutch spring contacts a stop plate fixed to the clutch center sleeve. Existing technical documents Patent documents

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent No. 6894792. Summary of the Invention The problem that the invention aims to solve

[0004] However, in Patent Document 1, the other end of the clutch spring contacts a surface in the stop plate that is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft. In this case, depending on the model, the pressure plate may suddenly approach the clutch center sleeve, causing the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate to be suddenly pressed. Furthermore, depending on the model, a feeling of freewheeling may sometimes occur during rapid acceleration. That is, the clutch may unexpectedly engage suddenly, resulting in a feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration. To address this, the applicant of this application has studied how to suppress the sudden approach of the pressure plate to the clutch center sleeve in one model and reduce the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration in another model by tilting the surface in the stop plate that contacts the other end of the clutch spring. However, in this method, the pressure plate will make point or line contact with the stop plate, which will apply excessive load to the stop plate, resulting in the stop plate potentially breaking (e.g., buckling).

[0005] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and its object is to provide a clutch device that can suppress the pressure plate from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve, reduce the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration, and prevent damage to the stop plate. Technical solutions to the problem

[0006] The clutch device of the present invention transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input shaft to an output shaft. The clutch device includes: a clutch center sleeve housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotated by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and rotates together with the output shaft; a pressure plate configured to approach or move away from the clutch center sleeve and to rotate relative to it, holding a plurality of output-side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and capable of pressing the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates; a clutch spring that applies force to the pressure plate in the first direction when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is designated as a first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center sleeve is designated as a second direction; and a stop plate fixed to the clutch center sleeve and configured to contact the pressure plate, and to prevent the pressure plate from moving towards the output shaft. The clutch spring is located at a distance greater than or equal to the clutch center sleeve in the second direction. The end of the clutch spring in the first direction contacts the pressure plate, and the end of the clutch spring in the second direction contacts the stop plate. The pressure plate has a receiving portion that is recessed from the second direction toward the first direction and accommodates the clutch spring. The stop plate has a contact surface that is provided on the surface of the stop plate in the first direction, is inclined in the circumferential direction, and contacts the end of the clutch spring in the second direction. The clutch device has a stop plate side protrusion or a pressure plate side protrusion. The stop plate side protrusion is provided on the surface of the stop plate in the first direction, protrudes in the first direction, and can make surface contact with the pressure plate. The pressure plate side protrusion is provided on the surface of the pressure plate in the second direction, protrudes in the second direction, and can make surface contact with the stop plate.

[0007] According to the clutch device of the present invention, the contact surface of the stop plate is inclined in the circumferential direction and contacts the end of the clutch spring in the second direction. This prevents the pressure plate from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve and reduces the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration. Furthermore, the clutch device includes a stop plate-side protrusion that can make surface contact with the pressure plate or a pressure plate-side protrusion that can make surface contact with the stop plate. Thus, the pressure plate and the stop plate make surface contact via the stop plate-side protrusion or the pressure plate-side protrusion, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate from the pressure plate and preventing damage to the stop plate.

[0008] Furthermore, other clutch devices according to the present invention transmit or disconnect the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft. These clutch devices include: a clutch center sleeve housed within a clutch housing that holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates that are rotated by the rotational drive of the input shaft, and rotates together with the output shaft; a pressure plate configured to approach or move away from the clutch center sleeve and to rotate relative to it, holding a plurality of output-side rotating plates alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plates, and capable of pressing the input-side rotating plates and the output-side rotating plates; a clutch spring that applies force to the pressure plate in the first direction when the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is designated as a first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center sleeve is designated as a second direction; and a stop plate fixed to the pressure plate and configured to contact the clutch center sleeve, and preventing the pressure plate from moving away in the second direction. The clutch center sleeve is at a specified distance from the clutch center sleeve. The end of the clutch spring in the first direction contacts the stop plate, and the end of the clutch spring in the second direction contacts the clutch center sleeve. The clutch center sleeve has a receiving portion that is recessed from the first direction toward the second direction and accommodates the clutch spring. The stop plate has a contact surface that is disposed on the surface of the stop plate in the second direction, is inclined in the circumferential direction, and contacts the end of the clutch spring in the first direction. The clutch device has a stop plate side protrusion or a center sleeve side protrusion. The stop plate side protrusion is disposed on the surface of the stop plate in the second direction, protrudes in the second direction, and can make surface contact with the clutch center sleeve. The center sleeve side protrusion is disposed on the surface of the clutch center sleeve in the first direction, protrudes in the first direction, and can make surface contact with the stop plate.

[0009] According to other clutch devices of the present invention, the contact surface of the stop plate is inclined in the circumferential direction and contacts the end of the clutch spring in a first direction. This prevents the pressure plate from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve and reduces the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration. Furthermore, the clutch device includes a stop plate-side protrusion that can make surface contact with the clutch center sleeve or a center sleeve-side protrusion that can make surface contact with the stop plate. Thus, the clutch center sleeve and the stop plate make surface contact via the stop plate-side protrusion or the center sleeve-side protrusion, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate from the clutch center sleeve and preventing damage to the stop plate. Invention Effects

[0010] According to the present invention, a clutch device can be provided that can suppress the pressure plate from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve, reduce the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration, and suppress damage to the stop plate. Attached Figure Description

[0011] Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 This is a perspective view of the clutch center sleeve according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 This is a top view of the clutch center sleeve according to the first embodiment. Figure 4 This is a perspective view of the pressure plate involved in the first embodiment. Figure 5 This is a top view of the pressure plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 6 This is a perspective view of the pressure plate involved in the first embodiment. Figure 7 This is a top view of the pressure plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 8 This is a side view of the pressure plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 9 This is a perspective view of the stop plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 10 This is a side view of the stop plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 11 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the function of the auxiliary cam surface on the center sleeve side and the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side. Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram illustrating the function of the sliding cam surface on the center sleeve side and the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side. Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the first embodiment. Figure 14 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state after the pressure plate and the stop plate of the first embodiment come into contact. Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the second embodiment. Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the third embodiment. Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the fifth embodiment. Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve, pressure plate, and stop plate according to the sixth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0012] Embodiments of the clutch device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the embodiments described herein are not intended to be particularly limiting of the invention. Furthermore, components / parts that perform the same function are labeled with the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions are omitted or simplified where appropriate.

[0013] <First Implementation> Figure 1 This is a cross-sectional view of the clutch device 10 according to this embodiment. The clutch device 10 is provided, for example, in a vehicle such as a motorcycle. The clutch device 10 is, for example, a device that transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of the input shaft (crankshaft) of a drive source such as a motorcycle engine to the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the drive wheel (rear wheel) via the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is disposed between the engine and the transmission.

[0014] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch assembly 10 approaches and moves away from the clutch center sleeve 40 is defined as direction D; the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center sleeve 40 is defined as the first direction D1; and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 moves away from the clutch center sleeve 40 is defined as the second direction D2. Furthermore, the circumferential direction (i.e., the rotational direction) of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70 is defined as circumferential direction S; and the direction in circumferential direction S from one pressure plate-side cam portion 90 to the other pressure plate-side cam portion 90 is defined as the first circumferential direction S1 (refer to...). Figure 5 The direction from the other pressure plate side cam 90 toward the pressure plate side cam 90 is set as the second circumferential S2 (refer to...). Figure 5 In this embodiment, the axial directions of the output shaft 15, clutch housing 30, clutch center sleeve 40, pressure plate 70, and stop plate 100 are the same as direction D. Furthermore, the pressure plate 70 and clutch center sleeve 40 rotate along the first circumferential direction S1. However, the above directions are merely provided for ease of explanation and are not intended to limit the configuration of the clutch device 10 or the present invention.

[0015] like Figure 1 As shown, the clutch assembly 10 includes an output shaft 15, an input-side rotating plate 20, an output-side rotating plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center sleeve 40, a pressure plate 70, a stop plate 100, and a clutch spring 25. The clutch assembly 10 is a so-called internal clutch assembly.

[0016] like Figure 1As shown, the output shaft 15 is a hollow shaft. One end of the output shaft 15 supports the input gear 35 and clutch housing 30 (described later) for free rotation via a needle roller bearing 15A. The output shaft 15 securely supports the clutch center sleeve 40 via a nut 15B. That is, the output shaft 15 can rotate integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40. The other end of the output shaft 15 is connected, for example, to a motorcycle gearbox (not shown).

[0017] like Figure 1 As shown, the output shaft 15 has a push rod 16A and a push member 16B disposed adjacent to the push rod 16A in its hollow portion 15H. The hollow portion 15H functions as a flow path for clutch oil. Clutch oil flows within the output shaft 15, i.e., within the hollow portion 15H. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B can slide within the hollow portion 15H of the output shaft 15. One end of the push rod 16A (the end on the left in the figure) is connected to the clutch mechanism of the motorcycle (e.g., clutch lever, operating button), and slides within the hollow portion 15H by the driver's clutch operation, pressing the push member 16B in the second direction D2. A portion of the push member 16B protrudes outward from the output shaft 15 (in the second direction D2) and is connected to the release bearing 18 disposed on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B are formed to be smaller than the inner diameter of the hollow portion 15H to ensure the flow of clutch oil within the hollow portion 15H.

[0018] The clutch housing 30 is formed of aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed in the shape of a bottomed cylinder. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the clutch housing 30 has a bottom wall 31 formed in a generally circular shape and a side wall 33 extending from the edge of the bottom wall 31 in a second direction D2. The clutch housing 30 holds a plurality of input-side rotating plates 20.

[0019] like Figure 1 As shown, an input gear 35 is provided on the bottom wall 31 of the clutch housing 30. The input gear 35 is fixed to the bottom wall 31 via a torque damper 35A and a rivet 35B. The input gear 35 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) that rotates due to the rotational drive of the engine's input shaft. The input gear 35 is rotated integrally with the clutch housing 30, independent of the output shaft 15.

[0020] The input-side rotary plate 20 is driven to rotate by the rotation of the input shaft. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the input-side rotating plate 20 is held on the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The input-side rotating plate 20 is held in the clutch housing 30 by spline engagement. The input-side rotating plate 20 is configured to be displaceable along the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch housing 30. The input-side rotating plate 20 is configured to rotate integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0021] The input-side rotating plate 20 is a component that presses against the output-side rotating plate 22. The input-side rotating plate 20 is formed in a ring shape. The input-side rotating plate 20 is formed by die casting aluminum. Friction elements (not shown) composed of multiple sheets of paper are attached to the surface and back of the input-side rotating plate 20. Grooves of several hundred micrometers in depth are formed between the friction elements to maintain the clutch oil level.

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 is housed within the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 is concentrically configured with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center sleeve 40 has a cylindrical body 42 and a flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer periphery of the body 42. The clutch center sleeve 40 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 that are alternately configured with the input-side rotating plate 20 in direction D. The clutch center sleeve 40 is rotated together with the output shaft 15.

[0023] like Figure 2 As shown, the main body 42 includes: an annular base wall 43, an outer peripheral wall 45 located radially outward of the base wall 43 and extending toward the second direction D2, an output shaft holding portion 50 provided in the center of the base wall 43, and a plurality of central sleeve side cam portions 60 connected to the base wall 43 and the outer peripheral wall 45.

[0024] like Figure 2 As shown, the output shaft holding portion 50 is formed in a cylindrical shape. A space for the output shaft 15 (see reference) is formed in the output shaft holding portion 50. Figure 1 An insertion hole 51 is inserted and splined into the shaft. The insertion hole 51 is formed through the base wall 43. Multiple spline grooves are formed axially on the inner circumferential surface 50A of the insertion hole 51 in the output shaft retaining part 50. An output shaft 15 (see reference 15) is connected to the output shaft retaining part 50. Figure 1 ).

[0025] like Figure 2 As shown, the outer peripheral wall 45 of the clutch center sleeve 40 is disposed radially outward from the output shaft retaining portion 50. A splined engagement portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The splined engagement portion 46 has: a plurality of center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 extending axially along the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45 in the clutch center sleeve 40; and a plurality of spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 and extending axially in the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 retain the output-side rotating plate 22. The plurality of center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 are formed with the same shape. The center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral wall 45. The outer peripheral surface of the center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 is formed substantially parallel to the axis of the output shaft 15.

[0026] The output-side rotating plate 22 is held in the spline engagement portion 46 of the clutch center sleeve 40 and the pressure plate 70. A portion of the output-side rotating plate 22 is held in the center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 and spline groove 48 of the clutch center sleeve 40 by spline engagement. Another portion of the output-side rotating plate 22 is held in the pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 of the pressure plate 70 (described later). Figure 4 The output-side rotating plate 22 is configured to be axially displaceable along the clutch center sleeve 40. The output-side rotating plate 22 is configured to rotate integrally with the clutch center sleeve 40. The output-side rotating plate 22 is configured to be axially displaceable along the pressure plate 70. The output-side rotating plate 22 is configured to rotate integrally with the pressure plate 70.

[0027] The output-side rotating plate 22 is a component that presses against the input-side rotating plate 20. The output-side rotating plate 22 is formed in a ring shape. The output-side rotating plate 22 is formed by punching a thin sheet of SPCC material into a ring shape. Alternatively, the friction element provided on the input-side rotating plate 20 may be provided on the output-side rotating plate 22 instead of the input-side rotating plate 20, or it may be provided on both the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, the center sleeve-side cam portion 60 is formed into a platform shape with a cam surface composed of inclined surfaces constituting the assist and slide mechanism. This assist and slide mechanism generates a force that increases the pressing force (clamping force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22, i.e., an assist torque, or a force that causes the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22 to separate earlier and transition to a semi-engaged state, i.e., a slide torque. The center sleeve-side cam portion 60 is formed to protrude from the base wall 43 in the second direction D2. Figure 3 As shown, the center sleeve-side cam portions 60 are equally spaced along the circumferential direction S of the clutch center sleeve 40. In this embodiment, the clutch center sleeve 40 has three center sleeve-side cam portions 60, but the number of center sleeve-side cam portions 60 is not limited to three.

[0029] like Figure 3As shown, the center sleeve-side cam portion 60 is located radially outside the output shaft holding portion 50. The center sleeve-side cam portion 60 has a center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and a center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S. The center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60S is configured to generate a force from the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 (here, the first direction D1) when rotating relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby increasing the pressing force (clamping force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. In this embodiment, when the above force is generated, the position of the pressure plate 70 relative to the clutch center sleeve 40 does not change, and the pressure plate 70 does not need to physically approach the clutch center sleeve 40. Alternatively, the pressure plate 70 can also physically displace relative to the clutch center sleeve 40. The center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S is configured to move the pressure plate 70 away from the clutch center sleeve 40 when rotating relative to the pressure plate 70, thereby reducing the pressing force (clamping force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. In the adjacent central sleeve side cam portions 60 in the circumferential direction S, the central sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one central sleeve side cam portion 60L and the central sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S of another central sleeve side cam portion 60M are arranged facing each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0030] like Figure 2 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has multiple (three in this embodiment) bosses 54. The bosses 54 support the stop plate 100 (see reference). Figure 1 The clutch is a component of the clutch. Multiple bosses 54 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. Each boss 54 is cylindrical. The bosses 54 are located radially outward from the output shaft retaining portion 50. The bosses 54 extend toward the pressure plate 70 (i.e., toward the second direction D2). The bosses 54 are located on the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The bosses 54 are located in the rotational direction S between the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. A threaded hole 54H is formed in the bosses 54. The threaded hole 54H extends axially along the clutch center sleeve 40. The threaded hole 54H is for bolts 28 (see reference) used to fix the stop plate 100 to the clutch center sleeve 40. Figure 1 )insert.

[0031] like Figure 2 , Figure 3 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 40 has a center sleeve-side cam hole 43H that extends axially through a portion of the base wall 43 along the output shaft 15. The center sleeve-side cam hole 43H extends radially from the side of the output shaft retaining portion 50 to the outer peripheral wall 45. The center sleeve-side cam hole 43H is formed between a center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A of one center sleeve-side cam portion 60 and a center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S of another center sleeve-side cam portion 60. Viewed axially from the clutch center sleeve 40, the center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A overlaps with a portion of the center sleeve-side cam hole 43H.

[0032] like Figure 1 As shown, the pressure plate 70 is configured to approach or disengage from the clutch center sleeve 40 and to rotate relative to it. The pressure plate 70 is configured to press against the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate 70 is concentrically disposed with the clutch center sleeve 40 and the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 70 has a main body 72 and a flange 98 that connects to the outer periphery of the main body 72 in a second direction D2 and extends radially outward. The main body 72 protrudes in a first direction D1 beyond the flange 98. The flange 98 is located at the outer diameter end of the pressure plate 70. The flange 98 is located beyond the cylindrical portion 80 described later (see also...). Figure 4 The pressure plate 70 holds a plurality of output-side rotating plates 22 that are alternately arranged with the input-side rotating plate 20. The flange 98 is configured to press down on the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plates 22.

[0033] like Figure 4 As shown, the main body 72 includes a cylindrical portion 80, multiple pressure plate side cam portions 90, and a spring receiving portion 84 (see reference). Figure 6 Spring housing 84 is an example of a housing.

[0034] The cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 is integrally formed with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The cylindrical portion 80 houses the front end portion 15T of the output shaft 15 (see reference). Figure 1 The cylindrical section 80 houses the release bearing 18 (see reference). Figure 1 The cylindrical portion 80 is the part that receives the pressing pressure from the push member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is the part that receives the clutch oil flowing out from the front end 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0035] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed into a platform shape with a cam surface composed of inclined surfaces constituting an auxiliary and sliding mechanism, which slides on the center sleeve side cam portion 60 to generate auxiliary torque or sliding torque. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 is formed to protrude from the flange 98 in the first direction D1. Figure 5 As shown, the pressure plate side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals on the circumferential direction S of the pressure plate 70. In this embodiment, the pressure plate 70 has three pressure plate side cam portions 90, but the number of pressure plate side cam portions 90 is not limited to three.

[0036] like Figure 5 As shown, the pressure plate side cam portion 90 is located radially outside the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side cam portion 90 has a pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A (see also...). Figure 6 , Figure 7The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to contact the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. The pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force from the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40 (here, the first direction D1) when the clutch center sleeve 40 rotates relative to it during acceleration, etc., thereby increasing the pressing force (clamping force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to contact the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is configured to cause the pressure plate 70 to disengage from the clutch center sleeve 40 when the clutch center sleeve 40 rotates relative to it during deceleration, etc., thereby reducing the pressing force (clamping force) between the input side rotating plate 20 and the output side rotating plate 22. In the adjacent pressure plate side cam portions 90 in the circumferential direction S, the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A of one pressure plate side cam portion 90L and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S of another pressure plate side cam portion 90M are arranged facing each other in the circumferential direction S.

[0037] Here, the functions of the center sleeve side cam portion 60 and the pressure plate side cam portion 90 will be explained. When the engine speed increases, and the rotational driving force input to the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30 can be transmitted to the output shaft 15 via the clutch center sleeve 40, as... Figure 11 As shown, a first circumferential rotational force S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. For this purpose, the auxiliary cam surface 60A on the center sleeve side and the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side generate a force in the first direction D1 on the pressure plate 70. Consequently, the pressure plate 70 moves closer to the clutch center sleeve 40 (first direction D1), increasing the pressing force (clamping force) between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22.

[0038] On the other hand, when the rotational speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotational speed of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30, resulting in a reverse torque, such as Figure 12 As shown, a first circumferential rotational force S1 is applied to the clutch center sleeve 40. To this end, the pressure plate 70 is moved in the second direction D2 by the action of the sliding cam surface 60S on the center sleeve side and the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side, thereby releasing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate 20 and the output-side rotating plate 22. This avoids adverse effects on the engine and transmission caused by reverse torque.

[0039] like Figure 4 , Figure 5As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure plate-side cam hole 73H that extends axially through a portion of the main body 72 along the output shaft 15. The pressure plate-side cam hole 73H is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate-side cam hole 73H extends radially from the side of the cylindrical portion 80 to a position radially outward from the pressure plate-side cam portion 90. The pressure plate-side cam hole 73H is formed between the pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate-side sliding cam surface 90S of the adjacent pressure plate-side cam portion 90. Figure 5 , Figure 7 As shown, viewed axially from the pressure plate 70, the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side overlaps with a portion of the cam hole 73H on the pressure plate side. When the clutch center sleeve 40 is assembled with the pressure plate 70, viewed axially from the pressure plate 70, the boss portion 54 of the clutch center sleeve 40 is located within the cam hole 73H on the pressure plate side. The cam hole 73H on the pressure plate side is an example of a through hole.

[0040] like Figure 4 As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a plurality of pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 formed on the outer peripheral surface of the main body 72. The pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 hold at least one output-side rotating plate 22. The pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are located on the side closer to the first direction D1 than the flange 98. The pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are located radially outward than the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are located radially outward than the pressure plate-side cam portion 90. The plurality of pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. In addition, in this embodiment, since a portion of the pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 is removed, the spacing of that portion is increased, but other adjacent pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 are arranged at equal intervals.

[0041] like Figure 6 and Figure 7 As shown, a spring receiving portion 84 is formed on the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The spring receiving portion 84 is recessed from the second direction D2 towards the first direction D1. The spring receiving portion 84 is circular when viewed from direction D. The spring receiving portion 84 houses the clutch spring 25 (see reference). Figure 1 The spring receiving portion 84 is arranged side-by-side with the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A in the circumferential direction S. The spring receiving portion 84 is positioned in the circumferential direction S between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. Figure 13 As shown, the spring receiving portion 84 holds the end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1, as described later. The spring receiving portion 84 has a retaining surface 84A for retaining the end 25A in the first direction D1. The retaining surface 84A is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The spring receiving portion 84 fixes the end 25A in the first direction D1 to the pressure plate 70.

[0042] like Figure 6As shown, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure plate-side protrusion 88. The pressure plate-side protrusion 88 is configured to make surface contact with the stop plate 100. The pressure plate-side protrusion 88 is configured to make contact with the first contact surface 102 of the stop plate 100 (see reference). Figure 14 The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is provided on the surface 70D2 of the pressure plate 70 on the second direction D2 side. Here, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is provided in the portion of the surface 70D2 of the pressure plate 70 on the second direction D2 side adjacent to the spring receiving portion 84. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is integrally formed with the die-cast pressure plate 70. Alternatively, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 may be separately provided from the pressure plate 70 and installed on the pressure plate 70. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located between the spring receiving portion 84 and the pressure plate side cam hole 73H in the circumferential direction S. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the spring receiving portion 84. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located on the radially outer side of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located on the radially inner side of the flange 98. Figure 7 As shown, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is formed in a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can also be formed in a circular or elliptical shape. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the radial length LP1 of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is greater than the circumferential length LP2 of the pressure plate side protrusion 88. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the circle CL1 centered on the axis 15C of the output shaft 15 and passing through the center 84C of the spring receiving portion 84 overlaps with the pressure plate side protrusion 88. Figure 5 As shown, the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is less than the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. That is, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located closer to the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S than the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 overlaps with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 overlaps with the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. Figure 8 As shown, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 protrudes from the surface 70D2 on the second direction D2 side toward the second direction D2. The surface 88D2 on the second direction D2 side of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The surface 88D2 on the second direction D2 side is planar. The surface 88D2 on the second direction D2 side is formed to allow surface contact with the stop plate 100 (more specifically, the second contact surface 104 described later). In addition, the surface 88D2 on the second direction D2 side may also be inclined relative to the axial direction of the output shaft 15, or may be formed with a groove.

[0043] like Figure 1As shown, the clutch spring 25 is housed in the spring housing portion 84. The clutch spring 25 exerts a force on the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center sleeve 40. That is, the clutch spring 25 exerts a force on the pressure plate 70 in a first direction D1. The clutch spring 25 is, for example, a helical spring formed by winding spring steel into a spiral shape. The clutch spring 25 is, for example, formed in a cylindrical shape. The end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1 contacts the pressure plate 70. More specifically, the end 25A in the first direction D1 contacts the retaining surface 84A of the spring housing portion 84. The end 25B of the clutch spring 25 in the second direction D2 contacts the stop plate 100. More specifically, the end 25B in the second direction D2 contacts the first contact surface 102 of the stop plate 100, which will be described later. Figure 13 As shown, since the end 25B of the second direction D2 contacts the first contact surface 102, which is inclined toward the second direction D2 as it moves from the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side to the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side, an application is made to the pressure plate 70. Figure 13 The force is directed in the direction of arrow F1. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the transition from the clutch disengaged state (clutch cut-off state), i.e., the input-side rotating plate 20 and output-side rotating plate 22 separating without transmitting the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15, to the clutch engaged state (clutch connected state), i.e., the input-side rotating plate 20 and output-side rotating plate 22 pressing together and transmitting the rotational driving force of the input shaft to the output shaft 15, whereby the pressure plate 70 suddenly approaches the clutch center sleeve 40. Furthermore, in the clutch device 10 according to this embodiment, sudden contact between the center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A and the pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface 90A, preventing sudden clutch engagement, can be suppressed. The same applies to the third, fifth, and sixth embodiments described later.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the stop plate 100 is configured to contact the pressure plate 70. The stop plate 100 is formed by bending a steel plate of uniform thickness. The stop plate 100 is a component that prevents the pressure plate 70 from moving away from the clutch center sleeve 40 in the second direction D2 by a predetermined distance. For example, when the pressure plate 70 moves away from the clutch center sleeve 40 in the second direction D2 due to the action of the pressure plate-side sliding cam surface 90S and the center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S during deceleration, or when the pressure plate 70 moves in the second direction D2 due to the driver's clutch operation, the pressure plate 70 contacts the stop plate 100. Furthermore, when the pressure plate 70 contacts the stop plate 100, the pressure plate-side protrusion 88 contacts the stop plate 100 first. The stop plate 100 is fixed to the clutch center sleeve 40. The stop plate 100 is fixed to the boss portion 54 of the clutch center sleeve 40 by bolts 28. The stop plate 100 is fastened and fixed to the boss 54 of the clutch center sleeve 40 by bolts 28 with the clutch spring 25 housed in the spring housing portion 84. The stop plate 100 is formed in a ring shape in the top view.

[0045] like Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown, the stop plate 100 includes an inclined portion 101 and a flat portion 103. The inclined portions 101 and flat portions 103 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, three inclined portions 101 and three flat portions 103 are alternately continuous. Figure 13 As shown, the inclined portion 101 has a first contact surface 102 provided on the surface 100D1 on the first direction D1 side of the stop plate 100. The first contact surface 102 is an example of a contact surface. The first contact surface 102 is inclined in the circumferential direction S. The first contact surface 102 is formed to be inclined in the second direction D2 as it moves from the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side to the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side. The first contact surface 102 contacts the end 25B of the clutch spring 25 in the second direction D2. Figure 14 As shown, the planar portion 103 has a second contact surface 104 provided on the surface 100D1 of the stop plate 100 in the first direction D1. The second contact surface 104 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The second contact surface 104 is configured to make surface contact with the pressure plate side protrusion 88 of the pressure plate 70. Thus, when the pressure plate moves in the second direction D2 and contacts the stop plate 100, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 of the pressure plate 70 makes surface contact with the second contact surface 104 of the stop plate 100, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate 100 from the pressure plate 70.

[0046] like Figure 9 As shown, a first through hole 111 and a second through hole 112 are formed in the stop plate 100. The first through holes 111 and the second through holes 112 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, three first through holes 111 and three second through holes 112 are arranged alternately. The diameter of the first through hole 111 is larger than the diameter of the second through hole 112. When the clutch center sleeve 40 is installed on the output shaft 15 and the nut 15B is tightened, the first through hole 111 is a hole for inserting a tool to prevent the clutch center sleeve 40 from rotating together with the nut 15B. The second through hole 112 is a hole for inserting the bolt 28.

[0047] As described above, in the clutch device 10 according to this embodiment, the first contact surface 102 of the stop plate 100 is inclined in the circumferential direction S and contacts the end 25B of the clutch spring 25 in the second direction D2. This prevents the pressure plate 70 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 40 and reduces the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration. Furthermore, the clutch device 10 includes a pressure plate-side protrusion 88 that can make surface contact with the stop plate 100. Thus, the pressure plate 70 and the stop plate 100 make surface contact via the pressure plate-side protrusion 88, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate 100 from the pressure plate 70 and preventing damage to the stop plate 100. Moreover, since the pressure plate-side protrusion 88 is provided on the pressure plate 70, its formation is easy.

[0048] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is provided in the portion of the pressure plate 70 on the second direction D2 side surface 70D2 adjacent to the spring receiving portion 84. According to the above method, damage to the stop plate 100 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0049] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, when viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 overlaps with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. According to this method, the rigidity of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can be improved.

[0050] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, when viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 overlaps with the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. According to this method, the rigidity of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can be improved.

[0051] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located in the circumferential direction S between the spring receiving portion 84 and the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. According to the above method, the space between the spring receiving portion 84 and the pressure plate side cam hole 73H can be effectively utilized, and the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can be compactly arranged.

[0052] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, when viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the radial length LP1 of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is greater than the circumferential length LP2 of the pressure plate side protrusion 88. According to the above method, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can be compactly arranged, and the contact area between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the stop plate 100 can be increased.

[0053] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the first contact surface 102 is formed to tilt in the second direction D2 as it moves from the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side to the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side. According to the above method, when changing from the clutch disengaged state to the clutch engaged state, the component force F1 of the clutch spring 25 can be used to prevent the pressure plate 70 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 40, and can also prevent the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A from suddenly contacting the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90S, thus preventing the clutch from suddenly engaging.

[0054] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is smaller than the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. According to the above method, the load applied to the stop plate 100 from the pressure plate 70 is dispersed, and damage to the stop plate 100 can be suppressed.

[0055] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the surface 88D2 on the second direction D2 side of the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. According to the above method, the axial load of the output shaft 15 is mainly applied to the stop plate 100 from the pressure plate 70, thereby more reliably suppressing the breakage of the stop plate 100.

[0056] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, when viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the circle CL1 centered on the axis 15C of the output shaft 15 and passing through the center 84C of the spring receiving portion 84 overlaps with the pressure plate side protrusion 88. According to the above method, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can be compactly arranged.

[0057] <Second Implementation> Figure 15 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve 40, pressure plate 270, and stop plate 200 according to the second embodiment. Figure 15 As shown, the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is less than the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. That is, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located closer to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A than the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located closer to the second circumferential direction S2 than the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. The pressure plate side protrusion 88 is located closer to the first circumferential direction S1 than the spring receiving portion 84. In this embodiment, the first contact surface 102 is formed to be inclined in the second direction D2 as it moves from the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A.

[0058] like Figure 15As shown, the end 25B in the second direction D2 contacts the first contact surface 102, which tilts towards the second direction D2 as it moves from the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side to the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side, thereby applying pressure to the pressure plate 270. Figure 15 The force is directed in the direction of arrow F2. During rapid acceleration, the component force F2 of the clutch spring 25 can bring the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side closer to the auxiliary cam surface 60A on the center sleeve side, thus reducing the feeling of freewheeling. The same applies to the fourth embodiment described later.

[0059] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the first contact surface 102 can also be formed to tilt in the second direction D2 as it moves from the sliding cam surface 90S on the pressure plate side to the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side. According to this method, during rapid acceleration, the component force F2 of the clutch spring 25 can be used to bring the auxiliary cam surface 90A on the pressure plate side closer to the auxiliary cam surface 60A on the center sleeve side, thus reducing the feeling of freewheeling. This structure and effect are preferred in models requiring acceleration performance.

[0060] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is smaller than the circumferential distance S between the pressure plate side protrusion 88 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. According to the above method, the load applied to the stop plate 200 from the pressure plate 270 is dispersed, and damage to the stop plate 200 can be suppressed.

[0061] <Third Implementation Method> Figure 16 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve 40, pressure plate 370, and stop plate 300 according to the third embodiment. Figure 16As shown, the stop plate 300 includes a stop plate side protrusion 388. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is configured to make surface contact with the pressure plate 370. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is also configured to make surface contact with the surface 70D2 of the pressure plate 370 on the second direction D2 side. When the pressure plate 370 contacts the stop plate 300, the stop plate side protrusion 388 contacts the pressure plate 370 first. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is provided on the surface 100D1 of the stop plate 300 on the first direction D1 side. Here, the stop plate side protrusion 388 is provided in the portion of the surface 100D1 of the stop plate 300 on the first direction D1 side adjacent to the first contact surface 102. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is provided on the flat portion 103. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is located on the first circumferential S1 side closer to the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is located on the second circumferential S2 side, which is closer to the spring receiving portion 84. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is, for example, generally rectangular. Alternatively, the stop plate side protrusion 388 may be circular or elliptical. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, for example, the radial length of the stop plate side protrusion 388 is greater than its circumferential S length. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the circle CL1 centered on the axis 15C of the output shaft 15 and passing through the center 84C of the spring receiving portion 84 overlaps with the stop plate side protrusion 388. The circumferential S distance between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is less than the circumferential S distance between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. That is, the stop plate side protrusion 388 is located on the side closer to the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S than the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the stop plate side protrusion 388 overlaps with the pressure plate side cam portion 90. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the stop plate side protrusion 388 overlaps with the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The stop plate side protrusion 388 protrudes in a first direction D1. The stop plate side protrusion 388 protrudes from the surface 100D1 on the first direction D1 side in the first direction D1 direction D1. The surface 388D1 on the first direction D1 side of the stop plate side protrusion 388 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The surface 388D1 on the first direction D1 side is planar. The surface 388D1 on the first direction D1 side is formed to allow surface contact with the pressure plate 370. Furthermore, the surface 388D1 on the first direction D1 side may also be inclined relative to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. Additionally, the pressure plate 370 differs from the pressure plate 70 in that it does not have a pressure plate side protrusion 88.

[0062] According to the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the first contact surface 102 of the stop plate 300 is inclined in the circumferential direction S and contacts the end 25B of the clutch spring 25 in the second direction D2. This prevents the pressure plate 370 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 40. Furthermore, the clutch device 10 includes a stop plate-side protrusion 388 that can make surface contact with the pressure plate 370. Thus, the pressure plate 370 and the stop plate 300 make surface contact via the stop plate-side protrusion 388, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate 300 from the pressure plate 370 and preventing damage to the stop plate 300. Moreover, since the stop plate-side protrusion 388 is provided on the stop plate 300, compared to the case where the protrusion is provided on the pressure plate 370, the pressure plate 370 can be made lighter, and the circumferential and axial movement speeds of the pressure plate 370 can be increased.

[0063] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the stop plate side protrusion 388 is provided in the portion of the surface 100D1 on the first direction D1 side of the stop plate 300 adjacent to the first contact surface 102. According to the above method, damage to the stop plate 300 can be suppressed more reliably.

[0064] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S is smaller than the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A. According to the above method, the load applied to the stop plate 300 from the pressure plate 370 can be dispersed, and damage to the stop plate 300 can be suppressed.

[0065] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the surface 388D1 on the first direction D1 side of the stop plate side protrusion 388 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. According to the above method, the axial load of the output shaft is mainly applied to the stop plate 300 from the pressure plate 370, thereby more reliably suppressing the breakage of the stop plate 300.

[0066] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, when viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the circle CL1 centered on the axis of the output shaft 15 and passing through the center 84C of the spring receiving portion 84 overlaps with the stop plate side protrusion 388. According to the above method, the stop plate side protrusion 388 can be compactly arranged.

[0067] <Fourth Implementation> Figure 17 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve 40, pressure plate 370, and stop plate 400 according to the fourth embodiment. Figure 17As shown, the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is less than the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. That is, the stop plate side protrusion 388 is located closer to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A than the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is located closer to the second circumferential direction S2 than the pressure plate side cam hole 73H. The stop plate side protrusion 388 is located closer to the first circumferential direction S1 than the spring receiving portion 84.

[0068] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A is smaller than the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 388 and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S. According to the above method, the load applied to the stop plate 400 from the pressure plate 370 is dispersed, and damage to the stop plate 400 can be suppressed.

[0069] <Fifth Implementation> Figure 18 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve 540, pressure plate 570, and stop plate 500 according to the fifth embodiment. The clutch device 10 according to the fifth embodiment is a so-called external cutting clutch device.

[0070] like Figure 18 As shown, the clutch center sleeve 540 is located on the side of the pressure plate 570 closer to the first direction D1. The clutch center sleeve 540 is positioned between the pressure plate 570 and the stop plate 500 in direction D. The clutch center sleeve 540 includes a spring receiving portion 584. The spring receiving portion 584 is formed on the center sleeve side cam portion 60. The spring receiving portion 584 is formed to be recessed from the first direction D1 toward the second direction D2. The spring receiving portion 584 is an example of a receiving portion.

[0071] like Figure 18As shown, the clutch center sleeve 540 includes a center sleeve-side protrusion 548. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is configured to make surface contact with the stop plate 500. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is configured to make surface contact with the second contact surface 504 of the stop plate 500. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located on the surface 540D1 of the clutch center sleeve 540 on the first direction D1 side. Here, the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located in the portion of the surface 540D1 of the clutch center sleeve 540 on the first direction D1 side, adjacent to the spring receiving portion 584. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located between the spring receiving portion 584 and the center sleeve-side cam hole 43H in the circumferential direction S. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side, which is closer to the center sleeve-side cam hole 43H. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located on the first circumferential direction S1 side, which is closer to the spring receiving portion 584. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located radially outward from the output shaft retaining portion 50. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located radially inward from the flange 68. The position and shape of the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 are the same as those of the pressure plate-side protrusion 88. The circumferential distance S between the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 and the center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S is less than the circumferential distance S between the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 and the center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A. That is, the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 is located closer to the center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S than the center sleeve-side auxiliary cam surface 60A. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 overlaps with the center sleeve-side cam portion 60. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the center sleeve-side protrusion 548 overlaps with the center sleeve-side sliding cam surface 60S. The center sleeve-side protrusion 548 protrudes in the first direction D1. The center sleeve side protrusion 548 protrudes from the surface 540D1 on the first direction D1 side toward the first direction D1. The surface 548D1 on the first direction D1 side of the center sleeve side protrusion 548 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The surface 548D1 on the first direction D1 side is planar. The surface 548D1 on the first direction D1 side is formed to allow surface contact with the stop plate 500. Alternatively, the surface 548D1 on the first direction D1 side may also be inclined relative to the axial direction of the output shaft 15.

[0072] like Figure 18 As shown, the pressure plate 570 has a boss portion 554. The boss portion 554 extends toward the clutch center sleeve 540 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The boss portion 554 is provided on the pressure plate side cam portion 90. The boss portion 554 is located between the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface 90A and the pressure plate side sliding cam surface 90S in the rotation direction S.

[0073] like Figure 18As shown, the end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1 contacts the stop plate 100. More specifically, the end 25A in the first direction D1 contacts the first contact surface 502 of the stop plate 100. The end 25B of the clutch spring 25 in the second direction D2 contacts the clutch center sleeve 540. More specifically, the end 25B in the second direction D2 contacts the retaining surface 84A of the spring receiving portion 584.

[0074] like Figure 18 As shown, the stop plate 500 is located on the side closer to the clutch center sleeve 540 in the first direction D1. The stop plate 500 is configured to contact the clutch center sleeve 540. The stop plate 500 is a component that prevents the pressure plate 570 from moving away from the clutch center sleeve 540 in the second direction D2 by a predetermined distance. The stop plate 500 is fixed to the pressure plate 570. The stop plate 500 is fixed to the boss portion 554 of the pressure plate 570 by bolts 28. With the clutch spring 25 housed in the spring housing portion 584, the stop plate 500 is fastened and fixed to the boss portion 554 of the pressure plate 570 by bolts 28.

[0075] like Figure 18 As shown, the stop plate 500 includes an inclined portion 501 and a flat portion 503. The inclined portions 501 and flat portions 503 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction S. In this embodiment, three inclined portions 501 and three flat portions 503 are alternately continuous. The inclined portion 501 has a first contact surface 502 provided on a surface 500D2 on the second direction D2 side of the stop plate 500. The first contact surface 502 is an example of a contact surface. The first contact surface 502 is inclined in the circumferential direction S. The first contact surface 502 is formed to be inclined in the first direction D1 as it moves from the auxiliary cam surface 60A on the center sleeve side to the sliding cam surface 60S on the center sleeve side. The first contact surface 502 contacts the end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1. The flat portion 503 has a second contact surface 504 provided on a surface 500D2 on the second direction D2 side of the stop plate 500. The second contact surface 504 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The second contact surface 504 is configured to make surface contact with the center sleeve side protrusion 548 of the clutch center sleeve 540. Thus, when the pressure plate moves in the second direction D2 and the stop plate 500 contacts the clutch center sleeve 540, the center sleeve side protrusion 548 of the clutch center sleeve 540 makes surface contact with the second contact surface 504 of the stop plate 500, thereby dispersing the load applied to the moving plate 500 from the clutch center sleeve 540.

[0076] As described above, in the clutch device 10 according to this embodiment, the first contact surface 502 of the stop plate 500 is inclined in the circumferential direction S and contacts the end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1. This prevents the pressure plate 570 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 540 and reduces the feeling of freewheeling during rapid acceleration. Furthermore, the clutch device 10 includes a center sleeve-side protrusion 548 that can make surface contact with the stop plate 500. Thus, the clutch center sleeve 540 and the stop plate 500 make surface contact via the center sleeve-side protrusion 548, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate 500 from the clutch center sleeve 540 and preventing damage to the stop plate 500.

[0077] The clutch device 10 of this embodiment includes a center sleeve side protrusion 548. According to the above method, it is possible to prevent the pressure plate 570 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 540, and it is possible to prevent the stop plate 500 from breaking.

[0078] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the center sleeve side protrusion 548 is provided in the portion of the clutch center sleeve 540 on the surface 540D1 on the first direction D1 side, adjacent to the spring receiving portion 584. According to the above method, damage to the stop plate 500 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0079] <Sixth Implementation Method> Figure 19 This is a cross-sectional view showing the assembled state of the clutch center sleeve 640, pressure plate 570, and stop plate 600 according to the sixth embodiment. Figure 19As shown, the stop plate 600 includes a stop plate side protrusion 688. The stop plate side protrusion 688 is configured to make surface contact with the clutch center sleeve 640. The stop plate side protrusion 688 is configured to make surface contact with the first direction D1 side surface 540D1 of the clutch center sleeve 640. The stop plate side protrusion 688 is provided on the second direction D2 side surface 500D2 of the stop plate 600. Here, the stop plate side protrusion 688 is provided in the portion of the second direction D2 side surface 500D2 of the stop plate 600 adjacent to the first contact surface 502. The stop plate side protrusion 688 is provided on the flat portion 503. The stop plate side protrusion 688 is, for example, formed in a generally rectangular shape. Alternatively, the stop plate side protrusion 688 may also be formed in a circular or elliptical shape. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, for example, the radial length of the stop plate side protrusion 688 is greater than the circumferential length S of the stop plate side protrusion 688. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, the circle CL1 centered on the axis 15C of the output shaft 15 and passing through the center 84C of the spring receiving portion 584 overlaps with the stop plate side protrusion 688. The circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 688 and the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S is less than the circumferential distance S between the stop plate side protrusion 688 and the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. That is, the stop plate side protrusion 688 is located on the side closer to the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S than the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the stop plate side protrusion 688 overlaps with the center sleeve side cam portion 60. When viewed axially from the output shaft 15, at least a portion of the stop plate side protrusion 688 overlaps with the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S. The stop plate side protrusion 688 protrudes in the second direction D2. The stop plate side protrusion 688 protrudes from the surface 500D2 on the second direction D2 side in the second direction D2 direction D2 direction D2 direction D2 direction D2 direction D2 surface 688D2 is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The surface 688D2 on the second direction D2 side direction D2 ...

[0080] As described above, in the clutch device 10 according to this embodiment, the first contact surface 502 of the stop plate 600 is inclined in the circumferential direction S and contacts the end 25A of the clutch spring 25 in the first direction D1. This prevents the pressure plate 570 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 540. Furthermore, the clutch device 10 includes a stop plate-side protrusion 688 that can make surface contact with the clutch center sleeve 540. Thus, the clutch center sleeve 540 and the stop plate 600 make surface contact via the stop plate-side protrusion 688, thereby dispersing the load applied to the stop plate 600 from the clutch center sleeve 540 and preventing damage to the stop plate 600.

[0081] The clutch device 10 of this embodiment includes a stop plate side protrusion 688. According to the above method, it is possible to prevent the pressure plate 570 from suddenly approaching the clutch center sleeve 540 and to prevent damage to the stop plate 600.

[0082] In the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the stop plate side protrusion 688 is provided in the portion of the surface 500D2 on the second direction D2 side of the stop plate 600 adjacent to the first contact surface 502. According to the above method, damage to the stop plate 600 can be more reliably suppressed.

[0083] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the above embodiments are merely illustrative, and the present invention can be implemented in various other ways.

[0084] In the first and second embodiments described above, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 is adjacent to the farthest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 102, but it can also be adjacent to the nearest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 102. For example, as... Figure 13 As shown, the pressure plate side protrusion 88 can also be located on the first circumferential S1 side, which is closer to the spring receiving part 84.

[0085] In the third and fourth embodiments described above, the stop plate side protrusion 388 is adjacent to the farthest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 102, but it can also be adjacent to the nearest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 102. For example, as Figure 16 As shown, the stop plate side protrusion 388 can also be located on the first circumferential S1 side, which is closer to the spring receiving part 84.

[0086] In the fifth embodiment described above, the central sleeve-side protrusion 548 is adjacent to the farthest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 502, but it can also be adjacent to the nearest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 502. For example, as... Figure 18 As shown, the central sleeve side protrusion 548 can also be located on the second circumferential S2 side, which is closer to the spring receiving part 584.

[0087] In the sixth embodiment described above, the stop plate side protrusion 688 is adjacent to the farthest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 502, but it can also be adjacent to the nearest portion in direction D of the first contact surface 502. For example, as Figure 19 As shown, the stop plate side protrusion 688 can also be located on the second circumferential S2 side, which is closer to the spring receiving part 584.

[0088] In the fifth and sixth embodiments described above, the first contact surface 502 is formed to be inclined in the first direction D1 as it moves from the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A to the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S, but this is not a limitation. For example, the first contact surface 502 may also be formed to be inclined in the first direction D1 as it moves from the center sleeve side sliding cam surface 60S to the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A. In this case, the center sleeve side protrusion 548 and the stop plate side protrusion 688 may also be located on the center sleeve side auxiliary cam surface 60A side (for example, on the second circumferential S2 side, closer than the spring receiving portion 584).

[0089] In the above embodiments, a portion of the output-side rotating plate 22 is held by spline engagement with the center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47 and spline groove 48 of the clutch center sleeve 40, and another portion of the output-side rotating plate 22 is held by the pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 of the pressure plate 70, but is not limited thereto. For example, it may be configured such that the pressure plate-side engagement teeth 77 hold the entire output-side rotating plate 22. In this case, the clutch center sleeve 40 does not have a component corresponding to the center sleeve-side engagement teeth 47. Symbol Explanation

[0090] 10. Clutch assembly 15 Output shaft 20 Input side rotating plate 22 Output side rotating plate 25 Clutch Spring 25A End in the first direction 25B End in the second direction 30 Clutch housing 40 Clutch center sleeve 60 Center sleeve side cam section 60A Center Sleeve Side Auxiliary Cam Surface 60S center sleeve side sliding cam surface 70 pressure plate 73H Pressure plate side cam hole (through hole) 84 Spring housing section (housing section) 88. Protrusion on the side of the pressure plate 90 Pressure plate side cam section 90A Pressure Plate Side Auxiliary Cam Surface 90S pressure plate side sliding cam surface 100 stop plate 102 First contact surface (contact surface) 104 Second contact surface.

Claims

1. A clutch device for transmitting or disengaging rotational driving force from an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: The clutch center sleeve is housed in a clutch housing that holds multiple input-side rotating plates that are rotated via the input shaft, and rotates together with the output shaft. The pressure plate is configured to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center sleeve and to rotate relative to it, while maintaining a plurality of output side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate, and is able to press the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is defined as a first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center sleeve is defined as a second direction, the clutch spring applies a force to the pressure plate in the first direction. as well as A stop plate, fixed to the clutch center sleeve, is configured to contact the pressure plate and prevent the pressure plate from moving away from the clutch center sleeve by a predetermined distance in the second direction. The first end of the clutch spring contacts the pressure plate, and the second end of the clutch spring contacts the stop plate. The pressure plate has a receiving portion that is recessed from the second direction toward the first direction and houses the clutch spring. The stop plate has a contact surface, which is disposed on the surface of the stop plate in the first direction, is inclined in the circumferential direction, and contacts the end of the clutch spring in the second direction. The clutch device has a stop plate side protrusion or a pressure plate side protrusion. The stop plate side protrusion is provided on the surface of the stop plate in the first direction and protrudes in the first direction and can make surface contact with the pressure plate. The pressure plate side protrusion is provided on the surface of the pressure plate in the second direction and protrudes in the second direction and can make surface contact with the stop plate.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, The clutch assembly includes the pressure plate side protrusion.

3. The clutch device according to claim 2, wherein, The pressure plate side protrusion is located in the portion of the pressure plate adjacent to the receiving portion on the second direction side surface.

4. The clutch device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The pressure plate has multiple pressure plate-side cam portions, each having a pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface and a pressure plate-side sliding cam surface. When rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve, the pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface generates a force from the pressure plate toward the clutch center sleeve, increasing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. The pressure plate-side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to move away from the clutch center sleeve, reducing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. When viewed axially from the output shaft, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion overlaps with the pressure plate side cam portion.

5. The clutch device according to claim 4, wherein, When viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft, at least a portion of the pressure plate side protrusion overlaps with the pressure plate side sliding cam surface.

6. The clutch device according to claim 2 or 3, wherein, The pressure plate has a through hole extending along the axial direction of the output shaft. The pressure plate side protrusion is located in the circumferential direction between the receiving part and the through hole.

7. The clutch device according to claim 6, wherein, When viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft, the radial length of the pressure plate side protrusion is greater than the circumferential length of the pressure plate side protrusion.

8. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, The clutch assembly includes the protrusion on the side of the stop plate.

9. The clutch device according to claim 8, wherein, The protrusion on the stop plate side is located on the surface of the stop plate in the first direction side, adjacent to the contact surface.

10. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, The pressure plate has multiple pressure plate-side cam portions, each having a pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface and a pressure plate-side sliding cam surface. When rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve, the pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface generates a force from the pressure plate toward the clutch center sleeve, increasing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. The pressure plate-side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to move away from the clutch center sleeve, reducing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. The receiving portion is formed on the cam portion of the pressure plate side. The contact surface is formed to tilt in the second direction as it slides from the pressure plate side cam surface to the pressure plate side auxiliary cam surface.

11. The clutch device according to claim 10, wherein, The circumferential distance between the protrusion on the stop plate side or the protrusion on the pressure plate side and the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side is less than the circumferential distance between the protrusion on the stop plate side or the protrusion on the pressure plate side and the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side.

12. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, The pressure plate has multiple pressure plate-side cam portions, each having a pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface and a pressure plate-side sliding cam surface. When rotating relative to the clutch center sleeve, the pressure plate-side auxiliary cam surface generates a force from the pressure plate toward the clutch center sleeve, increasing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. The pressure plate-side sliding cam surface causes the pressure plate to move away from the clutch center sleeve, reducing the pressing force between the input-side rotating plate and the output-side rotating plate. The receiving portion is formed on the cam portion of the pressure plate side. The contact surface is formed to tilt in the second direction as it moves from the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side to the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side.

13. The clutch device according to claim 12, wherein, The circumferential distance between the protrusion on the stop plate side or the protrusion on the pressure plate side and the sliding cam surface on the pressure plate side is less than the circumferential distance between the protrusion on the stop plate side or the protrusion on the pressure plate side and the auxiliary cam surface on the pressure plate side.

14. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, When the pressure plate side protrusion is provided, the second-direction side surface of the pressure plate side protrusion is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft. When the stop plate side protrusion is provided, the surface of the stop plate side protrusion on the first direction side is orthogonal to the axial direction of the output shaft.

15. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein, When viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft, the circle centered on the axis of the output shaft and passing through the center of the receiving part overlaps with the pressure plate side protrusion or the stop plate side protrusion.

16. A clutch device for transmitting or disengaging rotational driving force from an input shaft to an output shaft, the clutch device comprising: The clutch center sleeve is housed in a clutch housing that holds multiple input-side rotating plates that are rotated via the input shaft, and rotates together with the output shaft. The pressure plate is configured to be able to approach or move away from the clutch center sleeve and to rotate relative to it, while maintaining a plurality of output side rotating plates that are alternately arranged with the input side rotating plate, and is able to press the input side rotating plate and the output side rotating plate. When the direction in which the pressure plate approaches the clutch center sleeve is defined as a first direction and the direction in which the pressure plate moves away from the clutch center sleeve is defined as a second direction, the clutch spring applies a force to the pressure plate in the first direction. as well as A stop plate, fixed to the pressure plate and configured to contact the clutch center sleeve, prevents the pressure plate from moving away from the clutch center sleeve by a predetermined distance in the second direction. The first end of the clutch spring contacts the stop plate, and the second end of the clutch spring contacts the clutch center sleeve. The clutch center sleeve has a receiving portion, which is recessed from the first direction toward the second direction and houses the clutch spring. The stop plate has a contact surface, which is disposed on the surface of the stop plate on the second direction side, is inclined in the circumferential direction, and contacts the end of the clutch spring in the first direction. The clutch device has a stop plate side protrusion or a center sleeve side protrusion. The stop plate side protrusion is provided on the surface of the stop plate in the second direction and protrudes in the second direction, and can make surface contact with the clutch center sleeve. The center sleeve side protrusion is provided on the surface of the clutch center sleeve in the first direction and protrudes in the first direction, and can make surface contact with the stop plate.

17. The clutch device according to claim 16, wherein, The clutch assembly includes the center sleeve side protrusion.

18. The clutch device according to claim 17, wherein, The center sleeve side protrusion is located on the surface of the clutch center sleeve in the first direction side, adjacent to the receiving portion.

19. The clutch device according to claim 16, wherein, The clutch assembly includes the protrusion on the side of the stop plate.

20. The clutch device according to claim 19, wherein, The protrusion on the stop plate side is located on the surface of the stop plate in the second direction side, adjacent to the contact surface.

Images