Clutch device

Abstract

To facilitate an assembly of a clutch plate when assembled to a first rotation member.SOLUTION: A first rotation member includes a first cylindrical part and a first projection part. The first cylindrical part includes a plurality of first outer teeth. The first projection part projects in an axial direction from the first teeth. A second rotation member includes a second cylindrical part. The second cylindrical part includes second outer teeth. The second cylindrical part is provided adjacent to the first rotation member in an axial direction. A first end clutch plate includes first inner teeth that engage with the first outer teeth. A first end clutch plate is attached to a first proximal end of the first cylindrical part. A second end clutch plate includes second inner teeth and a first missed teeth part. The second inner teeth engage with the second outer teeth. The first missed teeth part overlaps with the first projection part when viewed in an axial direction. The second end clutch plate is attached to a second proximal end of the second cylindrical part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] For example, in motorcycles such as motorcycles and buggies, a clutch device is used to transmit or cut off the power from the engine to the transmission. This clutch device has a clutch housing connected to the crankshaft side of the engine, a clutch center connected to the transmission side, a clutch portion for transmitting and cutting off power between them, and a pressure plate for pressing the clutch portion.

[0003] As this type of clutch device, the clutch device described in Patent Document 1 has been proposed. This clutch device has a plurality of clutch plates that are axially movable and non-rotatable relative to the clutch center.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the clutch device of Patent Document 1, the clutch center and the clutch plate are coupled by a spline. That is, a plurality of external teeth formed on the clutch center and a plurality of internal teeth formed on the clutch plate mesh with each other.

[0006] In such a configuration, when assembling the clutch plate into the clutch center, if the clutch plate is inclined with respect to the axial end face of the clutch center, the inner teeth of the clutch plate will engage with the outer teeth of the clutch center, making assembly difficult.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to facilitate the assembly of the clutch plate when assembling it to the first rotating member.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0008] The clutch device according to the first aspect includes a first rotating member, a second rotating member, a first end clutch plate, and a second end clutch plate. The first rotating member has a first cylindrical portion and a first protruding portion. The first cylindrical portion includes a plurality of first outer teeth extending in the axial direction. The first protruding portion protrudes axially from the first outer teeth. The second rotating member has a second cylindrical portion. The second cylindrical portion includes second outer teeth extending in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion is arranged to be adjacent to the first rotating member in the axial direction. The first end clutch plate has first inner teeth that mesh with the first outer teeth. The first end clutch plate is attached to a first proximal end portion of the first cylindrical portion close to the second cylindrical portion. The second end clutch plate has second inner teeth and a first tooth missing portion. The second inner teeth mesh with the second outer teeth. The first tooth missing portion overlaps the first protruding portion in the axial view. The second end clutch plate is attached to a second proximal end portion of the second cylindrical portion close to the first cylindrical portion.

[0009] According to this configuration, the first rotating member has the first protruding portion. Therefore, using this first protruding portion as a guide, the clutch plate can be attached to the first rotating member, and the first outer teeth and the first inner teeth can be engaged. For this reason, compared with the conventional clutch device, the assembly of the clutch plate to the first rotating member becomes easier. Also, since the second end clutch plate has the first tooth missing portion formed at a position that overlaps the first protruding portion in the axial view, even if the first protruding portion is lengthened, it will not interfere with the first end clutch plate. For this reason, the first protruding portion can be lengthened to make the assembly of the clutch plate to the first rotating member even easier.

[0010] The clutch device according to the second aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the first aspect. The second rotating member has a second protruding portion that protrudes axially from the second external teeth toward the first cylindrical portion. The first end clutch plate has a second toothless portion that overlaps with the second protruding portion in the axial direction view.

[0011] The clutch device according to the third aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the first or second aspect. The first rotating member is the clutch center. The second rotating member is the pressure plate.

[0012] The clutch device according to the fourth aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the first or second aspect. The first rotating member is the pressure plate. The second rotating member is the clutch center.

[0013] The clutch device according to the fifth aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any one of the first to fourth aspects. The first protruding portion extends within the first toothless portion.

[0014] The clutch device according to the sixth aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any one of the first to fifth aspects. The outer circumference of the first toothless portion has a diameter larger than the pitch circle diameter of the second internal teeth.

[0015] The clutch device according to the seventh aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating surface. The regulating surface faces the second cylindrical portion side in the axial direction. The first end clutch plate has a facing surface that faces the regulating surface.

[0016] The clutch device according to the eighth aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating groove formed at the tooth bottom. The first internal teeth have protruding internal teeth disposed in the regulating groove. The regulating groove extends axially at the first proximal end portion.

[0017] The clutch device according to the ninth aspect further includes an intermediate clutch plate in the clutch device according to the eighth aspect. The intermediate clutch plate has third internal teeth that mesh with the first external teeth. The intermediate clutch plate is attached to the first cylindrical portion. The intermediate clutch plate is arranged at an interval from the regulation groove in the axial direction.

[0018] The clutch device according to the tenth aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any one of the first to ninth aspects. The second cylindrical portion has opposing toothless portions. The opposing toothless portions are formed so as to oppose the first toothless portion in the radial direction. The first protruding portion is inserted into the space formed by the first toothless portion and the opposing toothless portions.

[0019] The clutch device according to the eleventh aspect is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the second aspect. The first cylindrical portion has opposing toothless portions. The opposing toothless portions are formed so as to oppose the second toothless portion in the radial direction. The second protruding portion is inserted into the space formed by the second toothless portion and the opposing toothless portions.

Advantages of the Invention

[0020] According to the present invention, when assembling the clutch plate to the first rotating member, the assembly can be facilitated.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0021]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

Figure 10

Figure 11

Figure 12

Figure 13

Figure 14

Figure 15

[0022] Hereinafter, the clutch device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the axial direction is the direction in which the rotation axis O of the clutch device 100 extends. The circumferential direction is the circumferential direction of a circle centered on the rotation axis O, and the radial direction is the radial direction of a circle centered on the rotation axis O. The first rotation direction is the direction in which the clutch device 100 rotates, and the second rotation direction is the rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0023] [Clutch Device] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the clutch device 100, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the clutch device 100 is configured to transmit the power from a drive source (for example, an engine) to a drive wheel or to cut off the transmission. The clutch device 100 is configured to transmit power in the first rotation direction R1 (counterclockwise in FIG. 1). The clutch device 100 is configured to be rotatable. Specifically, the clutch device 100 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 about the rotation axis O.

[0024] The clutch device 100 has a clutch housing 2, a clutch center 3 (an example of a first rotating member), a pressure plate 4 (an example of a second rotating member), a clutch portion 5, and a support plate 6. The clutch device 100 also has a plurality of bolts 8 and a plurality of coil springs 9.

[0025] [Clutch housing] As shown in FIG. 2, the clutch housing 2 has a disk portion 21 and a cylindrical portion 22. The clutch housing 2 is connected to the input gear 10. This input gear 10 is an annular member to which the power generated by an engine (not shown) is input. The input gear 10 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) fixed to the crankshaft on the engine side.

[0026] The disk portion 21 is connected to the input gear 10 via a plurality of coil springs (not shown). The cylindrical portion 22 extends from the outer peripheral edge portion of the disk portion 21 to the first side in the axial direction. The cylindrical portion 22 has a plurality of notches 221 extending in the axial direction. The plurality of notches 221 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction.

[0027] [Clutch center] FIG. 3 is a plan view of the clutch center 3 as viewed from the first side in the axial direction, FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the clutch center 3, and FIG. 5 is a sectional view taken along line V-V of FIG. 1. In FIG. 5, descriptions other than the clutch center 3, the pressure plate 4, the support plate 6, and the bolt 8 are omitted for ease of illustration.

[0028] As shown in FIG. 2, the clutch center 3 is arranged on the first side in the axial direction with respect to the clutch housing 2. Also, the clutch center 3 is arranged radially inward with respect to the cylindrical portion 22 of the clutch housing 2. The clutch center 3 is rotatably arranged about the rotation axis O. The clutch center 3 is configured to rotate relative to the clutch housing 2. The clutch center 3 is arranged so as not to move in the axial direction.

[0029] As shown in FIGS. 2 to 5, the clutch center 3 has a first boss portion 31, a plurality of base portions 32, a plurality of column portions 33, a plurality of concave portions 34, a plurality of guide portions 35, a first cylindrical portion 36, a first flange portion 37, and a pressure receiving surface 38.

[0030] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, the first boss portion 31 extends in the axial direction. The first boss portion 31 is cylindrical. The first boss portion 31 has a spline hole 31a extending in the axial direction at its central portion. An input shaft (not shown) of the transmission is spline-engaged with the spline hole 31a. In the axial direction, a thrust plate 14 is provided between the first boss portion 31 and the input gear 10.

[0031] Each base portion 32 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral surface of the first boss portion 31. Each base portion 32 is disposed radially outside the first boss portion 31. The base portions 32 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each base portion 32 is connected to the first cylindrical portion 36. Each base portion 32 has a first surface 321 facing the first side in the axial direction. The first surface 321 is orthogonal to the axial direction.

[0032] The column portion 33 extends from the first surface 321 of the base portion 32 to the first side in the axial direction. The column portion 33 is cylindrical. The column portion 33 has a screw hole 331 penetrating in the axial direction.

[0033] The concave portions 34 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The concave portions 34 are alternately arranged with the base portions 32 in the circumferential direction. The concave portion 34 is adjacent to the first surface 321 in the circumferential direction in an axial view. Each concave portion 34 opens to the first side in the axial direction. In the present embodiment, since each concave portion 34 penetrates in the axial direction, it also opens to the second side in the axial direction.

[0034] As shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, the clutch center 3 has a first cam surface 341 and a third cam surface 342. The first cam surface 341 and the third cam surface 342 define the side surface of the recess 34. Specifically, the first cam surface 341 and the third cam surface 342 define the circumferential side surface of the recess 34. The first cam surface 341 defines the side surface of the recess 34 on the first rotation direction R1 side. The third cam surface 342 defines the side surface of the recess 34 on the second rotation direction R2 side.

[0035] The first cam surface 341 faces the circumferential direction and is inclined so as to face the second side in the axial direction. Specifically, the first cam surface 341 faces the second rotation direction R2. The first cam surface 341 is connected to the first surface 321.

[0036] The third cam surface 342 faces the circumferential direction and is inclined so as to face the first side in the axial direction. Specifically, the third cam surface 342 faces the first rotation direction R1. The third cam surface 342 faces the opposite direction to the first cam surface 341. The third cam surface 342 is connected to the first surface 321.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 3 to 5, the guide portion 35 is formed on the first surface 321. The guide portion 35 is integrally formed with the base portion 32 by one member. In the circumferential direction, the guide portion 35 is adjacent to the column portion 33. The guide portion 35 is disposed on the second rotation direction R2 side with respect to the column portion 33. The guide portion 35 is connected to the column portion 33. According to this configuration, even if an attempt is made to attach the coil spring 9 to the column portion 33, the guide portion 35 interferes with the coil spring 9 and cannot be attached. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the coil spring 9 from being erroneously attached to the column portion 33. Note that the guide portion 35 is integrally formed with the column portion 33 by one member.

[0038] The first surface 321 extends in the circumferential direction from the first cam surface 341 to the third cam surface 342. The guide portion 35 is disposed on the first surface 321 extending from the first cam surface 341 to the third cam surface 342, on the side of the first cam surface 341. The guide portion 35 is disposed so as to overlap the first cam surface 341 in the axial direction view.

[0039] The guide portion 35 has a triangular shape in the radial direction view. The guide portion 35 has an inclined surface 351. The inclined surface 351 extends toward the recess 34. Specifically, the inclined surface 351 is inclined so as to face the circumferential direction and the first axial side. Note that the inclined surface 351 faces the second rotation direction R2 side.

[0040] As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the first cylindrical portion 36 extends in the axial direction. The first cylindrical portion 36 has a first proximal end portion 363 and a first distal end portion 364 in the axial direction. The first proximal end portion 363 is an end portion close to the second cylindrical portion 46 described later. The first distal end portion 364 is an end portion on the side opposite to the first proximal end portion 363. In the present embodiment, the first proximal end portion 363 is an end portion on the first axial side, and the first distal end portion 364 is an end portion on the second axial side.

[0041] The first cylindrical portion 36 has a plurality of first external teeth 361. Each first external tooth 361 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the first cylindrical portion 36. Each first external tooth 361 extends in the axial direction. Further, the first cylindrical portion 36 has a plurality of second opposing toothless portions 362. In the present embodiment, it has three second opposing toothless portions 362. The second opposing toothless portion 362 is a region where the first external tooth 361 is not formed. Except for the second opposing toothless portion 362, each first external tooth 361 is formed at a predetermined pitch. The second opposing toothless portions 362 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. The second opposing toothless portion 362 faces the second toothless portion 534 described later in the radial direction.

[0042] The first cylindrical portion 36 has a regulating groove 365. The regulating groove 365 is formed at the tooth root. The regulating groove 365 is formed at the first proximal end portion 363 of the first cylindrical portion 36. The regulating groove 365 extends axially from the first proximal end face of the first cylindrical portion 36. That is, the regulating groove 365 opens to the first side in the axial direction. The regulating groove 365 opens toward the second cylindrical portion 46 in the axial direction. Further, the regulating groove 365 penetrates in the radial direction. Note that the regulating groove 365 may open only to the outer side in the radial direction and may not open to the inner side in the radial direction.

[0043] The first cylindrical portion 36 has a regulating surface 366. The regulating surface 366 faces the second cylindrical portion 46 side in the axial direction. In the present embodiment, the regulating surface 366 faces the first side in the axial direction. The regulating surface 366 is formed radially inward of the tooth root. The regulating surface 366 is one of the surfaces that define the regulating groove 365.

[0044] The first cylindrical portion 36 has a plurality of first protruding portions 367. In the present embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 36 has three first protruding portions 367. The first protruding portions 367 protrude axially from the first external teeth 361. The first protruding portions 367 protrude toward the second cylindrical portion 46. That is, the first protruding portions 367 protrude to the first side in the axial direction.

[0045] The first cylindrical portion 36 is disposed radially outside at intervals with respect to each base portion 32. For this reason, a valley portion 301 extending in the circumferential direction is formed between each base portion 32 and the first cylindrical portion 36. Note that the first cylindrical portion 36 is connected to the second side end portion in the axial direction of each base portion 32.

[0046] The first flange portion 37 extends radially outward from the first cylindrical portion 36. Specifically, the first flange portion 37 extends radially outward from the second side end portion in the axial direction of the first cylindrical portion 36. The surface facing the first side in the axial direction of the first flange portion 37 becomes the pressure receiving surface 38. That is, the pressure receiving surface 38 faces the first side in the axial direction. The pressure receiving surface 38 is annular and extends in the circumferential direction. The pressure receiving surface 38 is disposed on the outer peripheral portion of the clutch center 3.

[0047] [Pressure plate] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the pressure plate 4 as viewed from the second side in the axial direction, and FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the pressure plate 4 as viewed from the first side in the axial direction. As shown in FIGS. 2, 5, 6, and 7, the pressure plate 4 is arranged to be axially movable. That is, the pressure plate 4 is axially relatively movable with respect to the clutch center 3. The pressure plate 4 is rotatably arranged about the rotation axis O. The pressure plate 4 is relatively rotatable with respect to the clutch center 3 within a predetermined range. The pressure plate 4 is axially disposed between the clutch center 3 and the support plate 6.

[0048] The pressure plate 4 has a second boss portion 41, a plurality of convex portions 42, a plurality of connecting portions 43, a second flange portion 44, a pressing surface 45, and a second cylindrical portion 46.

[0049] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, the second boss portion 41 is cylindrical and extends in the axial direction. The second boss portion 41 is configured such that a release mechanism (not shown) can be attached. Each convex portion 42 is disposed radially outward with respect to the second boss portion 41.

[0050] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the convex portions 42 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. Each convex portion 42 is disposed within each concave portion 34. Each convex portion 42 projects toward the second side in the axial direction. Each convex portion 42 has a second surface 421 facing the second side in the axial direction. The second surface 421 constitutes the tip surface of each convex portion 42. That is, the second surface 421 is the end surface of each convex portion 42 on the second side in the axial direction.

[0051] As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, each convex portion 42 extends radially outward from the second boss portion 41. The convex portion 42 has a holding recess 424 configured to hold the coil spring 9. The holding recess 424 extends in the axial direction. The holding recess 424 opens to the first side in the axial direction.

[0052] As shown in FIG. 5, each convex portion 42 has a second cam surface 422 and a fourth cam surface 423. The second cam surface 422 and the fourth cam surface 423 define the side surface of the convex portion 42. Specifically, the second cam surface 422 and the fourth cam surface 423 define the circumferential side surface of the convex portion 42. The second cam surface 422 defines the side surface of the convex portion 42 on the first rotation direction R1 side. The fourth cam surface 423 defines the side surface of the convex portion 42 on the second rotation direction R2 side.

[0053] The second cam surface 422 faces the first cam surface 341. The second cam surface 422 faces the circumferential direction and is inclined so as to face the first side in the axial direction. Specifically, the second cam surface 422 faces the first rotation direction R1. The second cam surface 422 is connected to the second surface 421.

[0054] The fourth cam surface 423 faces the third cam surface 342. The fourth cam surface 423 faces the circumferential direction and is inclined so as to face the second side in the axial direction. Specifically, the fourth cam surface 423 faces the second rotation direction R2. The fourth cam surface 423 is connected to the second surface 421.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 6, the connecting portion 43 connects the respective convex portions 42. The connecting portion 43 extends in the circumferential direction between the base portion 32 and the first cylindrical portion 36. That is, the connecting portion 43 extends in the circumferential direction within the valley portion 301 (see FIG. 2).

[0056] The second flange portion 44 is disposed radially outward with respect to the convex portion 42 and the connecting portion 43. The surface of the second flange portion 44 facing the second side in the axial direction serves as the pressing surface 45. That is, the pressing surface 45 faces the second side in the axial direction. The pressing surface 45 is annular and extends in the circumferential direction. The pressing surface 45 is disposed on the outer peripheral portion of the pressure plate 4.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 5, the pressing surface 45 is disposed on the first side in the axial direction with respect to the pressure receiving surface 38. In the axial view, the pressing surface 45 overlaps the pressure receiving surface 38.

[0058] As shown in FIG. 6, the second cylindrical portion 46 extends from the inner peripheral end of the second flange portion 44 to the second side in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion 46 is arranged to be adjacent to the first cylindrical portion 36 in the axial direction. Note that the second cylindrical portion 46 is arranged at an interval from the first cylindrical portion 36 in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion 46 has a second proximal end portion 463 and a second distal end portion 464 in the axial direction. The second proximal end portion 463 is an end portion close to the first cylindrical portion 36, and the second distal end portion 464 is an end portion on the side opposite to the second proximal end portion 463. In the present embodiment, the second proximal end portion 463 is an end portion on the second side in the axial direction, and the second distal end portion 464 is an end portion on the first side in the axial direction.

[0059] The second cylindrical portion 46 has a plurality of second external teeth 461. Each second external tooth 461 is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the second cylindrical portion 46. Each second external tooth 461 extends in the axial direction. The dimensions of the second external teeth 461, except for the axial dimension, are the same as those of the first external teeth 361. The tip circle diameter of the second cylindrical portion 46 is the same as that of the first cylindrical portion 36. Also, the root circle diameter of the second cylindrical portion 46 is the same as that of the first cylindrical portion 36.

[0060] Further, the second cylindrical portion 46 has a plurality of first opposing toothless portions 462. The first opposing toothless portions 462 are regions where the second external teeth 461 are not formed. Note that, except for the first opposing toothless portions 462, each second external tooth 461 is formed at a predetermined pitch. The first opposing toothless portions 462 are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction. The first opposing toothless portions 462 face the first toothless portion 542, which will be described later, in the radial direction.

[0061] The second cylindrical portion 46 has a plurality of second protruding portions 465. Note that, in the present embodiment, the second cylindrical portion 46 has three second protruding portions 465. The second protruding portions 465 protrude axially from the second external teeth 461. The second protruding portions 465 protrude toward the first cylindrical portion 36. In the present embodiment, the second protruding portions 465 protrude toward the second side in the axial direction.

[0062] The second cylindrical portion 46 has a groove portion 466. The groove portion 466 is formed at the tooth bottom. The groove portion 466 extends in the axial direction. The groove portion 466 opens to the second side in the axial direction. That is, the groove portion 466 opens toward the first cylindrical portion 36.

[0063] [Clutch portion] As shown in FIG. 2, the clutch portion 5 is configured to transmit or cut off power between the clutch housing 2 and the clutch center 3. The clutch portion 5 is disposed between the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4. Specifically, the clutch portion 5 is disposed between the pressure receiving surface 38 and the pressing surface 45.

[0064] FIG. 8 is a cross-sectional view showing details of the clutch portion 5. For ease of illustration, description of members unnecessary for the explanation is omitted. As shown in FIG. 8, the clutch portion 5 includes a plurality of drive plates 51, a plurality of intermediate driven plates 52 (an example of an intermediate clutch plate), a first end driven plate 53 (an example of a first end clutch plate), and a second end driven plate 54 (an example of a second end clutch plate). Hereinafter, the intermediate driven plate 52, the first end driven plate 53, and the second end driven plate 54 may be collectively referred to as driven plates 52 to 54.

[0065] The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52 to 54 are annular. The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52 to 54 are disposed between the pressure receiving surface 38 and the pressing surface 45. The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52 to 54 are alternately arranged in the axial direction.

[0066] The drive plate 51 is axially movable and non-rotatable relative to the clutch housing 2. That is, the drive plate 51 rotates integrally with the clutch housing 2. Specifically, a plurality of engaging protrusions 511 protruding radially outward are formed on the outer peripheral portion of the drive plate 51 (see FIG. 2). These engaging protrusions 511 are engaged with notches 221 formed in the cylindrical portion 22 of the clutch housing 2. Friction materials are attached to both sides of the drive plate 51.

[0067] FIG. 9 is a plan view showing an intermediate driven plate 52 attached to the first cylindrical portion 36 of the clutch center 3. As shown in FIG. 9, the intermediate driven plate 52 has a plurality of third internal teeth 521. Each of the third internal teeth 521 is engaged with each of the first external teeth 361. Thereby, the intermediate driven plate 52 is axially movable and non-rotatable relative to the first cylindrical portion 36. That is, the intermediate driven plate 52 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3. Note that the third internal teeth 521 are disposed within the second opposing toothless portions 362. That is, the intermediate driven plate 52 has the third internal teeth 521 formed at a predetermined pitch and does not have toothless portions.

[0068] All of the third internal teeth 521 of the intermediate driven plate 52 have the same tooth depth. For this reason, in the process of attaching the intermediate driven plate 52 to the first cylindrical portion 36, the third internal teeth 521 are not disposed within the regulating groove 365. Further, the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a surface that abuts against the regulating surface 366. For this reason, when the intermediate driven plate 52 is attached to the first cylindrical portion 36, it can move axially toward the second side beyond the regulating groove 365 and the regulating surface 366. For this reason, as shown in FIG. 8, each intermediate driven plate 52 in a state of being attached to the first cylindrical portion 36 is disposed on the second side in the axial direction with respect to the regulating groove 365. The intermediate driven plate 52 is disposed at an interval from the regulating groove 365 in the axial direction.

[0069] The intermediate driven plate 52 is arranged on the second axial side with respect to the restricting surface 366 in the axial direction. That is, the intermediate driven plate 52 is arranged in the region between the restricting surface 366 and the pressure receiving surface 38 in the axial direction. The restricting surface 366 is formed between the first proximal end portion 363 and the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0070] The first end driven plate 53 is attached to the first cylindrical portion 36. The first end driven plate 53 is attached to the first proximal end portion 363 of the first cylindrical portion 36. The plurality of intermediate driven plates 52 are arranged on the second axial side with respect to the first end driven plate 53. That is, the plurality of intermediate driven plates 52 are arranged between the first end driven plate 53 and the pressure receiving surface 38 in the axial direction.

[0071] The first end driven plate 53 is thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52. Although not particularly limited, for example, the thickness of the first end driven plate 53 is about 0.2 to 2.0 mm thicker than the thickness of the intermediate driven plate 52, preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm thicker. Note that the first end driven plate 53 may have the same thickness as the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0072] FIG. 10 is a plan view showing the first end driven plate 53 attached to the first cylindrical portion 36, and FIG. 11 is a perspective view showing the first end driven plate 53 attached to the first cylindrical portion 36. As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first end driven plate 53 has a plurality of first internal teeth 531. Each first internal tooth 531 meshes with each first external tooth 361. Thereby, the first end driven plate 53 is movable in the axial direction and non-rotatable relative to the first cylindrical portion 36. That is, the first end driven plate 53 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3.

[0073] The plurality of first internal teeth 531 have a plurality of first protruding internal teeth 531a (an example of protruding internal teeth). That is, a part of the plurality of first internal teeth 531 are the first protruding internal teeth 531a. The first protruding internal teeth 531a protrude radially inward more than the other first internal teeth 531. That is, the tooth length of the first protruding internal teeth 531a is longer than the tooth length of the first internal teeth 531. Note that the first protruding internal teeth 531a mesh with the first external teeth 361 in the same manner as the first internal teeth 531.

[0074] The first protruding internal teeth 531a are disposed within the regulation groove 365. Specifically, the tip of the first protruding internal teeth 531a is disposed within the regulation groove 365. That is, the first protruding internal teeth 531a extend in the radial direction beyond the tooth root to the regulation groove 365.

[0075] As shown in FIG. 8, the first end driven plate 53 has an opposing surface 533. The opposing surface 533 is a surface facing the second side in the axial direction of the first protruding internal teeth 531a. The opposing surface 533 faces the regulation surface 366. Note that the opposing surface 533 is disposed at an interval from the regulation surface 366 in the axial direction.

[0076] According to the above configuration, when attaching the first end driven plate 53 to the first cylindrical portion 36, even if an attempt is made to erroneously place the first end driven plate 53 at the position of the intermediate driven plate 52, the opposing surface 533 of the first end driven plate 53 abuts against the regulation surface 366, and the first end driven plate 53 cannot be moved further to the second side in the axial direction. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first end driven plate 53 from being erroneously placed at the position of the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0077] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the first end driven plate 53 has a plurality of second tooth missing portions 534. In this embodiment, it has three second tooth missing portions 534. The second tooth missing portion 534 is an area where the first internal teeth 531 are not formed. Except for the second tooth missing portion 534, each first internal tooth 531 is formed at a predetermined pitch. The second tooth missing portions 534 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the second tooth missing portion 534 is formed between a pair of first protruding internal teeth 531a.

[0078] The second tooth missing portion 534 faces the second opposing tooth missing portion 362 in the radial direction. Therefore, a space is formed by the second opposing tooth missing portion 362 and the second tooth missing portion 534. The second protruding portion 465 of the second cylindrical portion 46 is inserted into the space formed by the second opposing tooth missing portion 362 and the second tooth missing portion 534 (see FIG. 12). The second tooth missing portion 534 overlaps with the second protruding portion 465 in the axial direction view. In this embodiment, the second protruding portion 465 extends into the second tooth missing portion 534. That is, in the radial direction view, the second protruding portion 465 overlaps with the second tooth missing portion 534.

[0079] According to this configuration, when the intermediate driven plate 52 is erroneously arranged at the position of the first end driven plate 53, since the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a tooth missing portion, the third internal teeth 521 are arranged in the second opposing tooth missing portion 362. Therefore, even if an attempt is made to combine the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4, the second protruding portion 465 collides with the third internal teeth 521 and cannot be combined. As a result, it can be noticed that the intermediate driven plate 52 is erroneously arranged at the position of the first end driven plate 53.

[0080] As shown in Fig. 8, the second end driven plate 54 is attached to the second cylindrical portion 46. The second end driven plate 54 is attached to the second proximal end portion 463 of the second cylindrical portion 46. A drive plate 51 is disposed between the second end driven plate 54 and the pressing surface 45. In this embodiment, an intermediate driven plate 52 is not disposed between the second end driven plate 54 and the pressing surface 45, but an intermediate driven plate 52 may be disposed therebetween.

[0081] The second end driven plate 54 is thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52. Although not particularly limited, for example, the thickness of the second end driven plate 54 is about 0.2 to 2.0 mm thicker than the thickness of the intermediate driven plate 52, preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm thicker. Note that the second end driven plate 54 may have the same thickness as the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0082] Fig. 13 is a perspective view showing the second end driven plate 54 attached to the second cylindrical portion 46. As shown in Fig. 13, the second end driven plate 54 has a plurality of second internal teeth 541. Each second internal tooth 541 meshes with each second external tooth 461. Thereby, the second end driven plate 54 is movable in the axial direction and non-rotatable relative to the second cylindrical portion 46. That is, the second end driven plate 54 rotates integrally with the pressure plate 4.

[0083] The plurality of second internal teeth 541 have a plurality of second protruding internal teeth 541a. That is, a part of the plurality of second internal teeth 541 is the second protruding internal tooth 541a. The second protruding internal tooth 541a protrudes radially inward more than the other second internal teeth 541. That is, the tooth length of the second protruding internal tooth 541a is longer than the tooth length of the second internal tooth 541. Note that the second protruding internal tooth 541a meshes with the second external tooth 461 in the same manner as the second internal tooth 541.

[0084] The second protruding internal tooth 541a is disposed within the groove portion 466. Specifically, the tip of the second protruding internal tooth 541a is disposed within the groove portion 466. That is, the second protruding internal tooth 541a extends in the radial direction beyond the tooth root to the groove portion 466. In the present embodiment, the second end driven plate 54 has the same shape as the first end driven plate 53. Thus, by making the first end driven plate 53 and the second end driven plate 54 common, cost reduction can be achieved.

[0085] The second end driven plate 54 has a plurality of first tooth missing portions 542. In the present embodiment, it has three first tooth missing portions 542. The first tooth missing portion 542 is a region where the second internal tooth 541 is not formed. Except for the first tooth missing portion 542, each second internal tooth 541 is formed at a predetermined pitch. The first tooth missing portions 542 are arranged at intervals in the circumferential direction. In the present embodiment, the first tooth missing portion 542 is formed between a pair of second protruding internal teeth 541a.

[0086] The first tooth missing portion 542 faces the first opposing tooth missing portion 462 in the radial direction. Therefore, a space is formed by the first opposing tooth missing portion 462 and the first tooth missing portion 542. The first protruding portion 367 of the first cylindrical portion 36 is inserted into the space formed by the first opposing tooth missing portion 462 and the first tooth missing portion 542.

[0087] FIG. 14 is a view of the clutch center 3 and the second end driven plate 54 seen along the axial direction. As shown in FIG. 14, the first tooth missing portion 542 overlaps with the first protruding portion 367 in the axial view. In the present embodiment, the first protruding portion 367 extends into the first tooth missing portion 542. That is, in the radial view, the first protruding portion 367 overlaps with the first tooth missing portion 542. The outer circumference of the first tooth missing portion 542 is larger in diameter than the tooth root circle of the second internal tooth 541. That is, the outer diameter D1 of the first tooth missing portion 542 is larger than the outer diameter D2 of the tooth root circle.

[0088] According to this configuration, when the intermediate driven plate 52 is erroneously placed at the position of the second end driven plate 54, since the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a tooth missing part, the third internal tooth 521 is arranged in the first pair of opposing tooth missing parts 462. For this reason, even if an attempt is made to combine the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4, the first protruding part 367 collides with the third internal tooth 521 and cannot be combined. As a result, it can be noticed that the intermediate driven plate 52 is erroneously placed at the position of the second end driven plate 54.

[0089] [Support plate] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the support plate 6 is annular and extends in the circumferential direction. The support plate 6 is arranged on the first side in the axial direction with respect to the clutch center 3. The support plate 6 is attached to the tip of the column part 33 (the upper end part in FIG. 2). Specifically, the bolt 8 fastens the clutch center 3 and the support plate 6. For this reason, the support plate 6 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3.

[0090] [Coil spring] The coil spring 9 is arranged at a distance from the column part 33 in the circumferential direction. Specifically, a plurality of coil springs 9 and a plurality of column parts 33 are alternately arranged in the circumferential direction. The coil spring 9 is arranged in a compressed state between the pressure plate 4 and the support plate 6 in the axial direction. Note that the end part on the second side in the axial direction of the coil spring 9 is arranged in the holding recess 424 of the pressure plate 4. The coil spring 9 is held by the holding recess 424, so that its movement in the radial direction and the circumferential direction is restricted.

[0091] The coil spring 9 biases the pressure plate 4 toward the second side in the axial direction. For this reason, the pressure surface 45 is biased so as to approach the pressure receiving surface 38, the clutch portion 5 is in the clutch-on state, and power is transmitted. Note that by moving the pressure plate 4 toward the first side in the axial direction against the biasing force of the coil spring 9 by the release member, the pressure surface 45 moves away from the pressure receiving surface 38. As a result, the clutch portion 5 is in the clutch-off state, and the transmission of power between the clutch housing 2 and the clutch center 3 is interrupted.

[0092] [Operation of the cam mechanism] When the pressure plate 4 rotates relative to the clutch center 3 in the first rotation direction R1 during acceleration or the like, the first cam surface 341 and the second cam surface 422 press against each other, and the pressure plate 4 moves toward the second side in the axial direction. As a result, since the pressure surface 45 moves so as to approach the pressure receiving surface 38, the coupling force by the clutch portion 5 increases.

[0093] On the other hand, when the clutch center 3 rotates relative to the pressure plate 4 in the first rotation direction R1 during deceleration or the like, the third cam surface 342 and the fourth cam surface 423 press against each other, and the pressure plate 4 moves toward the first side in the axial direction. As a result, since the pressure surface 45 moves away from the pressure receiving surface 38, the coupling force by the clutch portion 5 decreases.

[0094] According to the clutch device 100 configured as described above, since the clutch center 3 has the first protrusion 367, when assembling the intermediate driven plate 52 and the first end driven plate 53 to the first cylindrical portion 36, the assembly becomes easier. Specifically, if the first protrusion 367 is not provided, when aligning and assembling the first inner teeth 531 of the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. with the end face of the first external teeth 361, i.e., the axial end face of the first cylindrical portion 36, it is necessary to maintain a high parallelism for the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. If the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. is inclined with respect to the axial end face of the first cylindrical portion 36, the first inner teeth 531 of the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. will engage with the first external teeth 361, making the assembly difficult.

[0095] On the other hand, by providing the first protrusion 367 on the first cylindrical portion 36, the first protrusion 367 functions as an insertion guide during assembly. That is, only a part of the first inner teeth 531 of the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. is inserted into the first protrusion 367, and using the first protrusion 367 as a guide, the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. can be inserted into the first external teeth 361 of the first cylindrical portion 36. Therefore, during assembly, the occurrence of engagement between the first external teeth 361 and the first inner teeth 531 can be suppressed, and the assembly of the intermediate driven plate 52 etc. becomes easier.

[0096] [Modification Example] As described above, the embodiments of the present invention have been explained, but the present invention is not limited to these, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the present invention. Note that the following modification examples can basically be applied simultaneously.

[0097] (a) In the above embodiment, both the first end driven plate 53 and the second end driven plate 54 were configured to be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52, but the configuration of the clutch device 100 is not limited to this. For example, only the first end driven plate 53 may be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52, or only the second end driven plate 54 may be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0098] (b) In the above embodiment, the clutch center 3 is exemplified as the first rotating member, and the pressure plate 4 is exemplified as the second rotating member. However, the configuration of the clutch device is not limited to this. For example, the first rotating member may be a pressure plate, and the second rotating member may be a clutch center.

[0099] (c) In the above embodiment, the pressure plate 4 had the second protruding portion 465. However, the pressure plate 4 may not have the second protruding portion 465. In this case, the first end driven plate 53 may not have the second toothless portion 534.

[0100] (d) In the above embodiment, the regulating groove 365 was formed at the tooth root. However, the position of the regulating groove 365 is not limited to this. For example, the regulating groove 365 may be formed on the side surface of the first external teeth 361. In this case, the first protruding internal teeth 531a protrude in the circumferential direction more than the other first internal teeth 531. That is, the tooth thickness of the first protruding internal teeth 531a is larger than the tooth thickness of the other first internal teeth 531. As a result, a part of the first protruding internal teeth 531a is disposed in the regulating groove 365. That is, the opposing surface 533 of the first protruding internal teeth 531a faces the regulating surface 366 which is a part of the surface defining the regulating groove 365.

[0101] (e) In the above embodiment, the pressure plate 4 was disposed on the first side in the axial direction with respect to the clutch center 3. However, the position of the pressure plate 4 is not limited to this. That is, as shown in FIG. 15, the pressure plate 4 may be disposed on the second side in the axial direction with respect to the clutch center 3. That is, the pressing surface 45 may be disposed on the second side in the axial direction with respect to the pressure receiving surface 38.

[0102] In this case, the pressing surface 45 faces the first side in the axial direction, and the pressure receiving surface 38 faces the second side in the axial direction. Also, the first end driven plate 53 is disposed on the first side in the axial direction with respect to the second end driven plate 54. The clutch is disengaged by moving the pressure plate 4 to the second side in the axial direction.

Explanation of Symbols

[0103] 3: Clutch Center 36: First Cylindrical Portion 361: First External Teeth 362: Second Opposite Toothless Portion 363: First Proximal End Portion 365: Regulation Groove 366: Regulation Surface 367: First Protrusion 4: Pressure Plate 46: Second Cylindrical Portion 461: Second External Teeth 462: First Opposite Toothless Portion 463: Second Proximal End Portion 465: Second Protrusion 52: Intermediate Driven Plate 521: Third Internal Teeth 53: First End Driven Plate 531: First Internal Teeth 531a: First Protruding Internal Teeth 533: Opposite Surface 534: Second Toothless Portion 54: Second End Driven Plate 541: Second Internal Teeth 542: First Toothless Portion 100: Clutch Device

Claims

1. A first rotating member having a first cylindrical portion including a plurality of first external teeth extending in the axial direction, and a first protruding portion protruding axially from the first external teeth, A second rotating member having a second cylindrical portion including second external teeth extending in the axial direction and arranged to be adjacent to the first rotating member in the axial direction, A first end clutch plate having a first internal tooth meshing with the first external tooth and attached to a first proximal end portion of the first cylindrical portion close to the second cylindrical portion, A second end clutch plate having a second internal tooth meshing with the second external tooth and a first toothless portion overlapping with the first protruding portion in the axial view, and attached to a second proximal end portion of the second cylindrical portion close to the first cylindrical portion, A clutch device comprising the above.

2. The second rotating member has a second protruding portion protruding axially from the second external teeth toward the first cylindrical portion, The first end clutch plate has a second toothless portion overlapping with the second protruding portion in the axial view, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

3. The first rotating member is a clutch center, The second rotating member is a pressure plate, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

4. The first rotating member is a pressure plate, The second rotating member is a clutch center, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

5. The first protruding portion extends within the first toothless portion, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

6. The outer circumference of the first toothless portion has a diameter larger than the root circle of the second internal tooth, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

7. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating surface, The regulating surface faces the second cylindrical portion side in the axial direction, The first end clutch plate has a facing surface facing the regulating surface, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

8. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating groove formed at the tooth root, The first internal tooth has a protruding internal tooth arranged in the regulating groove, The regulating groove extends axially at the first proximal end portion, The clutch device according to Claim 1.

9. Further comprising an intermediate clutch plate having a third internal tooth meshing with the first external tooth and attached to the first cylindrical portion, The intermediate clutch plate is arranged at an interval from the regulating groove in the axial direction, The clutch device according to Claim 8.

10. The second cylindrical portion has an opposing toothless portion formed to oppose the first toothless portion in the radial direction, The first protruding portion is inserted into a space formed by the first toothless portion and the opposing toothless portion. The clutch device according to claim 1.

11. The first cylindrical portion has an opposing toothless portion formed to face the second toothless portion in the radial direction. The second protruding portion is inserted into a space formed by the second toothless portion and the opposing toothless portion. The clutch device according to claim 2.

Images