Power distribution device for four-wheel drive vehicles

Abstract

To provide a power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle which can control the distribution ratio of power in a wide range both when the vehicle travels straight ahead and when the vehicle turns, and which can achieve a compact configuration.SOLUTION: A power distribution device 20A is mounted on a vehicle 1A including: a first transmission mechanism 14 for transmitting power from a power source 11 to a first drive wheel 2; and a second transmission mechanism 17 by which power is transmitted to a second drive wheel 3. The power distribution device includes: a first distribution mechanism which can distribute power to the second transmission mechanism through a first clutch c23A capable of being controlled to a half-engaged state; and a second distribution mechanism which can distribute power to the second transmission mechanism through a planetary gear mechanism 25 and a second clutch c24A capable of being controlled to a half-engaged state. An input shaft of the first distribution mechanism and an input shaft 25in of the planetary gear mechanism are integrated with each other.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 7

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 shows a four-wheel drive vehicle having a drive shaft that transmits power between a front drive shaft and a rear drive shaft. A direct-coupling clutch, a speed-up clutch, and a speed-up mechanism are provided along the drive shaft. One of the speed-up clutch and the direct-coupling clutch is controlled to be engaged and the other to be released, and the power distribution ratio between the front and rear wheels is switched by switching the clutch that is engaged. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 01-182128 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The four-wheel drive vehicle of Patent Document 1 can switch the power distribution ratio between two levels by switching the clutch that is engaged.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle that can control the power distribution ratio over a wider range both when traveling straight and when cornering, and that can realize a compact configuration. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: A power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle is mounted on a vehicle including first and second drive wheels arranged separately at the front and rear, a power source, a first transmission mechanism that transmits power from the power source to the first drive wheels, and a second transmission mechanism that transmits power to the second drive wheels, a first distribution mechanism including a first clutch that can be controlled to a semi-engaged state that is intermediate between engagement and release, and that can distribute a portion of the power output from the power source to the second transmission mechanism via the first clutch; a second distribution mechanism including a planetary gear mechanism and a second clutch controllable to the semi-engaged state, the second distribution mechanism being capable of distributing a portion of the power output from the power source to the second transmission mechanism via the planetary gear mechanism and the second clutch in sequence; Equipped with The input shaft of the first distribution mechanism and the input shaft of the planetary gear mechanism are integrated together. 、 The planetary gear mechanism includes two ring gears that mesh with the same gear, and is configured to output power input to one of the two ring gears to the other ring gear. It is characterized by the above. Effect of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, by controlling both the first clutch and the second clutch to a half-engaged state, the power distributed to the first drive wheel and the second drive wheel by the first distribution mechanism and the power distributed to the first drive wheel and the second drive wheel by the second distribution mechanism can be combined. Furthermore, by controlling the degree of engagement of the first clutch and the degree of engagement of the second clutch, the power distribution ratio of the first distribution mechanism and the power distribution ratio of the second distribution mechanism can be continuously adjusted. In addition, due to the difference in gear ratio between the first distribution mechanism and the second distribution mechanism, an internal circulating torque can be generated between the first drive wheel and the second drive wheel in the first distribution mechanism, the second distribution mechanism, or both of them. Since the internal circulating torque acts as a negative power, the internal circulating torque can widen the power distribution ratio to a range wider than 50:50-100:0 (for example, 0:100-100:0, or 30:70-100:0, etc.). On the other hand, when turning, a difference occurs between the path length of the first drive wheel and the path length of the second drive wheel, so the magnitude of the internal circulation torque changes depending on the turning radius. However, due to the difference in gear ratio between the first distribution mechanism and the second distribution mechanism, both the internal circulation torque via the first distribution mechanism and the internal circulation torque via the second distribution mechanism do not become zero. Furthermore, even when one internal circulation torque becomes excessively large, the other internal circulation torque can be suppressed to an appropriate magnitude. Therefore, by combining the power distributed by the first distribution mechanism and the power distributed by the second distribution mechanism, the power output from the power source and the power due to the internal circulation torque of an appropriate magnitude can be combined regardless of the turning radius by the above combination. Therefore, the power distribution ratio can be controlled over a wide range both when traveling straight and when turning.

[0009] Furthermore, since the second distribution mechanism has a planetary gear mechanism and the input shaft of the first distribution mechanism and the input shaft of the planetary gear mechanism are integrated, the first distribution mechanism and the second distribution mechanism can be integrated into a compact structure. In addition, this configuration has the effect of making it easy to apply the power distribution device to vehicles with a vertically mounted power source and to vehicles with a horizontally mounted power source, since there is only one input shaft.

[0010] In addition, since the first distribution mechanism has a first driven gear, the second distribution mechanism has a second driven gear, and the first driven gear and the second driven gear are arranged coaxially, the first distribution mechanism and the second distribution mechanism can be compactly arranged. Furthermore, an effect is obtained that the gear ratio of the first distribution mechanism and the gear ratio of the second distribution mechanism can be easily set to a desired value. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1A] 1 is a diagram showing a drive mechanism of a vehicle having a power distribution device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 1B] 4 is a diagram showing a drive mechanism of a vehicle having a power distribution device according to a modified example of the first embodiment. FIG. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control system of a vehicle according to the first embodiment. [Figure 3A] 4 is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of engagement of the first clutch and the power distributed to the front wheels. [Figure 3B] 6 is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of engagement of the second clutch and the power distributed to the front wheels. [Figure 4] 4 is a time chart showing an example of control of the power distribution device of the first embodiment. [Figure 5A] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of power distribution during a straight-line driving period T1 in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 5B] 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of power distribution in a turning start period T2 in FIG. 4. FIG. [Figure 6] 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a control process executed by a controller. [Figure 7] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing the configuration of a drive system of a vehicle having a power distribution device according to a second embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example in which a power distribution device of a second embodiment is mounted on a vehicle having a transversely placed power source. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0012] Hereinafter, each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In this specification, when a gear ratio from A to B is described, the gear ratio means "the rotation speed of A / the rotation speed of B". In other words, when a rotational motion is transmitted from A to B, the above gear ratio corresponds to a reduction ratio. Furthermore, when a gear ratio is described up to the front wheels 2, the gear ratio means a gear ratio during straight running in which the left and right front wheels 2 rotate at the same speed. Similarly, when a gear ratio is described up to the rear wheels 3, the gear ratio means a gear ratio during straight running in which the left and right rear wheels 3 rotate at the same speed. Furthermore, in the description of the embodiments, when a gear is described as being engaged with a shaft, the shaft and the gear rotate integrally.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) Fig. 1A is a diagram showing a drive mechanism of a vehicle having a power distribution device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. The vehicle 1 in Fig. 1 is a four-wheel drive vehicle, and includes two front wheels 2 (left and right) that function as first drive wheels and two rear wheels 3 (left and right) that function as second drive wheels. In the case of a vehicle 1 having four wheels, the four-wheel drive vehicle may be called an all-wheel drive vehicle. In the case of a vehicle having six or more wheels, the four-wheel drive vehicle may be a vehicle in which only four wheels arranged separately on the front, rear, left and right are drive wheels, or a vehicle in which six or more wheels are drive wheels.

[0014] 1, the vehicle 1 includes a power source 11, a torque converter 12 that receives the output of the power source 11 and amplifies the torque, and a transmission 13 that changes the speed of the output of the torque converter 12. The power source 11 is an engine (internal combustion engine) but may be an electric motor. The transmission 13 includes, but is not limited to, a forward / reverse switching mechanism 13a and a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) 13b. The transmission 13 transmits power to a front wheel transmission shaft 142 via a gear g13.

[0015] The vehicle 1 further includes a first transmission mechanism 14 that transmits power to the front wheels 2, a second transmission mechanism 17 that transmits power to the rear wheels 3, and a power distribution device 20 that distributes power between the first transmission mechanism 14 and the second transmission mechanism 17.

[0016] The first transmission mechanism 14 includes an input gear g141 that receives power from the transmission 13, a front wheel transmission shaft 142 that extends in the front-to-rear direction of the vehicle 1, and a differential gear 143 that distributes the rotation of the front wheel transmission shaft 142 to the left and right front wheels 2, 2. The input gear g141 is fitted to the front wheel transmission shaft 142.

[0017] The second transmission mechanism 17 includes a rear wheel transmission shaft 171 extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle 1, and a differential gear 172 that distributes the rotation of the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 to the left and right rear wheels 3, 3.

[0018] The power distribution device 20 includes a first distribution mechanism 201 and a second distribution mechanism 202, and can distribute power from the front wheel transmission shaft 142 to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 through two paths via the two distribution mechanisms. The first distribution mechanism 201 includes a first driven gear g21 engaged with an input shaft of the first distribution mechanism 201, and a first clutch c23 interposed between the input shaft and the rear wheel transmission shaft 171. The second distribution mechanism 202 includes a second driven gear g22 engaged with an input shaft of the second distribution mechanism 202, and a second clutch c24 interposed between the input shaft and the rear wheel transmission shaft 171. A drive gear g15 is engaged with the front wheel transmission shaft 142, and the drive gear g15 meshes with the first driven gear g21 and the second driven gear g22. The power distribution device 20 introduces power from the front wheel transmission shaft 142 via a drive gear g15.

[0019] Among the above components, the combination of the driving gear g15 and the first driven gear g21 corresponds to an example of the first gear mechanism of the present invention. The combination of the driving gear g15 and the second driven gear g22 corresponds to an example of the second gear mechanism of the present invention.

[0020] The first clutch c23 has an input shaft i23, an output shaft o23, a driven clutch plate, a drive clutch plate, a clutch housing, and a clutch hub. The second clutch c24 has an input shaft i24, an output shaft o24, a driven clutch plate, a drive clutch plate, a clutch housing, and a clutch hub. The first clutch c23 is, for example, a hydraulically controlled multi-plate clutch, and realizes a half-engaged state between engagement and release by hydraulic control. Here, engagement means a state in which the transmission of torque from the input shaft i23 to the output shaft o23 is almost 100%, and release means a state in which the transmission of torque from the input shaft i23 to the output shaft o23 is almost zero. The first clutch c23 can continuously change the transmission rate of torque within a predetermined range (for example, 0% to 100%) by changing the pressure of the hydraulic oil supplied. The second clutch c24 is configured similarly to the first clutch c23. The first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 may be configured such that the transmission rate of torque is continuously controlled by the power of an electric actuator.

[0021] The first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 may be disposed adjacent to each other in the axial direction (direction along the rotation axis). Furthermore, the driven clutch plates and the drive clutch plates of the first clutch c23 and the driven clutch plates and the drive clutch plates of the second clutch c24 may be the same size. The clutch housing of the first clutch c23 and the clutch housing of the second clutch c24A may be integrated. The clutch housing is engaged with the driven clutch plates of the first clutch c23 and rotates integrally therewith, and is engaged with the driven clutch plates of the second clutch c24 and rotates integrally therewith. The clutch housing is connected to the output shafts o23 and o24 and the rear wheel transmission shaft 171, and transmits power to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171.

[0022] The number of teeth of the first driven gear g21 is different from the number of teeth of the second driven gear g22. More specifically, the number of teeth of the first driven gear g21 is the same as the number of teeth of the drive gear g15, and the number of teeth of the second driven gear g22 is greater than the number of teeth of the drive gear g15.

[0023] A gear mechanism (first driven gear g21 and driving gear g15) and a differential gear 143 are interposed in the power transmission path between the input shaft i23 of the first clutch c23 and the front wheels 2. Therefore, the overall gear ratio from the input shaft i23 to the front wheels 2 (= rotation speed of the input shaft i23 / rotation speed of the front wheels 2) is determined by the gear ratio of the gear mechanism and the gear ratio of the differential gear 143. This gear ratio is called the "front side gear ratio of the first clutch c23."

[0024] A differential gear 172 is interposed in the power transmission path between the output shaft o23 of the first clutch c23 and the rear wheel 3. Therefore, the overall gear ratio from the output shaft o23 to the rear wheel 3 (= rotation speed of the output shaft o23 / rotation speed of the rear wheel 3) is determined by the gear ratio of the differential gear 172. This gear ratio is called the "rear side gear ratio of the first clutch c23."

[0025] A gear mechanism (second driven gear g22 and driving gear g15) and a differential gear 143 are interposed in the power transmission path between the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24 and the front wheels 2. Therefore, the overall gear ratio from the input shaft i24 to the front wheels 2 (= rotation speed of the input shaft i24 / rotation speed of the front wheels 2) is determined by the gear ratio of the gear mechanism and the gear ratio of the differential gear 143. This gear ratio is called the "front side gear ratio of the second clutch c24."

[0026] A differential gear 172 is interposed in the power transmission path between the output shaft o24 of the second clutch c24 and the rear wheel 3. Therefore, the overall gear ratio from the output shaft o24 to the rear wheel 3 (= rotation speed of the output shaft o24 / rotation speed of the rear wheel 3) is determined by the gear ratio of the differential gear 172. This gear ratio is called the "rear side gear ratio of the second clutch c24."

[0027] Note that a configuration having another gear ratio may be interposed in the power transmission path from the first clutch c23 or the second clutch c24 to the front wheel 2, or in the power transmission path from the first clutch c23 or the second clutch c24 to the rear wheel 3. In that case, the above-mentioned overall gear ratio is determined from the gear ratios of a plurality of configurations including the gear ratio.

[0028] A first difference, which is the difference between the front and rear gear ratios of the first clutch c23, is different from a second difference, which is the difference between the front and rear gear ratios of the second clutch c24.

[0029] More specifically, the gear ratio of the front side of the second clutch c24 is larger than the gear ratio of the rear side of the second clutch c24. The difference in the gear ratios may be such that the rear gear ratio is 0.5% to 3% larger than the front gear ratio. Due to the difference in the gear ratios, during straight running in which the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 rotate at the same speed, the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24 rotates faster than the output shaft o24 of the second clutch c24. Therefore, when the second clutch c24 is in a half-engaged state, the driving force is transmitted from the input shaft i24 to the output shaft o24, and the braking force (internal circulation torque) is transmitted from the output shaft o24 to the input shaft i24.

[0030] The front gear ratio of the first clutch c23 is equal to the rear gear ratio of the first clutch c23. Here, "equal" does not necessarily mean exact agreement, but includes agreement with a negligible error compared to the difference (0.5% to 3%) in the gear ratios related to the second clutch c24.

[0031] FIG. 1B is a diagram showing a modified example of the power distribution device according to the first embodiment. As shown in FIG. 1B, the power distribution device 20 may have two drive gears g15a and g15b with different numbers of teeth as drive gears that transmit power from the front wheel transmission shaft 142. In this modified example, one drive gear g15a meshes with the first driven gear g21, and the other drive gear g15b meshes with the second driven gear g22. This configuration increases the number of gears. However, since the number of teeth can be selected for each gear (g15a, g15b, g21, g22), it is possible to obtain an effect that the desired gear ratio can be easily achieved in the transmission path via the first driven gear g21 and the transmission path via the second driven gear g22.

[0032] Among the above components, the combination of the driving gear g15a and the first driven gear g21 corresponds to an example of the first gear mechanism of the present invention. The combination of the driving gear g15b and the second driven gear g22 corresponds to an example of the second gear mechanism of the present invention.

[0033] 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of a control system of the vehicle according to the first embodiment. The vehicle 1 further includes an auxiliary machine 31 for driving the power source 11, a driving operation unit 32 operated by the driver, a driving control unit 33 for controlling the auxiliary machine 31 in response to the operation of the driving operation unit 32, and a sensor group 34 for detecting the driving condition. The power distribution device 20 according to the first embodiment also includes hydraulic cylinders 37a and 37b for changing the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24, respectively, and a controller 35 for controlling the hydraulic cylinders 37a and 37b via control valves 36a and 36b. The hydraulic cylinders 37a and 37b may be replaced with electric actuators.

[0034] The driving operation unit 32 includes an accelerator operation unit 32a for accelerating the vehicle 1, a brake operation unit 32b for decelerating the vehicle 1, and a steering unit 32c for controlling the traveling direction of the vehicle 1. A signal indicating the operation amount of the accelerator operation unit 32a is sent to the driving control unit 33 and the controller 35. Signals indicating the operation amount of the brake operation unit 32b and the steering unit 32c are sent to the controller 35.

[0035] The sensor group 34 for detecting the driving conditions includes a vehicle speed sensor 34a, a yaw rate sensor 34b for measuring a change in the yaw angle of the vehicle 1, and a road sensor 34c for detecting that the vehicle 1 is entering a curve. The road sensor 34c may be configured to be linked to a navigation system, for example, and to predict that the vehicle 1 is entering a curve based on a set planned driving route and the current position of the vehicle 1. The detection results of the sensor group 34 are sent to the controller 35.

[0036] The driving control unit 33 is an ECU (Electronic Control Unit). The driving control unit 33 may be composed of one ECU, or may be composed of multiple ECUs that communicate with each other and operate in cooperation with each other.

[0037] The cruise control unit 33 calculates a required torque according to the operation of the accelerator operation unit 32a, and calculates a target torque by adding a predetermined constraint to the required torque. The required torque means a torque that is required to be output based on the driving operation, and the target torque means a torque that is controlled to be actually output from the power source 11. The constraints added to the required torque include, for example, a constraint that limits the torque change rate to an upper limit value or less to avoid a sudden change in torque. After calculating the target torque, the cruise control unit 33 operates the auxiliary equipment 31 so that the target torque is output from the power source 11.

[0038] The driving control unit 33 and the controller 35 have a function of transmitting a torque increase command from the controller 35 to the driving control unit 33. When the driving control unit 33 receives a torque increase command, it updates the target torque by adding the increase in torque to the target torque calculated based on the required torque.

[0039] The controller 35 is an ECU. The controller 35 may be composed of one ECU, or may be composed of multiple ECUs that communicate with each other and operate in cooperation with each other, or may be composed of a part or the whole of an ECU common to the driving control unit 33.

[0040] The controller 35 controls the degree of engagement of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 of the power distribution device 20 based on signals from the driving operation unit 32 and signals from the sensor group 34. This control realizes control of the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 according to the driving conditions of the vehicle 1.

[0041] <Function of the power distribution device 20> 3A is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of engagement of the first clutch c23 and the power distributed to the front wheels 2. The graph shows the above relationship when the steering angle of the vehicle 1 is zero (straight ahead), the second clutch c24 is disengaged, and a constant power is output from the power source 11.

[0042] When both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 are released, the power of the front wheel transmission shaft 142 is not distributed to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 at all, so the power output to the front wheels 2 becomes large. This corresponds to the state of point p0 on the graph line in Figure 3A.

[0043] On the other hand, when the first clutch c23 is engaged and the second clutch c24 is released, the power of the front wheel transmission shaft 142 is transmitted to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 via the first clutch c23. Because the rotational speed ratio between the input shaft i23 and the output shaft o23 of the first clutch c23 is 1:1 due to the setting of the front and rear gear ratios of the first clutch c23 described above, approximately half of the power is transmitted to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171, and the power output to the front wheels 2 is reduced by about half. This corresponds to the state of point p1 on the graph line in FIG. 3A.

[0044] Furthermore, when the second clutch c24 is released and the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 changes from 0% to 100%, as shown in FIG. 3A, the power output to the front wheels 2 decreases continuously from the value of point p0 to the value of point p1.

[0045] The power output from the power source 11 minus the power distributed to the front wheels 2 and losses is output to the rear wheels 3. Therefore, when the steering angle is zero and the second clutch c24 is released, the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 can be changed from about 100:0 to 50:50 by changing the degree of engagement of the first clutch c23.

[0046] 3B is a graph showing the relationship between the degree of engagement of the second clutch c24 and the power distributed to the front wheels 2. This graph shows the above relationship when the steering angle of the vehicle 1 is zero (straight ahead), the first clutch c23 is disengaged, and a constant power is output from the power source 11.

[0047] When both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 are released, the power of the front wheel transmission shaft 142 is not distributed to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 at all, so the power output to the front wheels 2 becomes large. This corresponds to the state of point p10 on the graph line in Figure 3B.

[0048] When both the front and rear wheels 2 and 3 are gripping, the rotation speed of the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24 is slightly higher than the rotation speed of the output shaft o24 due to the setting of the front and rear gear ratios of the second clutch c24 described above. Therefore, when the first clutch c23 is released and the second clutch c24 is in a semi-engaged state close to engagement, power is transmitted from the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24 to the output shaft o24, that is, from the front wheel transmission shaft 142 to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 via the second clutch c24. Therefore, traction in the driving direction is applied to the rear wheel 3. Furthermore, an internal circulating torque is generated between the front and rear wheels 2, and traction in the braking direction is applied to the front wheel 2. Therefore, the power output to the front wheel 2 is the sum of the power transmitted from the power source 11 and the braking force due to the internal circulating torque. This corresponds to the state of point p11 on the graph line in FIG. 3B.

[0049] Furthermore, when the degree of engagement of the second clutch c24 changes from 0% to close to 100% while the first clutch c23 is released, the power output to the front wheels 2 decreases from the value of point p10 to the value of point p11, as shown in Fig. 3B. At an intermediate degree of engagement, the power output to the front wheels 2 becomes almost zero. This corresponds to the state of point p12 on the graph line in Fig. 3B.

[0050] The power output from the power source 11 minus the power distributed to the front wheels 2 and losses is output to the rear wheels 3. Therefore, when the steering angle is zero, by changing the degree of engagement of the second clutch c24 from 0% at point p10 to the degree of engagement at point p12, the power distribution ratio changes in the range of front:rear = 100:0 to 0:100. However, as the degree of engagement of the second clutch c24 increases, the internal circulating torque increases, increasing losses, and so if the output of the power source 11 is constant, the power output to the front wheels 2 and rear wheels 3 decreases.

[0051] The characteristics of the power distribution device 20 shown in Figures 3A and 3B are those when the steering angle of the vehicle 1 is zero (straight running), and when the vehicle 1 turns, the internal circulating torque generated between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 changes depending on the turning radius. This is because a difference occurs between the trajectory length of the front wheels 2 and the trajectory length of the rear wheels 3. Therefore, when turning, even if the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 is fixed, the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 changes depending on the turning radius.

[0052] <Combined Action of First Distribution Mechanism 201 and Second Distribution Mechanism 202> When both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 are engaged, the first driven gear g21 and the second driven gear g22 do not move.

[0053] On the other hand, when one or both of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 are in a half-engaged state, the power described with reference to Fig. 3A and the power described with reference to Fig. 3B are combined and output to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3. By combining the power of the power source 11 and the power due to the internal circulation torque, it becomes possible to control the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 in a wide range, such as from front:rear ≈ 100:0 to front:rear ≈ 0:100. This is because the power due to the internal circulation torque acts negatively.

[0054] Furthermore, when the vehicle 1 turns, regardless of the turning radius, at least one of the first distribution mechanism 201 and the second distribution mechanism 202 does not cause the internal circulation torque generated between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 to become zero. Alternatively, even if the internal circulation torque becomes too large in one of the first distribution mechanism 201 and the second distribution mechanism 202, the internal circulation torque in the other may be suppressed to an appropriate magnitude. Therefore, regardless of the turning radius, by combining the power distributed by the first distribution mechanism 201 and the power distributed by the second distribution mechanism 202, the power can include a negative power due to an internal circulation torque of an appropriate magnitude. Therefore, it is possible to control the distribution ratio of the power to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 in a wide range, such as from front:rear ≈ 100:0 to front:rear ≈ 0:100.

[0055] The above-mentioned internal circulating torque refers to the torque transmitted from the front wheels 2 to the rear wheels 3 or vice versa in the power transmission path between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3, and means the torque absorbed by slippage of the first clutch c23 or the second clutch c24 and torsion of each mechanism in the above-mentioned power transmission path.

[0056] The power distribution ratio controllable by the power distribution device 20 is not limited to being zero, such as front:rear=100:0 to 30:70 or 100:0 to 20:80, in which case the power distributed to the front wheels 2 does not have to be zero.

[0057] <Example of control of power distribution device 20> Fig. 4 is a time chart showing an example of control of the power distribution device of embodiment 1. Fig. 5A is a diagram explaining an example of power distribution during a straight driving period T1 in Fig. 4. Fig. 5B is a diagram explaining an example of power distribution during a turning start period T2 in Fig. 4. In Figs. 5A and 5B, the composite power is shown next to the vehicle 1.

[0058] Fig. 4 shows an example of driving in which the vehicle 1 sequentially moves from going straight, turning, and then going straight again. Line A in Fig. 4 shows the power distribution ratio to the rear wheels 3 when the control of the embodiment is performed. Line B in Fig. 4 shows the power distribution ratio to the rear wheels 3 when the first clutch c23 is engaged. Line C in Fig. 4 shows the power distribution ratio to the rear wheels 3 when the second clutch c24 is engaged.

[0059] As shown by lines B and C, when the gear ratio relationship between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 is fixed, the power distribution ratio to the rear wheels 3 increases when turning compared to when going straight. Furthermore, when turning, the smaller the turning radius, the higher the power distribution ratio to the rear wheels 3. This is because the smaller the turning radius, the longer the path of the front wheels 2 becomes compared to the path of the rear wheels 3.

[0060] During the straight-traveling period T1, the controller 35 controls the second clutch c24 to be released and the first clutch c23 to be engaged or half-engaged. This control results in a power distribution of front:rear = 50:50 to 70:30, as shown by line A, and straight-traveling stability is obtained. In other words, even if a yaw moment is applied to the vehicle 1 due to an external disturbance, an anti-yaw moment acts to restore straight-traveling. FIG. 5A shows a state in which the second clutch c24 is released, the first clutch c23 is 80% engaged, and the power distribution is front:rear = 60:40.

[0061] In the turning start period T2, the controller 35 releases the first clutch c23 and increases the engagement degree of the second clutch c24. This control increases the distribution ratio of the power to the rear wheels 3, as shown by the line A. Furthermore, at this time, as shown in FIG. 5B, an internal circulating torque is generated between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3, and the braking force F2 caused by the internal circulating torque is added to the power F1 transmitted from the power source 11 to the front wheels 2, so that the resultant power F3 distributed to the front wheels 2 becomes smaller. Then, as the resultant power F3 distributed to the front wheels 2 becomes smaller, the ratio of the grip force of the front wheels 2 used in the propulsion direction is reduced, and the ratio of the grip force usable in the lateral direction increases. That is, the lateral force limit of the front wheels 2 (the limit lateral force that suppresses skidding) becomes larger. Therefore, the turning performance of the vehicle 1 is improved. Furthermore, even if the resultant power F3 of the front wheels 2 becomes smaller, the propulsion force of the vehicle 1 can be obtained from the rear wheels 3 by distributing the power to the rear wheels 3 at a high ratio. This action allows the vehicle 1 to stably transition to the cornering travel intended by the driver.

[0062] In the middle period T3 of the turn, the controller 35 puts the first clutch c23 in a half-engagement state and the second clutch c24 in a half-engagement state. Furthermore, the controller 35 gradually changes the first clutch c23 from released to engaged and the second clutch c24 from engaged to released as the turning radius becomes smaller. This control, as shown by the line A, prevents the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 from changing significantly due to the turning radius becoming smaller, and maintains the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 at an appropriate value. Therefore, as shown in FIG. 5B, the composite power F3 of the front wheels 2 is appropriately small, and the turning of the vehicle 1 can be maintained in a state where the lateral force limit of the front wheels 2 is large. Furthermore, by distributing a large proportion of power to the rear wheels 3, the propulsive force of the vehicle 1 does not decrease, and the stable turning of the vehicle 1 as intended by the driver can be realized.

[0063] During the subsequent steady circular turning period T4, the final turning period T5, and the straight driving period T6 after the turning is completed, the controller 35 maintains the first clutch c23 at a high degree of engagement and releases the second clutch c24. Due to this control and the change in turning radius, the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 is gradually returned to the ratio during straight driving toward the final turning period. Then, due to the return to the distribution ratio during straight driving, the yaw moment applied to the vehicle 1 during the turn gradually decreases, and stable straight driving is restored during the straight driving period T6.

[0064] When both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 are controlled to be in a semi-engaged state, such as during the middle period T3 described above, an internal circulating torque is generated between the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 in addition to the internal circulating torque between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3. Then, a loss occurs due to clutch slippage. The controller 35 calculates the loss energy caused by the internal circulating torque from the rotation speeds of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 and the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24. Then, the controller 35 outputs a torque increase command to the driving control unit 33. Data indicating the increase amount of torque based on the calculated loss energy is added to the increase command.

[0065] When the torque increase command is sent, the traveling control unit 33 updates the target torque by adding the torque loss to the target torque corresponding to the driving operation. The output torque of the power source 11 increases due to the update of the target torque. This control compensates for the torque loss caused by both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 being in a half-engaged state, and prevents the actual propulsive force of the vehicle 1 from significantly deviating from the propulsive force corresponding to the driving operation of the driver. The internal circulating torque generated between the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 is the torque transmitted between the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24, and means the torque absorbed by slippage of the first clutch c23 or the second clutch c24 and twisting of the mechanism between the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24.

[0066] In addition, in the turning start period T2, if the situation is such that the tires may slip, the controller 35 may estimate the slip ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 based on the output of the vehicle speed sensor 34a and the yaw rate sensor 34b. Then, the controller 35 may calculate the distribution ratio of the power of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 according to the turning radius, the vehicle speed, and the estimated slip ratio, and calculate the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the engagement degree of the second clutch c24 that realizes the distribution ratio according to the turning radius. In this case, typically, the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the engagement degree of the second clutch c24 are both calculated as the engagement degree of the half-engaged state. Then, the controller 35 matches the engagement degrees of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 to the values ​​of the respective engagement degrees obtained by the calculation, thereby realizing the distribution of the power to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 corresponding to the above situation. By such control, the turning of the vehicle 1 intended by the driver is realized.

[0067] Furthermore, when traveling on a slippery low-μ road, the controller 35 may perform feedforward control of the rotational speed ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 by changing the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 based on the time change of the steering angle expressed in the operation signal of the steering unit 32c. In addition, the controller 35 may perform feedback control of the power distribution to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 based on the rotational speed ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 detected by the vehicle speed sensor 34a. In the above feedback / feedforward control on a low-μ road, it is required to smoothly change the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 in a situation where the steering angle changes variously. This is because a sudden change in the power distribution ratio on a low-μ road hinders stable traveling. The controller 35 can smoothly change the power distribution ratio to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 even in a situation where the steering angle changes variously by controlling the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the engagement degree of the second clutch c24, which can contribute to stable traveling of the vehicle 1 on a low-μ road.

[0068] In addition, on a low μ road, the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 may slip, making it difficult to control the behavior of the vehicle 1. In such a case, in a configuration with only one of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24, the steering angle and the slip ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 may not be able to be controlled to a desired value for the power distribution ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3. In such a case, the vehicle is forced to wait without performing any control until the slip of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 is eliminated due to the resistance of the road surface or the like. On the other hand, the controller 35 of this embodiment can control the steering angle and the power distribution ratio of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 to a desired value in many situations where the slip ratios of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 are variously different by controlling the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility of the behavior of the vehicle 1 becoming uncontrollable.

[0069] <Control process of controller 35> Fig. 6 is a flowchart showing a control process executed by the controller 35. The control process in Fig. 6 is executed by the controller 35 while the vehicle 1 is traveling.

[0070] When the control process is started, the controller 35 determines whether it is time to start a predetermined control cycle (step S1), and proceeds with the process when the start timing is reached. The control cycle is set to a short time.

[0071] As the process proceeds, the controller 35 acquires the detection result of the road sensor 34c and a signal from the steering unit 32c (step S2), and estimates the traveling state of the vehicle 1 (step S3).

[0072] Next, the controller 35 determines whether the vehicle is in the start of turning (step S4), and if not, determines whether the vehicle is in the middle of turning (step S6), and if not, determines whether the vehicle is in the final stage of turning (step S13). If both are NO, the controller 35 returns the process to step S1 and waits for the start of the next control cycle. The turning targets determined in steps S4, S6, and S13 are limited to turns of a predetermined size or more, such as turns in which a certain centrifugal force or more acts on the vehicle 1, and small turns may be excluded.

[0073] If it is determined that turning has started, the controller 35 controls the first clutch c23 to be released and the second clutch c24 to be engaged (step S5), and then returns the process to step S1.

[0074] Also, if the vehicle is in the middle of turning, the controller 35 first calculates the slip ratios of the left and right front wheels 2 and the left and right rear wheels 3 based on the output of the sensor group 34 (step S7). Next, the controller 35 calculates the distribution ratio of the power of the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 suitable for the driving state from the turning radius, the vehicle speed, the yaw moment, and the slip ratio (step S8). Then, the controller 35 calculates the engagement degree of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 that realizes the distribution ratio of step S8 (step S9). Furthermore, the controller 35 calculates the loss caused by the internal circulating torque generated between the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 at the engagement degree (step S10), and outputs a torque increase command to the driving control unit 33 to compensate for the loss (step S11). Then, the controller 35 controls the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 so that the engagement degree calculated in step S9 is realized (step S12). After that, the process returns to step S1.

[0075] Map data indicating the relationship between arguments and results in each calculation of steps S8, S9, and S10 may be stored in advance in the storage unit of the controller 35. The controller 35 may then execute each calculation of steps S8, S9, and S10 using the map data. The map data may be created by running simulations or running tests of the vehicle 1.

[0076] If it is determined in steps S4, S6, and S13 that the vehicle is in the final stage of turning, the controller 35 controls the first clutch c23 to be engaged and the second clutch c24 to be released (step S14), and then returns the process to step S1.

[0077] Through the above control process, the engagement state of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 of the power distribution device 20 is switched, and power distribution to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 according to the running state of the vehicle 1 is realized.

[0078] In the above control process, an example has been shown in which the controller 35 performs the control of steps S7 to S12 in the middle of turning, but the controller 35 may perform the control of steps S7 to S12 in various driving conditions.

[0079] The above-mentioned control processing program is stored in a non-transient storage medium (non-transient computer readable medium) such as a ROM in the controller 35. The controller 35 may be configured to read the program stored in a portable non-transient storage medium and execute the program. The above-mentioned portable non-transient storage medium may store the above-mentioned control processing program.

[0080] (Embodiment 2) 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of a drive system of a vehicle having a power distribution device according to embodiment 2 of the present invention. A gear structure and a clutch structure of a power distribution device 20A according to embodiment 2 are different from those of embodiment 1. The same components as those of embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0081] The power distribution device 20A includes a planetary gear mechanism 25 having an input shaft 25in and an output shaft 25out, and a driven gear g21A fitted to the input shaft 25in. The power distribution device 20A further includes a first clutch c23A interposed between the input shaft 25in and the rear wheel transmission shaft 171, and a second clutch c24A interposed between the output shaft 25out of the planetary gear mechanism 25 and the rear wheel transmission shaft 171. The first clutch c23A has an input shaft i23 and an output shaft o23. The second clutch c24A has an input shaft i24 and an output shaft o24. A drive gear g15 is fitted to the front wheel transmission shaft 142, and the drive gear g15 meshes with the driven gear g21A. The power distribution device 20A introduces power from the front wheel transmission shaft 142 via the drive gear g15.

[0082] Among the above components, the combination of the driven gear g21A and the first clutch c23A corresponds to an example of a first power distribution mechanism according to the present invention. The combination of the driven gear g21A, the planetary gear mechanism 25, and the second clutch c24A corresponds to an example of a second power distribution mechanism according to the present invention.

[0083] The planetary gear mechanism 25 includes a fixed sun gear 25s, a pinion gear 25p meshing with the sun gear 25s, two ring gears 25ra and 25rb meshing with the pinion gear 25p, an input shaft 25in, and an output shaft 25out. The input shaft 25in is connected to one of the ring gears 25ra and rotates integrally with the ring gear 25ra. The output shaft 25out is connected to the other ring gear 25rb and rotates integrally with the ring gear 25rb. Since the two ring gears 25ra and 25rb have different numbers of teeth, the rotational motion input to the planetary gear mechanism 25 via the input shaft 25in is changed in speed and output to the output shaft 25out.

[0084] In the planetary gear mechanism 25, the input shaft 25in and the output shaft 25out are arranged coaxially. The driven gear g21A, the first clutch c23A, and the second clutch c24A are arranged coaxially with the input shaft 25in and the output shaft 25out of the planetary gear mechanism 25. The clutch plates of the first clutch c23A and the clutch plates of the second clutch c24A are arranged at the same position in the rotation axis direction (direction along the rotation axis) and on the inner side and the outer side in the radial direction (direction perpendicular to the rotation axis). Of the first clutch c23A and the second clutch c24A, one member h23 (e.g., a housing) of the first clutch c23A and one member h24 (e.g., a clutch hub) of the second clutch c24A may be integrated. The member h23 is engaged with the driven clutch plate of the first clutch c23A and rotates integrally therewith. The member h24 is engaged with the driven clutch plate of the second clutch c24A and rotates integrally therewith.

[0085] The gear ratios of the planetary gear mechanism 25, the gear mechanism (drive gear g15, driven gear g21A), and the differential gears 143, 172 are set so as to satisfy the following conditions 1 and 2.

[0086] Condition 1: The gear ratio from the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24A to the front wheels 2 is greater than the gear ratio from the output shaft o24 of the second clutch c24A to the rear wheels 3. The difference in the gear ratios may be such that the latter gear ratio is approximately 0.5% to 3% greater than the former gear ratio.

[0087] Condition 2: The gear ratio from the input shaft i23 of the first clutch c23A to the front wheels 2 is equal to the gear ratio from the output shaft o23 of the first clutch c23A to the rear wheels 3. Here, "equal" does not necessarily mean a strict match, but includes a match that includes a negligible error compared to the gear ratio difference in condition 1 (0.5% to 3%).

[0088] The controller 35 can control both the first clutch c23A and the second clutch c24A to a half-engaged state, similar to the first embodiment. Furthermore, the controller 35 can independently control the degree of engagement of the first clutch c23A in the half-engaged state and the degree of engagement of the second clutch c24A in the half-engaged state. The controller 35 controls the power distribution device 20A in accordance with the traveling state, similar to the first embodiment.

[0089] According to the power distribution device 20A of the second embodiment, the configuration for introducing power is unified into one driven gear g21A. Therefore, the power distribution device 20A of the second embodiment has an advantage that it can be easily applied to a vehicle 1B having a transversely placed power source 11. Transverse placement means an arrangement in which the axial direction of the output shaft from which power is output is substantially perpendicular to the front-rear direction of the vehicle 1.

[0090] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example in which the power distribution device according to the second embodiment is mounted on a vehicle with a transversely placed power source. As shown in FIG. 8, when applied to a transversely placed power source 11, a driven gear g21A that introduces power to the power distribution device 20A is changed from a gear (spur gear, helical gear, etc.) that transmits power between parallel shafts to a gear (bevel gear, etc.) that transmits power between intersecting shafts. Similarly, a drive gear g15 that outputs power to the power distribution device 20A is changed from a gear that transmits power between parallel shafts to a gear that transmits power between intersecting shafts. In the case of a transversely placed power source 11, the front wheel transmission shaft 142 extending in the front-rear direction of the vehicle 1 may be omitted, and the drive gear g15 may be fitted to the output shaft of the transmission 13. Furthermore, a gear mechanism for adjusting the gear ratio may be interposed between the drive gear g15 and the transmission 13.

[0091] In the configuration of FIG. 8 as well, the gear ratios of the multiple gears located on the power transmission path between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 are set so as to satisfy the following conditions 1 and 2. Condition 1: The gear ratio from the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24A to the front wheels 2 is greater than the gear ratio from the output shaft o24 of the second clutch c24A to the rear wheels 3. The difference in the gear ratios may be such that the latter gear ratio is approximately 0.5% to 3% greater than the former gear ratio. Condition 2: The gear ratio from the input shaft i23 of the first clutch c23A to the front wheels 2 is equal to the gear ratio from the output shaft o23 of the first clutch c23A to the rear wheels 3. Here, "equal" does not necessarily mean a strict match, but includes a match that includes a negligible error compared to the gear ratio difference in condition 1 (0.5% to 3%).

[0092] As described above, the power distribution device 20 of the first embodiment includes the first distribution mechanism 201 capable of distributing a part of the power output from the power source 11 to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 via the first clutch c23 that can be controlled to a semi-engaged state. Furthermore, the power distribution device 20 includes the second distribution mechanism 202 capable of distributing a part of the power output from the power source 11 to the rear wheel transmission shaft 171 via the second clutch c24 that can be controlled to a semi-engaged state. Therefore, both the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 can be controlled to a semi-engaged state. Then, by this control, the power distributed to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 by the first distribution mechanism 201 and the power distributed to the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 by the second distribution mechanism 202 can be combined. Furthermore, by controlling the degree of engagement of the first clutches c23, c23A and the degree of engagement of the second clutches c24, c24A, the power distribution ratio of the first distribution mechanism 201 and the power distribution ratio of the second distribution mechanism 202 can be continuously adjusted.

[0093] In addition, according to the power distribution device 20 of the first embodiment, the difference (first difference) between the gear ratios of the front and rear sides of the first clutch c23 is different from the difference (second difference) between the gear ratios of the front and rear sides of the second clutch c24. By setting the gear ratios in this way, an internal circulation torque can be generated between the front wheels 2 and the rear wheels 3 in the first distribution mechanism 201, the second distribution mechanism 202, or both of them. Since the internal circulation torque acts as a negative power, it becomes possible to distribute the power at a ratio in a range wider than 50:50 to 100:0 by the internal circulation torque. On the other hand, during turning, a difference occurs between the trajectory length of the front wheels 2 and the trajectory length of the rear wheels 3, so the magnitude of the internal circulation torque changes depending on the turning radius. However, by setting the gear ratios in this way, both the internal circulation torque via the first distribution mechanism 201 and the internal circulation torque via the second distribution mechanism 202 do not become zero. Furthermore, even when one internal circulation torque becomes excessively large, the other internal circulation torque can be suppressed to an appropriate magnitude. Therefore, by combining the power distributed by the first distribution mechanism 201 and the power distributed by the second distribution mechanism 202, the power output from the power source 11 and the power due to the internal circulation torque of an appropriate magnitude can be combined regardless of the turning radius. Therefore, by the above combination, the power distribution ratio can be controlled in a wide range both when traveling straight and when turning. The power distribution device 20A of the second embodiment shown in Figures 7 and 8 and the power distribution device 20 of the modified example shown in Figure 1B also have the same functions and effects.

[0094] Furthermore, according to the power distribution device 20A of the second embodiment (FIGS. 7 and 8), the mechanism (second distribution mechanism) that distributes the power via the second clutch c24A includes the planetary gear mechanism 25. The input shaft of the mechanism (first distribution mechanism) that distributes the power via the first clutch c23A is integrated with the input shaft 25in of the planetary gear mechanism 25. Therefore, the first distribution mechanism and the second distribution mechanism can be integrated into a compact structure. In addition, with this configuration, the input shaft 25in of the power distribution device 20A is unified, and therefore, as shown in FIG. 7 and FIG. 8, the power distribution device 20A can be easily applied to both the vehicle 1A in which the power source 11 is vertically arranged and the vehicle 1B in which the power source 11 is horizontally arranged.

[0095] Furthermore, the planetary gear mechanism 25 includes two ring gears 25ra, 25rb that mesh with the same pinion gear 25p, and is configured to output the power input to one ring gear 25ra to the other ring gear 25rb. With this configuration, it is possible to easily achieve a setting that provides a small difference (=0.5% to 3%) between the gear ratio from the input shaft i24 of the second clutch c24A to the front wheels 2 and the gear ratio from the output shaft o24 of the second clutch c24A to the rear wheels 3.

[0096] Furthermore, according to the power distribution device 20A of the second embodiment, the second clutch c24A is arranged coaxially with the first clutch c23A and radially outward of the first clutch c23A. This makes it possible to realize an arrangement of the first clutch c23A and the second clutch c24A that matches the planetary gear mechanism 25, and also makes it possible to reduce the axial dimension of the power distribution device 20A. This makes it possible to make the power distribution device 20A more compact.

[0097] Moreover, according to the power distribution device 20 of the first embodiment (FIGS. 1 and 2), the first distribution mechanism 201 has the first driven gear g21, and the second distribution mechanism 202 has the second driven gear g22, and the first driven gear g21 and the second driven gear g22 are arranged coaxially. Therefore, the first distribution mechanism 201 and the second distribution mechanism 202 can be compactly arranged. Furthermore, by having the first driven gear g21 and the second driven gear g22, an effect is obtained that the gear ratio of the first distribution mechanism 201 and the gear ratio of the second distribution mechanism 202 can be easily set to a desired value.

[0098] Furthermore, according to the power distribution device 20 of the first embodiment, the second clutch c24 is arranged coaxially with the first clutch c23 and aligned with the first clutch c23 in the axial direction. Therefore, it is possible to realize the arrangement of the first clutch c23 and the second clutch c24 in accordance with the first driven gear g21 and the second driven gear g22 arranged coaxially, and to reduce the radial dimension of the power distribution device 20. Therefore, it is possible to make the power distribution device 20 more compact.

[0099] Above, each embodiment of the present invention has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments. For example, in the above-mentioned embodiments, a configuration has been shown in which the power of the power source is transmitted to the front wheels without passing through the power distribution device, while being transmitted to the rear wheels via the power distribution device. However, the power of the power source may be transmitted to the rear wheels without passing through the power distribution device, while being transmitted to the front wheels via the power distribution device. Also, in the above-mentioned embodiments, a configuration has been shown in which the two power distribution mechanisms of the power distribution device are coaxially arranged and integrated, but these may be provided separately.

[0100] Also, in the first embodiment, the modified example, and the second embodiment, an example was shown in which the "gear ratio from the input shaft i23 of the first clutch (c23, c23A) to the front wheel 2" minus the "gear ratio from the output shaft o23 of the first clutch (c23, c23A) to the rear wheel 3" (first difference) is approximately zero. Also, an example was shown in which the "gear ratio from the input shaft i24 of the second clutch (c24, c24A) to the front wheel 2" minus the "gear ratio from the output shaft o24 of the second clutch (c24, c24A) to the rear wheel 3" (second difference) is a value greater than zero. However, these settings of the gear ratios are merely examples. The gear ratios may be set so that both the first difference and the second difference are greater than zero, or so that both the first difference and the second difference are less than zero, or so that the first difference is less than zero and the second difference is greater than zero. If there is a difference between the first difference and the second difference, it is possible to avoid a situation in which both the internal circulation torque via the first distribution mechanism 201 and the internal circulation torque via the second distribution mechanism 202 become zero, regardless of the turning radius. In addition, it is possible to obtain an effect that even when one internal circulation torque becomes excessively large, the other internal circulation torque can be suppressed to an appropriate magnitude. Other details shown in the embodiment can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] Cars 1, 1A, and 1B 2 Front wheels (first drive wheels) 3 Rear wheels (second drive wheels) 11 Power source 13. Transmission 14 First transmission mechanism 142 Front wheel transmission shaft 143 Differential Gear g15 Drive gear g15a Drive gear (first gear mechanism) g15b Drive gear (second gear mechanism) 17 Second transmission mechanism 171 Rear wheel transmission shaft 172 Differential gear 20, 20A power distribution device 201 1st distribution mechanism 202 Second distribution mechanism g21A Driven gear g21 1st driven gear (1st gear mechanism) g22 2nd driven gear (2nd gear mechanism) c23, c23A 1st clutch c24, c24A Second clutch i23, i24 input shaft o23, o24 Output shaft 25 Planetary gear mechanism 25in input shaft 25ra, 25rb ring gear 25out output shaft 32 Driving operation section 33 Driving control unit 34 Sensors 35 Controller 36a, 36b Control valve 37a, 37b Hydraulic cylinder

Claims

1. A power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle is mounted on a vehicle including first and second drive wheels arranged separately at the front and rear, a power source, a first transmission mechanism that transmits power from the power source to the first drive wheels, and a second transmission mechanism that transmits power to the second drive wheels, a first distribution mechanism including a first clutch that can be controlled to a semi-engaged state that is intermediate between engagement and release, and that can distribute a portion of the power output from the power source to the second transmission mechanism via the first clutch; a second distribution mechanism including a planetary gear mechanism and a second clutch controllable to the semi-engaged state, the second distribution mechanism being capable of distributing a portion of the power output from the power source to the second transmission mechanism via the planetary gear mechanism and the second clutch in sequence; Equipped with an input shaft of the first distribution mechanism and an input shaft of the planetary gear mechanism are integrated together, A power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle, characterized in that the planetary gear mechanism includes two ring gears that mesh with the same gear, and is configured to output power input to one of the two ring gears to the other ring gear.

2. 2. The power distribution device for a four-wheel drive vehicle according to claim 1, wherein the second clutch is disposed coaxially with the first clutch and radially outwardly of the first clutch.

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