Clutch device

Abstract

To provide a clutch device equipped with a centrifugal clutch mechanism that can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate together. [Solution] The clutch device 10 comprises a clutch center 40, a pressure plate 70, a support plate 150, a bolt 28 connecting the clutch center 40 and the support plate 150, and a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 having a weight member 122. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 with respect to direction D, with the pressure plate 70 in between, and the weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 presses the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 together as the weight member 122 moves.

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] A saddle-type vehicle such as a motorcycle includes a clutch device that can transmit and cut off the rotational driving force of a driving source such as an engine to a driving wheel. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a clutch device including a support plate, a pressure plate, and a clutch center. The clutch device of Patent Document 1 further includes a cam mechanism that increases the pressing force of a clutch portion (for example, a driving-side clutch plate and a driven-side clutch plate), and a slipper cam mechanism that reduces the pressing force of the clutch portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] By the way, conventionally, there is a clutch device provided with a centrifugal clutch mechanism that increases the pressing force between a driving-side clutch plate and a driven-side clutch plate when a weight member moves from a first position to a second position due to centrifugal force accompanying the rotation of a clutch housing. When such a centrifugal clutch mechanism is provided in the clutch device disclosed in Patent Document 1, there is a possibility that the driving-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate cannot be sufficiently pressed depending on the position where the centrifugal clutch mechanism is arranged.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of this point, and an object thereof is to provide a clutch device provided with a centrifugal clutch mechanism that can sufficiently press a driving-side clutch plate and a driven-side clutch plate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] The clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, and is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and is connected to the output member, and has a first rotating body having a first cam surface, a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and is provided so as to be movable and rotatable in the axial direction of the output member with respect to the first rotating body, and has a plurality of driven-side clutch plates arranged alternately with the drive-side clutch plates A second rotating body holding at least one of the plates; a third rotating body fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction, and having a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface; at least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body; and a first cam mechanism composed of the first cam surface and the second cam surface, configured to move the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the first and second rotating bodies; A second cam mechanism, composed of the third and fourth cam surfaces, configured to move the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the second and third rotating bodies, and a second cam mechanism the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, by releasing the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, from a first position where the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate is released as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output The centrifugal clutch mechanism comprises a plurality of weight members that are movable to a second position in which transmission can be transmitted to a member, wherein the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the second rotating body in the axial direction from the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate, the weight members are located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member extending in the axial direction, and the centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured such that the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate are pressed together when the weight members move from the first position to the second position.

[0007] According to the clutch device of the present invention, the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate in the axial direction, with the second rotating body in between, and the weight member is located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member that extends in the axial direction. According to the above embodiment, the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate can be sufficiently pressed together by the weight member. Furthermore, since the weight member is arranged using the space radially outward from the connecting member, the size of the clutch device can be suppressed.

[0008] Another clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, and is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and is connected to the output member, and has a first rotating body having a first cam surface, a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and is provided so as to be movable and rotatable in the axial direction of the output member with respect to the first rotating body, and holds at least one of a plurality of driven-side clutch plates arranged alternately with the drive-side clutch plates, a third rotating body fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction of the second rotating body, and has a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface, at least one connecting member that connects the first rotating body and the third rotating body, and is composed of the first cam surface and the second cam surface, and moves the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the first rotating body and the second rotating body A first cam mechanism configured in such a way, a second cam mechanism composed of the third cam surface and the fourth cam surface, configured to move the second rotating body from one side in the axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, and a first position from which the pressing force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate can be released as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, the driving-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate are pressed together The device comprises a centrifugal clutch mechanism having a plurality of weight members that are movable to a second position in which the rotational driving force of the input member can be transmitted to the output member, wherein at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is positioned between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the axial direction and overlaps with the connecting member when viewed from the radial direction, and the centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured such that the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate are pressed together as the weight members move from the first position to the second position.

[0009] In another clutch device according to the present invention, at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is positioned between a first rotating body and a second rotating body in the axial direction and overlaps with a connecting member when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism can sufficiently press the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate into contact.

[0010] Another clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, and is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and holds at least one of a plurality of driven-side clutch plates that are alternately arranged with the drive-side clutch plates, and has a first rotating body having a first cam surface, a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and is connected to the output member, and is fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction of the output member, sandwiching the second rotating body, and has a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface, and at least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body, and a first cam mechanism composed of the first cam surface and the second cam surface, and configured to move the first rotating body from one side in the axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and the third The invention provides a centrifugal clutch mechanism comprising a second cam mechanism composed of a cam surface and a fourth cam surface, configured to move the first rotating body from one side in the axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, and a plurality of weight members that are movable from a first position in which the pressing force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate is released as the centrifugal force increases with the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, to a second position in which the driving-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate are pressed together, making it possible to transmit the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, wherein at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is arranged between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the axial direction, and overlaps with the connecting member when viewed from the radial direction, and the centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured to press the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate together as the weight members move from the first position to the second position.

[0011] In another clutch device according to the present invention, at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is positioned between a first rotating body and a second rotating body in the axial direction and overlaps with a connecting member when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism can sufficiently press the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate into contact.

[0012] Another clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, and is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and is connected to the output member, and has a first rotating body having a first cam surface, a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and is provided so as to be movable and rotatable in the axial direction of the output member with respect to the first rotating body, and has a plurality of driven-side clutch plates arranged alternately with the drive-side clutch plates. A second rotating body that holds at least one clutch plate; a third rotating body fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction, and having a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface; at least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body; and a first cam surface formed by the first cam surface and the second cam surface, configured to move the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the first and second rotating bodies. A clutch mechanism, a second cam mechanism comprising the third cam surface and the fourth cam surface, configured to move the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, and a first position from which the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate are pressed together to block the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member by releasing the pressing force between the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member. The centrifugal clutch mechanism includes a plurality of weight members that are movable to a second position in which force can be transmitted to the output member, and a pressure contact member that moves in the axial direction as the weight members move from the first position to the second position, causing the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate to press against each other, wherein the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the first rotating body from the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate with respect to the axial direction, and the pressure contact member is located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member that extends in the axial direction.

[0013] In another clutch device according to the present invention, the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the first rotating body from the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate in the axial direction, and the contact member is located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member that extends in the axial direction. According to the above embodiment, the contact member can sufficiently press the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate together. Furthermore, since the contact member is positioned using the space radially outward from the connecting member, the size of the clutch device can be suppressed.

[0014] Another clutch device according to the present invention is a clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, and is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and holds at least one of a plurality of driven-side clutch plates that are alternately arranged with the drive-side clutch plates, and has a first rotating body having a first cam surface, a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and is connected to the output member, and is fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction of the output member, sandwiching the second rotating body, and has a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface, at least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body, and a first cam mechanism composed of the first cam surface and the second cam surface, and configured to move the first rotating body from one side in the axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, and the third cam surface and the fourth cam A second cam mechanism, composed of a surface and configured to move the first rotating body from one side in the axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, and a second cam mechanism, which, as the centrifugal force accompanying the rotation of the clutch housing increases, releases the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, and then presses the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate together to transmit the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member. The centrifugal clutch mechanism includes a plurality of weight members that are movable to a second position that enables a certain state, and a pressure contact member that moves in the axial direction as the weight members move from the first position to the second position, causing the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate to press against each other, wherein the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the first rotating body from the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate with respect to the axial direction, and the pressure contact member is located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member that extends in the axial direction.

[0015] In another clutch device according to the present invention, the centrifugal clutch mechanism is located on the opposite side of the first rotating body from the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate in the axial direction, and the contact member is located radially outward from the axis of the connecting member that extends in the axial direction. According to the above embodiment, the contact member can sufficiently press the driving clutch plate and the driven clutch plate together. Furthermore, since the contact member is positioned using the space radially outward from the connecting member, the size of the clutch device can be suppressed. [Effects of the Invention]

[0016] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch device equipped with a centrifugal clutch mechanism that can sufficiently press together the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0017] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the clutch center according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing a pressure plate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing a pressure plate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view showing a support plate according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6A] Figure 6A is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the first cam mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 6B] Figure 6B is a schematic diagram illustrating the operation of the second cam mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view showing the weight member in the second position. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of the centrifugal clutch mechanism according to the first embodiment. [Figure 9]FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device according to the second embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the weight member is located at the second position. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12A] FIG. 12A is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the first cam mechanism according to the third embodiment. [Figure 12B] FIG. 12B is a schematic diagram for explaining the operation of the second cam mechanism according to the third embodiment. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 14] FIG. 14 is a cross-sectional view showing a state where the weight member is located at the second position. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device according to the fifth embodiment.

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0018] Hereinafter, embodiments of the clutch device according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the embodiments described here are not intended to particularly limit the present invention. In addition, members and parts having the same function are denoted by the same reference numerals, and redundant descriptions are omitted or simplified as appropriate.

[0019] <First Embodiment> FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device 10 according to the first embodiment. The clutch device 10 is provided in a vehicle such as a motorcycle, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device that transmits or cuts off the rotational driving force of an input member (crankshaft) of a driving source (for example, an engine) of a motorcycle to the output shaft 15, for example. The clutch device 10 is a device for transmitting or cutting off the rotational driving force of the input member to a driving wheel (rear wheel) via the output shaft 15. The clutch device 10 is disposed between the driving source and the transmission. The output shaft 15 is an example of an output member.

[0020] In the following description, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 of the clutch device 10 approaches and moves away from the clutch center 40 is referred to as direction D, the direction in which the pressure plate 70 approaches the clutch center 40 is referred to as the first direction D1, and the direction in which the pressure plate 70 moves away from the clutch center 40 is referred to as the second direction D2. Furthermore, the circumferential direction of the clutch center 40, pressure plate 70, and support plate 150 is defined as the circumferential direction S. With respect to the circumferential direction S, the direction from one pressure-side cam portion 90 to the other pressure-side cam portion 90 (the direction from one center-side cam portion 60 to the other center-side cam portion 60, and the direction from one support-side cam portion 160 to the other support-side cam portion 160) is defined as the first circumferential direction S1 (see Figure 3), and the direction from the other pressure-side cam portion 90 to the one pressure-side cam portion 90 (the direction from the other center-side cam portion 60 to the one center-side cam portion 60, and the direction from the other support-side cam portion 160 to the one support-side cam portion 160) is defined as the second circumferential direction S2 (see Figure 3). In this embodiment, the axial direction of the output shaft 15, the axial direction of the clutch housing 30, the axial direction of the clutch center 40, and the axial direction of the pressure plate 70 and support plate 150 are in the same direction as direction D. Furthermore, the pressure plate 70, clutch center 40, and support plate 150 rotate in a first circumferential direction S1 (i.e., the direction from the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S of one pressure-side cam portion 90 toward the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A). However, the above direction is merely defined for the convenience of explanation and does not limit the installation configuration of the clutch device 10 in any way, nor does it limit the present invention in any way.

[0021] As shown in Figure 1, the clutch device 10 comprises an output shaft 15, a drive-side clutch plate 20, a driven-side clutch plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center 40, a pressure plate 70, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, and a support plate 150. The clutch center 40 is an example of a first rotating body. The pressure plate 70 is an example of a second rotating body. The support plate 150 is an example of a third rotating body.

[0022] As shown in Figure 1, the output shaft 15 is a hollow shaft. One end of the output shaft 15 rotatably supports the input gear 35 and clutch housing 30, which will be described later, via a needle bearing 15A. The output shaft 15 fixedly supports the clutch center 40 via a nut 15B. That is, the output shaft 15 rotates integrally with the clutch center 40. The other end of the output shaft 15 is connected to, for example, a transmission (not shown) of a motor vehicle or motorcycle.

[0023] As shown in Figure 1, the output shaft 15 is equipped with a push rod 16A in its hollow section 15H and a push member 16B provided adjacent to the push rod 16A. The hollow section 15H functions as a passage for clutch oil. The clutch oil flows inside the output shaft 15, i.e., inside the hollow section 15H. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B are slidably mounted inside the hollow section 15H of the output shaft 15. One end of the push rod 16A (the left end in the figure) is connected to the clutch operating lever (not shown) of a motorcycle, and by operating the clutch operating lever, it slides inside the hollow section 15H and presses the push member 16B in a second direction D2. A part of the push member 16B protrudes outward from the output shaft 15 (in this case, in the second direction D2) and is connected to a release bearing 18 provided on the pressure plate 70. The push rod 16A and the push member 16B are formed to be thinner than the inner diameter of the hollow portion 15H, ensuring the flow of clutch oil within the hollow portion 15H. The push rod 16A may also be configured to slide electrically using a servo motor or the like.

[0024] The clutch housing 30 is made of an aluminum alloy. The clutch housing 30 is formed in a bottomed cylindrical shape. As shown in Figure 1, the clutch housing 30 has a substantially circular bottom wall 31 and side walls 33 extending in direction D from the edge of the bottom wall 31. The clutch housing 30 holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates 20.

[0025] As shown in Figure 1, 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 by rivets 35B via a torque damper (not shown). The input gear 35 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) that rotates due to the rotational drive of the engine's input member. The input gear 35 rotates independently of the output shaft 15 and integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0026] The drive-side clutch plate 20 is rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member. As shown in Figure 1, the drive-side clutch plate 20 is held on the inner circumferential surface of the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The drive-side clutch plate 20 is held by engaging with a notch 30C formed in the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The drive-side clutch plate 20 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch housing 30. The drive-side clutch plate 20 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0027] The drive-side clutch plate 20 is a component that presses against the driven-side clutch plate 22. The drive-side clutch plate 20 is formed in an annular shape. The drive-side clutch plate 20 is molded from aluminum die-cast. A friction material (not shown) consisting of multiple pieces of paper is attached to the front and back surfaces of the drive-side clutch plate 20. Grooves several hundred micrometers deep are formed between the friction material to hold clutch oil.

[0028] As shown in Figure 1, the clutch center 40 is housed in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 40 is positioned concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 40 has a cylindrical body 42 and a center-side flange 68 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the body 42. The body 42 has a portion that protrudes from the center-side flange 68 in a second direction D2. The clutch center 40 holds a portion of the driven clutch plate 22. The clutch center 40 is rotationally driven together with the output shaft 15.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the main body 42 comprises an annular base portion 43, a center-side outer peripheral wall 45 extending from the base portion 43 in a second direction D2, an output shaft holding portion 50 provided in the center of the base portion 43, a plurality of center-side cam portions 60 formed on the base portion 43, and a center-side fitting portion 58. The center-side cam portions 60 are formed to protrude in the second direction D2 from the center-side flange 68. The center-side cam portions 60 are located radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50.

[0030] As shown in Figure 2, the center flange 68 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge 42 of the main body. The center flange 68 is located radially outward from the center cam portion 60. The center flange 68, together with the pressure flange 98 (see Figure 1), which will be described later, of the pressure plate 70, clamps the drive clutch plate 20 and the driven clutch plate 22. The center flange 68 has a pressing surface 68P capable of pressing the drive clutch plate 20 and the driven clutch plate 22. The center flange 68 is a member that applies pressing force to the drive clutch plate 20 and the driven clutch plate 22.

[0031] As shown in Figure 2, the output shaft holder 50 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The output shaft holder 50 has an insertion hole 51 into which the output shaft 15 (see Figure 1) is inserted and spline fitted. The insertion hole 51 is formed through the main body 42. Multiple spline grooves are formed along the axial direction on the inner circumferential surface 50A of the output shaft holder 50 that forms the insertion hole 51. The output shaft 15 is connected to the output shaft holder 50.

[0032] As shown in Figure 2, the center-side outer peripheral wall 45 is positioned radially outward from the output shaft holding portion 50. The center-side outer peripheral wall 45 is formed in an annular shape when viewed from the axial direction of the output shaft 15. The center-side outer peripheral wall 45 extends in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. A center-side spline fitting portion 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 45A of the center-side outer peripheral wall 45. The center-side spline fitting portion 46 has a plurality of center-side fitting teeth 47 that extend along the outer peripheral surface 45A of the center-side outer peripheral wall 45 in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch center 40, and a plurality of center-side spline grooves 48 formed between adjacent center-side fitting teeth 47 and extending in the axial direction of the clutch center 40. The center-side fitting teeth 47 hold a portion of the driven clutch plate 22. The plurality of center-side fitting teeth 47 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. Multiple center-side mating teeth 47 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. Multiple center-side mating teeth 47 are formed to have the same shape. The center-side mating teeth 47 protrude radially outward from the outer circumferential surface 45A of the center-side outer circumferential wall 45. Multiple center-side spline grooves 48 are aligned in the circumferential direction S.

[0033] The driven clutch plate 22 is held by the center-side spline fitting portion 46 of the clutch center 40 and the pressure-side spline fitting portion 76 (see Figure 3) of the pressure plate 70, which will be described later. A portion of the driven clutch plate 22 is held by spline fitting to the center-side fitting teeth 47 and center-side spline groove 48 of the clutch center 40. Another portion of the driven clutch plate 22 is held by spline fitting to the pressure-side fitting teeth 77 (see Figure 3) and pressure-side spline groove 78 (see Figure 3) of the pressure plate 70, which will be described later. The driven clutch plate 22 is provided so as to be displaceable along the axial direction of the clutch center 40. The driven clutch plate 22 is provided so as to be rotatable integrally with the clutch center 40.

[0034] The driven clutch plate 22 is a component that is pressed against the drive clutch plate 20. The driven clutch plate 22 is formed in an annular shape. The driven clutch plate 22 is formed by punching out an annular shape from a thin sheet material made of SPCC material. The friction material provided on the drive clutch plate 20 may be provided on the driven clutch plate 22 instead of the drive clutch plate 20, or it may be provided on both the drive clutch plate 20 and the driven clutch plate 22.

[0035] As shown in Figure 2, the center-side cam portion 60 is formed on the main body 42. The center-side cam portions 60 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the clutch center 40. In this embodiment, the clutch center 40 has three center-side cam portions 60, but the number of center-side cam portions 60 is not limited to three. The center-side cam portions 60 are located radially outward of the output shaft holding portion 50. The center-side cam portion 60 has a center-side slipper cam surface 60S. The center-side slipper cam surface 60S is configured to separate the pressure plate 70 from the clutch center 40 in order to reduce the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the clutch center 40 rotates relative to the pressure plate 70, such as when decelerating. The center-side slipper cam surface 60S is an example of a first cam surface.

[0036] As shown in Figure 1, an insertion hole 60H (see also Figure 2) is formed in the center-side cam portion 60. The insertion hole 60H extends in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the clutch center 40. As shown in Figure 2, in one center-side cam portion 60, the insertion hole 60H is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the center-side slipper cam surface 60S. A bolt 28 (see Figure 1) connecting the clutch center 40 and the support plate 150 is inserted into the insertion hole 60H. The bolt 28 is an example of a connecting member.

[0037] As shown in Figure 2, the center-side fitting portion 58 is provided on the main body 42. The center-side fitting portion 58 is located radially outward from the center-side cam portion 60. The center-side fitting portion 58 is formed on the inner circumferential surface 45B of the center-side outer peripheral wall 45. The center-side fitting portion 58 is configured to slidably fit onto the pressure-side fitting portion 88 (see Figure 3).

[0038] As shown in Figure 1, the pressure plate 70 is housed in the clutch housing 30. The pressure plate 70 is located on the second direction D2 side of the clutch center 40. The pressure plate 70 is mounted so as to be movable (i.e., movable toward and away from) and relatively rotatable in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15 with respect to the clutch center 40 and the support plate 150. The pressure plate 70 is configured to press against the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22. The pressure plate 70 is positioned concentrically with the clutch center 40 and the clutch housing 30. As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the pressure plate 70 has a cylindrical body 72 and a pressure-side flange 98 extending radially outward from the outer peripheral edge of the body 72. The body 72 has a portion that protrudes in the first direction D1 from the pressure-side flange 98. The pressure plate 70 holds at least a portion of the driven-side clutch plate 22.

[0039] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the main body 72 comprises an annular base portion 73, a cylindrical portion 80 provided in the center of the base portion 73, a pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75 located radially outward from the base portion 73 and extending in direction D, a plurality of pressure-side cam portions 90 provided on the base portion 73, a pressure-side fitting portion 88, and a spring housing portion 89.

[0040] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the pressure-side flange 98 extends radially outward from the outer peripheral edge 72 of the main body. The pressure-side flange 98 is located radially outward from the pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75. The pressure-side flange 98, together with the center-side flange 68 of the clutch center 40, clamps the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22. The pressure-side flange 98 has a pressing surface 98P capable of pressing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22. The pressure-side flange 98 is a member that applies pressing force to the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22.

[0041] The cylindrical portion 80 is formed in a cylindrical shape. The cylindrical portion 80 houses the tip portion 15T (see Figure 1) of the output shaft 15. The release bearing 18 (see Figure 1) is housed in the cylindrical portion 80. The cylindrical portion 80 is the part that receives the pressing force from the push member 16B. The cylindrical portion 80 is the part that receives the clutch oil that flows out from the tip portion 15T of the output shaft 15.

[0042] As shown in Figure 3, the pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75 is formed in an annular shape extending in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. A pressure-side spline fitting portion 76 is provided on the outer peripheral surface 75A of the pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75. The pressure-side spline fitting portion 76 has a plurality of pressure-side fitting teeth 77 extending in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the pressure plate 70 along the outer peripheral surface 75A of the pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75, and a plurality of pressure-side spline grooves 78 formed between adjacent pressure-side fitting teeth 77 and extending in the axial direction of the pressure plate 70. The pressure-side fitting teeth 77 hold a portion of the driven clutch plate 22. The plurality of pressure-side fitting teeth 77 are arranged in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure-side fitting teeth 77 are formed at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S. The plurality of pressure-side fitting teeth 77 are formed in the same shape. The pressure-side mating teeth 77 protrude radially outward from the outer surface 75A of the pressure-side outer wall 75. Multiple pressure-side spline grooves 78 are aligned in the circumferential direction S.

[0043] As shown in Figure 3, the pressure-side cam portion 90 is formed on the base portion 73. The pressure-side cam portions 90 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the pressure plate 70. In this embodiment, the pressure plate 70 has three pressure-side cam portions 90, but the number of pressure-side cam portions 90 is not limited to three. The pressure-side cam portion 90 is located radially outward of the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side cam portion 90 is located radially inward of the pressure-side outer peripheral wall 75. The pressure-side cam portion 90 has a pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S (see Figure 3) and a pressure-side assist cam surface 90A (see Figure 4). The pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S is configured to be in contact with the center-side slipper cam surface 60S. The pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S is configured to separate the pressure plate 70 from the clutch center 40 in order to reduce the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the clutch center 40, such as when decelerating. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is configured to be in contact with the support-side assist cam surface 160A, which will be described later. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force in the direction toward the clutch center 40 (i.e., the first direction D1) from the pressure plate 70 in order to increase the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the support plate 150 (i.e., the clutch center 40), such as when accelerating. In adjacent pressure-side cam sections 90 with respect to the circumferential direction S, the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A of one pressure-side cam section 90L and the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S of the other pressure-side cam section 90M are arranged opposite each other in the circumferential direction S. In one pressure-side cam section 90, the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side than the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A. The pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S is an example of a second cam surface. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is an example of a third cam surface.

[0044] As shown in Figure 3, the pressure-side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side fitting portion 88 is located radially outward from the pressure-side cam portion 90. The pressure-side fitting portion 88 is formed on the outer circumferential surface of the base portion 73. The pressure-side fitting portion 88 is configured to slidably fit into the center-side fitting portion 58 (see Figure 2). A gap is formed between the pressure-side fitting portion 88 and the center-side fitting portion 58.

[0045] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the pressure plate 70 has a pressure-side cam hole 73H that penetrates a portion of the base portion 73. The pressure-side cam hole 73H penetrates the base portion 73 in direction D. The pressure-side cam hole 73H is located radially outward from the cylindrical portion 80. The pressure-side cam hole 73H is formed through between adjacent pressure-side cam portions 90. The pressure-side cam hole 73H is formed through between the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A and the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S of adjacent pressure-side cam portions 90.

[0046] As shown in Figure 4, a bottomed cylindrical spring housing 89 is formed in the pressure-side cam portion 90. The spring housing 89 is formed to be recessed from a second direction D2 to a first direction D1. The spring housing 89 is formed in a circular shape. In one pressure-side cam portion 90, the spring housing 89 is located on the second circumferential direction S2 side of the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A and on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S. The spring housing 89 houses a clutch spring (not shown). The clutch spring biases the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center 40 (i.e., toward the first direction D1). The clutch spring is, for example, a coil spring made by winding spring steel in a spiral shape.

[0047] As shown in Figure 1, the support plate 150 is housed in the clutch housing 30. It is located on the opposite side of the clutch center 40 from the pressure plate 70 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. Here, the support plate 150 is located on the second direction D2 side of the pressure plate 70. The support plate 150 is fixed to the clutch center 40 by bolts 28. The support plate 150 is concentric with the pressure plate 70, the clutch center 40, and the clutch housing 30. As shown in Figure 5, the support plate 150 comprises a ring-shaped body 152 and a plurality of support-side cam portions 160 extending from the body 152 toward the first direction D1.

[0048] As shown in Figure 5, a through hole 152H is formed in the center of the main body 152. The through hole 152H penetrates the main body 152 in direction D. The cylindrical portion 80 of the pressure plate 70 is inserted into the through hole 152H.

[0049] As shown in Figure 5, the support-side cam portions 160 are arranged at equal intervals in the circumferential direction S of the support plate 150. In this embodiment, the support plate 150 has three support-side cam portions 160, but the number of support-side cam portions 160 is not limited to three. The support-side cam portions 160 are located radially outward from the through hole 152H. The support-side cam portions 160 have a support-side assist cam surface 160A. The support-side assist cam surface 160A is configured to be in contact with the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A (see Figure 4). The support-side assist cam surface 160A is configured to generate a force in the direction from the pressure plate 70 toward the clutch center 40 (i.e., the first direction D1) in order to increase the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 70 rotates relative to the support plate 150 (i.e., the clutch center 40) during acceleration, etc. The support-side assist cam surface 160A is an example of a fourth cam surface.

[0050] As shown in Figure 1, an insertion hole 160H (see also Figure 5) is formed in the support-side cam portion 160. The insertion hole 160H extends in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the support plate 150. As shown in Figure 5, in one support-side cam portion 160, the insertion hole 160H is located on the first circumferential direction S1 side of the support-side assist cam surface 160A. A bolt 28 connecting the clutch center 40 and the support plate 150 is inserted into the insertion hole 160H.

[0051] As shown in Figure 6A, the clutch device 10 is equipped with a first cam mechanism 101. The first cam mechanism 101 is composed of a center-side slipper cam surface 60S of the clutch center 40 and a pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S of the pressure plate 70. The first cam mechanism 101 is configured to move the pressure plate 70 in a second direction D2 when relative rotation occurs between the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70. For example, when the rotational speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotational speed of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30, and back torque is generated, a rotational force in a first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center 40. Therefore, the center-side slipper cam surface 60S and the pressure-side slipper cam surface 90S work together to move the pressure plate 70 in a second direction D2, releasing the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22. This prevents malfunctions to the engine and transmission caused by back torque.

[0052] As shown in Figure 6B, the clutch device 10 is equipped with a second cam mechanism 102. The second cam mechanism 102 is composed of a pressure-side assist cam surface 90A of the pressure plate 70 and a support-side assist cam surface 160A of the support plate 150. The second cam mechanism 102 is configured to move the pressure plate 70 in a first direction D1 when relative rotation occurs between the pressure plate 70 and the support plate 150 (i.e., the clutch center 40). For example, 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 40, a rotational force in a first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 70. As a result, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 70 due to the action of the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A and the support-side assist cam surface 160A. This increases the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22.

[0053] As shown in Figure 1, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is housed in the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the pressure plate 70 from the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is positioned on the second direction D2 side of the pressure plate 70. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is held in the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is rotatably mounted integrally with the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 has a plurality of weight members 122, a holding member 124, and a pressure contact member 140. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 can release the pressure contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the weight members 122 are in the radially inward position PI (see Figure 1), thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 presses the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 together when the weight member 122 is at position PO (see Figure 7) in the radially outer direction, thereby enabling the rotational driving force of the input member to be transmitted to the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is configured such that the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 are pressed together when the weight member 122 moves from position PI in the radially inner direction to position PO in the radially outer direction. Position PI in the radially inner direction is an example of a first position. Position PO in the radially outer direction is an example of a second position.

[0054] The weight member 122 is provided to be movable from a first position PI (see Figure 1), where the pressure between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 is released as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing 30, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output shaft 15, to a second position PO (see Figure 7), where the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 are pressed together, allowing the rotational driving force of the input member to be transmitted to the output shaft 15. The weight member 122 is housed in a holding member 124. The weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The axis 28L extends in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The weight member 122 comprises a main body portion 130 formed in a substantially rectangular parallelepiped shape, a first spherical member 131, and a second spherical member 132. The first spherical member 131 and the second spherical member 132 are attached to the main body 130. The first spherical member 131 and the second spherical member 132 are, for example, steel balls. The first spherical member 131 is provided so as to be in contact with the pressure contact member 140. The second spherical member 132 is provided so as to be in contact with the holding member 124. The first spherical member 131 and the second spherical member 132 are configured to be rotatable. When no centrifugal force is applied, the weight member 122 is held by the spring 135 at a radially inward position PI. When centrifugal force is applied, the weight member 122 moves radially outward against the biasing force of the spring 135 and moves to a radially outward position PO.

[0055] As shown in Figure 1, the retaining member 124 holds the weight member 122 so that it can move between a radially inward position PI and a radially outward position PO. The retaining member 124 has a housing portion 124A that accommodates the weight member 122. The retaining member 124 is held by engaging with a notch 30C formed in the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The retaining member 124 rotates integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0056] As shown in Figure 1, the contact member 140 is positioned between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 and the retaining member 124 in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The contact member 140 is positioned radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The contact member 140 is held by engaging with a notch 30C formed in the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The contact member 140 rotates integrally with the clutch housing 30. As shown in Figure 8, the contact member 140 is formed in an annular shape. As shown in Figure 1, the contact member 140 has an inclined surface 140A on which the first spherical member 131 rolls. The inclined surface 140A is tilted toward the second direction D2 from the radially inward to the radially outward. The pressure contact member 140 moves in the axial direction (here in the first direction D1) of the output shaft 15 as the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI (see Figure 1) to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 7), causing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 to come into contact. The pressure contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the pressure plate 70. The pressure contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the pressure-side flange 98 of the pressure plate 70.

[0057] In the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 with the above configuration, when no centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 is held at the radially inward position PI (see Figure 1), and the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 is released. On the other hand, when centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 7). As a result, the contact member 140 is pressed by the weight member 122 and moves in the first direction D1. As the contact member 140 moves in the first direction D1, the pressure plate 70 is pressed against the contact member 140, and the pressure plate 70 moves in the first direction D1. As a result, the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 are pressed against each other by the pressure-side flange 98 and the center-side flange 68, creating a press-fit state, which allows the rotational driving force of the input member to be transmitted to the output shaft 15.

[0058] As described above, according to the clutch device 10 of this embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the pressure plate 70 with respect to direction D from the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, and the weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28 extending in direction D. According to the above embodiment, the weight member 122 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact. Furthermore, since the weight member 122 is positioned using the space radially outward from the bolt 28, it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the clutch device 10.

[0059] <Second Embodiment> Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device 210 according to the second embodiment. As shown in Figure 9, the clutch device 210 includes an output shaft 15, a drive-side clutch plate 20, a driven-side clutch plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center 40, a pressure plate 70, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 220, and a support plate 150.

[0060] As shown in Figure 9, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is housed in the clutch housing 30. At least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned between the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the second direction D2 side of the clutch center 40. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate 70. At least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed radially. Here, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed radially. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the second direction D2 side of the bolt 28 than the first direction D1 end 28D1 of the bolt 28. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the first direction D1 side of the bolt 28 than the second direction D2 end 28D2 of the bolt 28. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is held in the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is rotatably mounted integrally with the clutch housing 30. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 includes a plurality of weight members 122, a holding member 224, a first contact member 241, and a second contact member 242. When the weight members 122 are in the radially inward position PI (see Figure 9), the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 releases the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output shaft 15. When the weight members 122 are in the radially outward position PO (see Figure 10), the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 presses the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 together, enabling the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output shaft 15.

[0061] As shown in Figure 9, the weight member 122 is housed in the holding member 224. The weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The first spherical member 131 is provided so as to be in contact with the first pressure contact member 241. The second spherical member 132 is provided so as to be in contact with the second pressure contact member 242.

[0062] As shown in Figure 9, the retaining member 224 holds the weight member 122 so that it can move between a radially inward position PI and a radially outward position PO. The retaining member 224 has a housing portion 224A that accommodates the weight member 122. The retaining member 224 is held by engaging with a notch 30C formed in the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The retaining member 224 rotates integrally with the clutch housing 30.

[0063] As shown in Figure 9, the first contact member 241 and the second contact member 242 are positioned between the driven clutch plate 22 held by the drive clutch plate 20 and the clutch center 40 and the driven clutch plate 22 held by the drive clutch plate 20 and the pressure plate 70 in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The first contact member 241 and the second contact member 242 are positioned radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The first contact member 241 and the second contact member 242 are held by engaging with a notch 30C formed in the side wall 33 of the clutch housing 30. The first contact member 241 and the second contact member 242 are formed in an annular shape. The first contact member 241 is positioned on the first direction D1 side than the second contact member 242. The first contact member 241 has an inclined surface 241A on which the first spherical member 131 rolls. The inclined surface 241A is tilted toward the second direction D2 as it moves from the radially inward to the radially outward direction. The first pressure contact member 241 moves in the axial direction of the output shaft 15 (here, the first direction D1) as the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI (see Figure 9) to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 10), causing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 held by the clutch center 40 to press against each other. The second pressure contact member 242 has an inclined surface 242A on which the second spherical member 132 rolls. The inclined surface 242A is tilted toward the first direction D1 as it moves from the radially inward to the radially outward direction. The second pressure contact member 242 moves in the axial direction of the output shaft 15 (here, the second direction D2) as the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI (see Figure 9) to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 10), causing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, which are held by the pressure plate 70, to press against each other.

[0064] In the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 with the above configuration, when no centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 is held at the radially inward position PI (see Figure 9), and the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 is released. On the other hand, when centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 10). As a result, the first contact member 241 and the second contact member 242 are pressed by the weight member 122 and move in the first direction D1 and the second direction D2, respectively. As a result, the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, which are held on the clutch center 40 by the center-side flange 68 and the first pressure-contacting member 241, are pressed against each other, and the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, which are held on the pressure plate 70 by the pressure-side flange 98 and the second pressure-contacting member 242, are pressed against each other, creating a state in which the rotational driving force of the input member can be transmitted to the output shaft 15.

[0065] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned between the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70 with respect to direction D, and overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact.

[0066] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, the weight member 122 is positioned radially outward from the bolt 28. According to this embodiment, the weight member 122 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact. Furthermore, since the weight member 122 is positioned using the space radially outward from the bolt 28, the size of the clutch device 210 can be suppressed.

[0067] In the clutch device 210 of this embodiment, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can be compactly arranged by utilizing the space radially outward from the bolt 28, and thus the increase in size of the clutch device 210 in direction D due to the provision of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can be suppressed.

[0068] <Third Embodiment> Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of a clutch device 310 according to the third embodiment. As shown in Figure 11, the clutch device 310 includes an output shaft 15, a drive-side clutch plate 20, a driven-side clutch plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center 340, a pressure plate 370, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 220, and a support plate 350. The pressure plate 370 is an example of a first rotating body. The clutch center 340 is an example of a second rotating body. The support plate 350 is an example of a third rotating body.

[0069] As shown in Figure 11, the pressure plate 370 is located between the clutch housing 30 and the clutch center 340. The pressure plate 370 is provided so as to be movable (i.e., movable toward and away from) and rotatable relative to the clutch center 340 in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The pressure plate 370 is assembled to the radially outer end of the output shaft holding portion 50 of the clutch center 340 so as to be movable and rotatable in direction D. As shown in Figure 12A, the pressure plate 370 has a pressure-side assist cam surface 90A. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is configured to generate a force in the direction toward the clutch center 340 (i.e., the first direction D1) in order to increase the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 370 rotates relative to the clutch center 340, such as when accelerating. The pressure-side assist cam surface 90A is an example of a first cam surface.

[0070] As shown in Figure 11, an insertion hole 90H is formed in the pressure-side cam portion 90. The insertion hole 90H extends in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the pressure plate 370. A bolt 28 connecting the pressure plate 370 and the support plate 350 is inserted into the insertion hole 90H. The bolt 28 is an example of a connecting member.

[0071] As shown in Figure 11, the clutch center 340 is located on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate 370. The clutch center 340 is located on the second direction D2 side of the support plate 350. As shown in Figure 12A, the clutch center 340 has a center-side assist cam surface 60A and a center-side slipper cam surface 60S. The center-side assist cam surface 60A is configured to be in contact with the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A. The center-side assist cam surface 60A is configured to generate a force in the direction from the pressure plate 370 toward the clutch center 340 (i.e., the first direction D1) in order to increase the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 370 rotates relative to the clutch center 340, such as when accelerating. The center-side slipper cam surface 60S is configured to separate the pressure plate 370 from the clutch center 340 in order to reduce the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 370 rotates relative to the clutch center 340, such as when decelerating. The center-side slipper cam surface 60S is configured to be in contact with the support-side slipper cam surface 160S, which will be described later. The center-side assist cam surface 60A is an example of a second cam surface. The center-side slipper cam surface 60S is an example of a third cam surface.

[0072] As shown in Figure 11, the support plate 350 is located on the opposite side of the pressure plate 370 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15, with the clutch center 340 in between. Here, the support plate 350 is located on the first direction D1 side of the clutch center 340. The support plate 350 is fixed to the pressure plate 370 by bolts 28. As shown in Figure 12A, the support plate 350 has a support-side slipper cam surface 160S. The support-side slipper cam surface 160S is configured to be in contact with the center-side slipper cam surface 60S. The support-side slipper cam surface 160S is configured to move the pressure plate 370 away from the clutch center 340 (i.e., move the pressure plate 370 in the second direction D2) in order to reduce the pressing force (contact force) between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 when the pressure plate 370 rotates relative to the clutch center 340, such as when decelerating. The support-side slipper cam surface 160S is an example of a fourth cam surface. The support plate 350 is pressed in the second direction D2 by the operation of the driver's clutch operating lever (not shown). As a result, the pressure plate 370 connected to the support plate 350 moves away from the clutch center 340 (i.e., in the second direction D2).

[0073] As shown in Figure 12A, the clutch device 310 includes a first cam mechanism 301. The first cam mechanism 301 is composed of a pressure-side assist cam surface 90A of the pressure plate 370 and a center-side assist cam surface 60A of the clutch center 340. The first cam mechanism 301 is configured to move the pressure plate 370 in a first direction D1 when relative rotation occurs between the pressure plate 370 and the clutch center 340. For example, when the engine speed increases and the rotational driving force input to the input gear 35 and clutch housing 30 can be transmitted to the output shaft 15 via the clutch center 340, a rotational force in a first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the pressure plate 370. As a result, a force in the first direction D1 is generated on the pressure plate 370 due to the action of the pressure-side assist cam surface 90A and the center-side assist cam surface 60A. This increases the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22.

[0074] As shown in Figure 12B, the clutch device 310 is equipped with a second cam mechanism 302. The second cam mechanism 302 is composed of the center-side slipper cam surface 60S of the clutch center 340 and the support-side slipper cam surface 160S of the support plate 350. The second cam mechanism 302 is configured to move the pressure plate 370 in a second direction D2 when relative rotation occurs between the clutch center 340 and the support plate 350 (i.e., the pressure plate 370). For example, when the rotational speed of the output shaft 15 exceeds the rotational speed of the input gear 35 and the clutch housing 30, and back torque is generated, a rotational force in a first circumferential direction S1 is applied to the clutch center 340. Therefore, the action of the center-side slipper cam surface 60S and the support-side slipper cam surface 160S moves the pressure plate 370 in the second direction D2, releasing the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22. This makes it possible to avoid malfunctions in the engine and transmission caused by back torque.

[0075] As shown in Figure 11, at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned between the clutch center 340 and the pressure plate 370 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the second direction D2 side of the clutch center 340. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the first direction D1 side of the pressure plate 370. At least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed radially. Here, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed radially. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the second direction D2 side of the bolt 28 than the first direction D1 end 28D1 of the bolt 28. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned on the first direction D1 side of the bolt 28 than the second direction D2 end 28D2 of the bolt 28.

[0076] In the clutch device 310 of this embodiment, at least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 is positioned between the pressure plate 370 and the clutch center 340 with respect to direction D, and overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact.

[0077] In the clutch device 310 of this embodiment, the weight member 122 is positioned radially outward from the bolt 28. According to this embodiment, the space radially outward from the bolt 28 can be used to sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 together by the weight member 122. Furthermore, because the weight member 122 is positioned using the space radially outward from the bolt 28, the size of the clutch device 310 can be suppressed.

[0078] In the clutch device 310 of this embodiment, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 overlaps with the bolt 28 when viewed from the radial direction. According to the above embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can be compactly arranged by utilizing the space radially outside the axis 28L of the bolt 28, and thus the increase in size of the clutch device 310 in direction D due to the provision of the centrifugal clutch mechanism 220 can be suppressed.

[0079] <Fourth Embodiment> Figure 13 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device 410 according to the fourth embodiment. As shown in Figure 13, the clutch device 410 includes an output shaft 15, a drive-side clutch plate 20, a driven-side clutch plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center 440, a pressure plate 70, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, and a support plate 150. The clutch center 440 is an example of a first rotating body.

[0080] As shown in Figure 13, the clutch center 440 is housed in the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 440 is positioned concentrically with the clutch housing 30. The clutch center 440 is rotationally driven together with the output shaft 15. The clutch center 440 comprises a first clutch center 441 and a second clutch center 442. The first clutch center 441 is an example of an inner diameter first rotating body. The second clutch center 442 is an example of an outer diameter first rotating body.

[0081] As shown in Figure 13, the first clutch center 441 has an output shaft holding portion 50 and a center-side cam portion 60. The first clutch center 441 is connected to the output shaft 15. A bolt 28 is fastened to the first clutch center 441. That is, the first clutch center 441 and the support plate 150 are connected by the bolt 28.

[0082] As shown in Figure 13, the second clutch center 442 is mounted on the outer circumference of the first clutch center 441 so as to be movable in the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The second clutch center 442 comprises a center-side outer peripheral wall 45 and a center-side flange 68.

[0083] As shown in Figure 13, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the clutch center 440 from the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the first direction D1 side of the clutch center 440.

[0084] As shown in Figure 13, the weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. When the weight member 122 is located at the radially inward position PI, it is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. As shown in Figure 14, when the weight member 122 is located at the radially outward position PO, it is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28.

[0085] As shown in Figure 13, the contact member 140 has an inclined surface 140A on which the first spherical member 131 rolls. The inclined surface 140A is tilted toward the first direction D1 from the radially inward to the radially outward. The contact member 140 moves in the axial direction of the output shaft 15 (here, the second direction D2) as the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI (see Figure 13) to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 14), causing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 to press against each other. The contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the second clutch center 442. The contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the center-side flange 68 of the second clutch center 442.

[0086] In the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 with the above configuration, when no centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 is held at the radially inward position PI (see Figure 13), and the contact force between the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 is released. On the other hand, when centrifugal force is applied to the weight member 122, the weight member 122 moves from the radially inward position PI to the radially outward position PO (see Figure 14). As a result, the contact member 140 is pressed by the weight member 122 and moves in the second direction D2. As the contact member 140 moves in the second direction D2, the second clutch center 442 is pressed by the contact member 140, and the second clutch center 442 moves in the second direction D2. As a result, the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 are pressed against each other by the pressure-side flange 98 and the center-side flange 68, creating a press-fit state, which allows the rotational driving force of the input member to be transmitted to the output shaft 15.

[0087] In the clutch device 410 of this embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the clutch center 440 with respect to direction D from the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22, and the contact member 140 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. According to the above embodiment, the contact member 140 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact. Furthermore, since the contact member 140 is positioned using the space radially outward from the bolt 28, it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the clutch device 410.

[0088] In the clutch device 410 of this embodiment, the weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. According to the above embodiment, the weight member 122 and the pressure contact member 140 can be compactly arranged by utilizing the space radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28, thereby preventing the clutch device 410 from becoming larger by providing the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120.

[0089] In the clutch device 410 of this embodiment, the pressure contact member 140 moves the second clutch center 442 in direction D by moving the weight member 122 from a radially inward position PI to a radially outward position PO, thereby bringing the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact. According to the above embodiment, the pressure contact member 140 can sufficiently bring the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact via the second clutch center 442.

[0090] <Fifth Embodiment> Figure 15 is a cross-sectional view showing a part of the clutch device 510 according to the fifth embodiment. As shown in Figure 15, the clutch device 510 includes an output shaft 15, a drive-side clutch plate 20, a driven-side clutch plate 22, a clutch housing 30, a clutch center 340, a pressure plate 370, a centrifugal clutch mechanism 120, and a support plate 350.

[0091] As shown in Figure 15, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the pressure plate 370 from the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 with respect to the axial direction (i.e., direction D) of the output shaft 15. The centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the second direction D2 side of the pressure plate 370. The contact member 140 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. The contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the pressure plate 370. The contact member 140 is provided so as to be able to press against the pressure-side flange 98 of the pressure plate 370. The weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28.

[0092] In the clutch device 510 of this embodiment, the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120 is located on the opposite side of the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 with respect to direction D, with the pressure plate 370 in between, and the contact member 140 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. According to the above embodiment, the contact member 140 can sufficiently press the drive-side clutch plate 20 and the driven-side clutch plate 22 into contact. Furthermore, since the contact member 140 is positioned using the space radially outward from the bolt 28, it is possible to suppress the increase in size of the clutch device 510.

[0093] In the clutch device 510 of this embodiment, the weight member 122 is located radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28. According to the above embodiment, the weight member 122 and the pressure contact member 140 can be compactly arranged by utilizing the space radially outward from the axis 28L of the bolt 28, thereby preventing the clutch device 510 from becoming larger by providing the centrifugal clutch mechanism 120.

[0094] Preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the embodiments described above are merely illustrative, and the present invention can be implemented in various other forms.

[0095] The first cam mechanism 101 may be configured to move the pressure plate 70 in a first direction D1 when relative rotation occurs between the clutch center 40 and the pressure plate 70. The second cam mechanism 102 may be configured to move the pressure plate 70 in a second direction D2 when relative rotation occurs between the pressure plate 70 and the support plate 150 (i.e., the clutch center 40).

[0096] The first cam mechanism 301 may be configured to move the pressure plate 370 in a second direction D2 when relative rotation occurs between the pressure plate 370 and the clutch center 340. The second cam mechanism 302 may be configured to move the pressure plate 370 in a first direction D1 when relative rotation occurs between the clutch center 340 and the support plate 350 (i.e., the pressure plate 370). [Explanation of Symbols]

[0097] 10. Clutch device 15. Output shaft (output component) 20 Drive-side clutch plate 22 Passed clutch plate 28 Bolts (connecting members) 28L axis 30 Clutch Housing 40. Clutch Center (First Rotating Body) 60S Center side slipper cam surface (first cam surface) 70 Pressure Plate (Second Rotating Body) 90A Pressure-side assist cam surface (3rd cam surface) 90S Pressure-side slipper cam surface (second cam surface) 101 First cam mechanism 102 Second cam mechanism 120 Centrifugal clutch mechanism 122 Weight component 124 Containing member 140 Pressure-welded member 150 Support Plate (Third Rotation Body) 160A Support side assist cam surface (4th cam surface)

Claims

1. A clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, A first rotating body having a first cam surface is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates that are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and is connected to the output member. A second rotating body having a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and being provided so as to be movable and rotatable relative to the first rotating body in the axial direction of the output member, and holding at least one of a plurality of driven clutch plates arranged alternately with the drive clutch plate, A third rotating body is fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction, and has a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface, At least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body, A first cam mechanism comprising the first cam surface and the second cam surface, configured to move the second rotating body from one axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, A second cam mechanism is formed by the third cam surface and the fourth cam surface, and is configured to move the second rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, The centrifugal clutch mechanism comprises a plurality of weight members that are movable from a first position in which the pressing force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate is released as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, to a second position in which the driving-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate are pressed together, enabling the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member. At least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is positioned between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the axial direction, and overlaps with the connecting member when viewed from the radial direction. The centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured such that the weight member moves from the first position to the second position, thereby pressing the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate into contact.

2. The clutch device according to claim 1, wherein the weight member is arranged radially outward from the connecting member.

3. The clutch device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, when viewed from the radial direction, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism overlaps with the connecting member.

4. A clutch device for transmitting or interrupting the rotational driving force of an input member to an output member, A first rotating body having a first cam surface is housed in a clutch housing that holds a plurality of drive-side clutch plates which are rotationally driven by the rotational drive of the input member, and holds at least one of a plurality of driven-side clutch plates which are alternately arranged with the drive-side clutch plates, A second rotating body having a second cam surface configured to be in contact with the first cam surface, and a third cam surface, and connected to the output member, A third rotating body is fixed to the first rotating body so as to be located on the opposite side of the first rotating body with respect to the axial direction of the output member, with the second rotating body in between, and has a fourth cam surface configured to be in contact with the third cam surface, At least one connecting member connecting the first rotating body and the third rotating body, A first cam mechanism comprising the first cam surface and the second cam surface, configured to move the first rotating body from one axial direction to the other when relative rotation occurs between the first rotating body and the second rotating body, A second cam mechanism is formed by the third cam surface and the fourth cam surface, and is configured to move the first rotating body from one side to the other in the axial direction when relative rotation occurs between the second rotating body and the third rotating body, The centrifugal clutch mechanism comprises a plurality of weight members that are movable from a first position in which the pressing force between the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate is released as the centrifugal force increases due to the rotation of the clutch housing, thereby blocking the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member, to a second position in which the driving-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate are pressed together, enabling the transmission of the rotational driving force of the input member to the output member. At least a portion of the centrifugal clutch mechanism is positioned between the first rotating body and the second rotating body in the axial direction, and overlaps with the connecting member when viewed from the radial direction. The centrifugal clutch mechanism is configured such that the weight member moves from the first position to the second position, thereby pressing the drive-side clutch plate and the driven-side clutch plate into contact.

5. The clutch device according to claim 4, wherein the weight member is arranged radially outward from the connecting member.

6. The clutch device according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, when viewed from the radial direction, the entire centrifugal clutch mechanism overlaps with the connecting member.

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