Control valve

Abstract

To provide a control valve preventing slipping of a clutch due to oil leakage.SOLUTION: A control valve 100 is equipped with a valve body 40, a switching member 20, and a wire 10. The valve body can be switched between a communication state and a blocked state. The control valve communicates an air chamber C with the outside so as to move a release piston 210 in the communication state. The control valve blocks the air chamber so as to stop the release piston in the blocked state. The switching member is configured to take a neutral posture and an operation posture. The switching member brings the valve body into the blocked state in the neutral posture. The switching member brings the valve body into the communication state in the operation posture. The wire is configured to change the switching member from the neutral posture to the operation posture by clutch operation. The wire is configured to change the switching member from the operation posture to the neutral posture by the movement of the release piston.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control valve. [Background technology]

[0002] A clutch release device is provided for releasing the power transmission state in a clutch device for a vehicle (hereinafter referred to as a release operation). The release device operates a slave cylinder, for example, when the clutch pedal is operated, which causes a release bearing to move axially. This movement of the release bearing presses the center of a diaphragm spring that constitutes the clutch device, releasing the pressing force of the pressure plate on the clutch disc. In other words, the power transmission state in the clutch device is released.

[0003] Furthermore, a concentric slave cylinder (CSC) type release device is used to reduce the pedal force required during the release operation without increasing the size of the clutch release device. A CSC type release device has a release cylinder and a release piston that are mounted coaxially with the input shaft of the transmission. Supplying hydraulic or pneumatic pressure to the release cylinder operates the release piston, which moves the release bearing in the axial direction. Hereinafter, a CSC type release device that operates by air pressure will be referred to as an air-operated CSC.

[0004] A clutch device with a pneumatic CSC includes a control valve that controls the release bearing device. The control valve is connected to an air source and controls the position of the clutch release device by adjusting the amount of air supplied to the clutch release device in accordance with the amount of clutch pedal depression.

[0005] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 10-47381 (Reference 1) discloses a control valve using a hydraulic valve cylinder in a pneumatic CSC. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 10-47381 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] When the clutch release device is controlled by a control valve using a hydraulic valve cylinder, there is a risk of oil leakage from the hydraulic cylinder causing the clutch to slip.

[0008] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide a control valve that prevents clutch slippage due to oil leakage. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] (1) A control valve according to one aspect of the present invention is a control valve for controlling a clutch release device. The clutch release device has a release piston, a cylinder, and an air chamber that are movable in a release axis direction. The control valve includes a valve body, a switching member, and a wire. The valve body is switchable between a connected state and a closed state. In the connected state, the control valve connects the air chamber to the outside so as to move the release piston. In the closed state, the control valve closes the air chamber so as to stop the release piston. The switching member is configured to have a neutral position and an operating position. In the neutral position, the switching member places the valve body in a closed state. In the operating position, the switching member places the valve body in a connected state. The wire is configured to change the switching member from the neutral position to the operating position by clutch operation. The wire is configured to change the switching member from the operating position to the neutral position by movement of the release piston.

[0010] In a control valve configured in this manner, clutch operation causes the switching member to change from the neutral position to the operating position. This causes the valve body to change from a closed state to a communicating state. In the communicating state, the air chamber is connected to the outside, and the release piston moves. As the release piston moves, the switching member changes from the operating position to the neutral position. This also causes the valve body to change from a communicating state to a closed state, and the movement of the release piston stops.

[0011] Through the above operation, the control valve controls the position of the release piston relative to clutch operation, thereby controlling the clutch release device. Furthermore, because the control valve configured as described above does not use a hydraulic valve cylinder, it is possible to prevent clutch slippage due to oil leakage from the hydraulic cylinder.

[0012] (2) Preferably, the control valve further includes a valve piston. The valve piston is movably arranged. The valve piston switches the valve body between a communicating state and a closed state. The switching member has a fixed portion and an end portion. The fixed portion is immovably arranged. The end portion is connected to the valve piston. The switching member is flexible and cylindrical. The wire extends within the switching member. The wire is connected to the release piston.

[0013] (3) Preferably, the control valve further includes a valve piston. The valve piston is movably arranged. The valve piston switches the valve body between a communicating state and a closed state. The switching member is a pulley connected to the valve piston. The wire abuts against a surface of the outer circumferential surface of the switching member that faces the moving direction of the valve piston. The wire is connected to the release piston.

[0014] (4) Preferably, the communication state includes a first communication state in which the air chamber and the air source are in communication. The operating position includes a first operating position in which the valve body is in the first communication state. The switching member is configured to change from the neutral position to the first operating position when the clutch is operated to disengage the clutch. The valve body is configured to be in the first communication state when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the first operating position.

[0015] (5) Preferably, the communication state includes a second communication state in which the air chamber and the atmospheric pressure section are in communication. The operating position includes a second operating position in which the valve body is in the second communication state. The switching member is configured to change from the neutral position to the second operating position when the clutch is operated to turn on the clutch. The valve body is configured to be in the second communication state when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the second operating position.

[0016] (6) Preferably, the valve body has a first sleeve and a second sleeve. The first sleeve opens the air supply circuit when the switching member changes from a neutral position to a first operating position that places the valve body in a first communication state. The second sleeve opens the exhaust circuit when the switching member changes from a neutral position to a second operating position that places the valve body in a second communication state.

[0017] (7) Preferably, the valve body includes a silencer structure that suppresses noise when air is discharged. [Effects of the Invention]

[0018] As described above, the present invention can provide a control valve that prevents clutch slippage due to oil leakage. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0019] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and a clutch release device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a control valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3]5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a control valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a control valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 5A to 5C are diagrams illustrating the operation of a control valve according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 6] FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and clutch release device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and clutch release device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and clutch release device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and clutch release device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 10] 10 is a schematic diagram of the link mechanism portion of the control valve shown in FIG. 9 viewed from above. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve and clutch release device according to yet another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 12] 12 is a schematic diagram of the link mechanism portion of the control valve shown in FIG. 11 viewed from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0020] [First embodiment] [Overall configuration] FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a control valve 100 and a clutch release device 200 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The control valve 100 is used in the clutch release device 200. The clutch device is a device for transmitting and blocking torque from a flywheel (not shown) on the engine side to a transmission input shaft (not shown). The control valve 100 and the clutch release device 200 are connected via an air pipe (not shown). A clutch device is disposed above the clutch release device 200. A transmission (not shown) is disposed below the clutch release device 200.

[0021] In the cross-sectional view of Figure 1, line OO is the rotation axis. In the following description, the "release axis direction" refers to the direction in which clutch release device 200 extends. The lower side of Figure 1 is referred to as the "release axis direction first side," and the upper side of Figure 1 is referred to as the "release axis direction second side." Furthermore, the "radial direction" refers to the radial direction of a circle centered on rotation axis O.

[0022] [Clutch release device 200] The clutch release device 200 is a device for releasing a clutch device disposed between the engine and the transmission. That is, the clutch release device 200 releases the power transmission state of the clutch device.

[0023] The clutch release device 200 includes a cylinder 220, a release piston 210, and an air chamber C.

[0024] <Cylinder 220> The cylinder 220 has an inner cylindrical portion 221 , an outer cylindrical portion 222 , and a bottom portion 223 .

[0025] The inner cylindrical portion 221 is disposed radially outward of an input shaft (not shown) of a transmission and coaxial with the input shaft. The outer cylindrical portion 222 extends from the outer periphery of the bottom portion 223 to a second axial side. The outer cylindrical portion 222 extends approximately parallel to the inner cylindrical portion 221. An air supply port 224 for supplying air to the air chamber C is formed in the bottom portion 223.

[0026] <Release piston 210> The release piston 210 is disposed coaxially with the input shaft between the inner cylindrical portion 221 and the outer cylindrical portion 222 of the cylinder 220. The release piston 210 is movable in the axial direction along the inner cylindrical portion 221 and the outer cylindrical portion 222 of the cylinder 220.

[0027] A release bearing 211 is fitted into the end portion on the second axial side of release piston 210. A cylindrical release member 230 is attached to release bearing 211. This release member 230 abuts against the inner peripheral end portion of diaphragm spring 300 of the clutch device.

[0028] The release piston 210 is arranged to be movable in the release axial direction between an actuated position and a non-actuated position. The release piston 210 is controlled by the control valve 100 and can be switched between the actuated position and the non-actuated position.

[0029] The operating position is the final position after air has entered the air chamber C and release piston 210 has finished moving. In other words, the operating position is the position of release piston 210 when the clutch device is in the clutch-off state. The non-operating position is the final position after air has been discharged from air chamber C and release piston 210 has finished moving. In other words, the non-operating position is the position of release piston 210 when the clutch device is in the clutch-on state. The non-operating position is on the first side in the release axial direction of the operating position.

[0030] <Air chamber C> The air chamber C is defined by the cylinder 220 and the release piston 210. In detail, the air chamber C is formed by the inner circumferential cylindrical portion 221, the bottom portion 223, the outer circumferential cylindrical portion 222 of the cylinder 220, and the release piston 210.

[0031] A spring 301 that biases release piston 210 toward the second axial direction is provided in air chamber C. Release member 230 is pressed against the inner peripheral end of diaphragm spring 300 with a predetermined pressure by spring 301. When air is not supplied to air chamber C, a load acts between release member 230 and diaphragm spring 300.

[0032] [Control valve 100] The control valve 100 is attached to the clutch release device 200. The control valve 100 is arranged so that the axial direction of the clutch release device 200 and the axial direction of the control valve 100 are parallel to each other. The control valve 100 controls the clutch release device 200.

[0033] The control valve 100 includes an inner wire 10, an outer tube 20, a valve piston 30, a valve body 40, and a tubular member 60. The inner wire 10 is an example of a wire. The outer tube 20 is an example of a switching member.

[0034] <Inner wire 10> The inner wire 10 is connected to the release piston 210. The inner wire 10 is attached to a member 215 that moves together with the release piston 210. Note that the inner wire 10 may be attached directly to the release piston 210 of the clutch release device 200. The inner wire 10 is deformable. The inner wire 10 extends inside the outer tube 20. The inner wire 10 is, for example, a Bowden wire.

[0035] <Outer tube 20> The outer tube 20 is cylindrical. The inner wire 10 extends through the outer tube 20. The outer tube 20 is, for example, a Bowden wire outer tube. The outer tube 20 is disposed between the valve body 40 and a member to which a force generated by clutch operation is input. In this embodiment, the member to which a force generated by clutch operation is input is a clutch pedal.

[0036] The outer tube 20 is flexible, and therefore can be deformed when subjected to a force from the inner wire 10.

[0037] The outer tube 20 has a fixed portion 21 and an end portion 22. The fixed portion 21 is arranged between the valve body 40 and the clutch pedal so as not to move. Specifically, the fixed portion 21 is fixed by a fixing member 23 so as not to move. There are no particular limitations on the method for fixing the fixed portion 21.

[0038] The end 22 is movable in the release axis direction, that is, in the axial direction of the valve piston 30. The end 22 is attached to the valve piston 30 and moves in the release axis direction together with the valve piston 30. Therefore, the end 22 can apply a pressing force to the valve piston 30.

[0039] When the outer tube 20 assumes the first operating position, the outer tube 20 extends in an attempt to assume a straighter position compared to when the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position. As a result, the end portion 22 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. When the outer tube 20 assumes the second operating position, the outer tube 20 bends further compared to when the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position. As a result, the end portion 22 moves toward the second side in the release axial direction.

[0040] The outer tube 20 is connected to a cylindrical member 60 at the end on the clutch release device 200 side.

[0041] The tubular member 60 is connected to the end 22 of the outer tube 20. The tubular member 60 is rigid and is not deformed by the inner wire 10. The tubular member 60 has a connecting portion 61 extending perpendicular to the release axis direction, a parallel portion 62 extending parallel to the release axis direction, and a curved portion 63 connecting the connecting portion 61 and the parallel portion 62. The connecting portion 61 is connected to the end 22 of the outer tube 20. More specifically, the end 22 of the outer tube 20 is inserted into the connecting portion 61 of the tubular member 60, and the overlapping portion of the end 22 and the connecting portion 61 is crimped. This fixes the end 22 to the connecting portion 61. Therefore, the end 22 is connected to the valve piston 30 via the connecting portion 61.

[0042] The outer tube 20 is configured to be able to take a neutral position and an operating position. The operating position includes a first operating position and a second operating position. That is, in this embodiment, the outer tube 20 is configured to be able to take the neutral position, the first operating position, and the second operating position.

[0043] In the neutral position, the outer tube 20 is in a bent state. The outer tube 20 is configured to change from the neutral position to the first operating position in response to the operation of the inner wire 10 to which force due to clutch operation is input. More specifically, when the clutch is operated to disengage the clutch, the inner wire 10 is pulled and extended. The outer tube 20 is configured to change from the neutral position to the first operating position in response to being pushed by the extended inner wire 10, i.e., being operated by the inner wire 10. In the first position, the outer tube 20 is in a state approaching a straight and extended state. Furthermore, the outer tube 20 is configured to change from the first operating position to the neutral position in response to the movement of the release piston 210. Because the outer tube 20 is fixed at the fixed portion 21, only the end portion 22 moves. Because the end portion 22 is connected to the valve piston 30, the end portion 22 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction.

[0044] Furthermore, the outer tube 20 is configured to change from the neutral position to the second operating position in response to the operation of the inner wire 10 to which force due to clutch operation is input. In particular, when the clutch is operated to turn on the clutch, the inner wire 10 bends. As a result, the outer tube 20 is configured to change from the neutral position to the second operating position in response to the operation of the inner wire 10. In the second position, the outer tube 20 is further bent than in the neutral position. Furthermore, the outer tube 20 is configured to change from the second operating position to the neutral position in response to the movement of the release piston 210.

[0045] In the neutral position, the outer tube 20 puts the valve body 40 in a closed state. In the operating position, the outer tube 20 puts the valve body 40 in a communication state. Specifically, in the first operating position, the outer tube 20 puts the valve body 40 in a state where the air chamber C is in communication with the air source. In the second operating position, the outer tube 20 puts the valve body 40 in a state where the air chamber C is in communication with the atmospheric pressure section.

[0046] <Valve piston 30> The valve piston 30 is cylindrical. The valve piston 30 is movable in the release axis direction. The valve piston 30 is operated by the outer tube 20. When the outer tube 20 is in a neutral position, a load is applied to the valve piston 30 from the outer tube 20.

[0047] <Valve body 40> The valve body 40 is disposed on the first side in the release axis direction relative to the outer tube 20. The valve body 40 is connected to an air source (not shown).

[0048] The valve body 40 is switchable between a closed state and a communicating state. The communicating state includes a first communicating state and a second communicating state. That is, in this embodiment, the valve body 40 is switchable between the closed state, the first communicating state, and the second communicating state.

[0049] In the closed state, the valve body 40 closes the air chamber C so as to stop the release piston 210.

[0050] In the communication state, the valve body 40 connects the air chamber C to the outside so as to move the release piston 210. Specifically, in the first communication state, the valve body 40 connects the air chamber C to the air source. In addition, in the second communication state, the valve body 40 connects the air chamber C to an atmospheric pressure section. Here, the air source and the atmospheric pressure section correspond to the outside. The atmospheric pressure section is the section that connects to the atmosphere.

[0051] The valve body 40 is switched between a communicating state and a closed state by the valve piston 30 operated by the outer tube 20. When the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position, the valve body 40 is in the closed state. When the outer tube 20 is in the operating position, the valve body 40 is in the communicating state. More specifically, when the outer tube 20 is in the first operating position, the valve body 40 is in the first communicating state, and when the outer tube 20 is in the second operating position, the valve body 40 is in the second communicating state.

[0052] The valve body 40 is connected to the air supply port 224 of the clutch release device 200 via an air pipe. This allows the valve body 40 to send air to the air chamber C of the clutch release device 200 in the first communication state. The valve body 40 also communicates with an atmospheric pressure section (not shown). This allows the valve body 40 to exhaust air from the air chamber C in the second communication state.

[0053] The valve body 40 includes a valve cylinder 41, a first sleeve 43, a second sleeve 44, and a silencer structure 45. The valve piston 30, the first sleeve 43, and the second sleeve 44 are arranged within the valve cylinder 41 so as to be movable in the release axial direction.

[0054] The valve cylinder 41 is cylindrical and is disposed coaxially with the valve piston 30. The valve cylinder 41 has an air supply port 41a for supplying air to the clutch release device 200.

[0055] The valve cylinder 41 further has a protrusion 41b between the first sleeve 43 and the second sleeve 44. When the valve body 40 is in the closed state, the protrusion 41b abuts against the end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axis direction, thereby blocking air communication.

[0056] The first sleeve 43 is hollow and cylindrical. When the valve body 40 is in the closed state, the first sleeve 43 is biased toward the second side in the release axial direction by a first valve spring 43a. The end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axial direction abuts against the end of the second sleeve 44 on the first side in the release axial direction and a protrusion 41b of the valve cylinder 41.

[0057] The first sleeve 43 is connected to a silencer structure 45 at its end on the first side in the release axis direction. The silencer structure 45 provides a space. The silencer structure 45 also functions as an exhaust port. The silencer structure 45 suppresses the sound when air is exhausted.

[0058] The second sleeve 44 is cylindrical. The second sleeve 44 has a recess in the center that extends in the release axial direction. The valve piston 30 is inserted into this recess. Therefore, when the valve piston 30 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction, the valve piston 30 can move together with the valve piston 30.

[0059] The second sleeve 44 is biased toward the second side in the release axial direction by a second valve spring 44a. When the valve body 40 is in the closed state, the end of the second sleeve 44 on the first side in the release axial direction abuts against the end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axial direction. When the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position, the combined biasing force of the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a balances with the load from the outer tube 20.

[0060] When the valve body 40 is in the first communication state, the protrusion 41b is separated from the end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axial direction. In this state, the air supply circuit is open, and air is supplied to the air chamber C of the clutch release device 200.

[0061] When the valve body 40 is in the second communication state, a gap is formed between the end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axial direction and the end of the second sleeve 44 on the first side in the release axial direction. This state is the state in which the exhaust circuit is open. At this time, air from the clutch release device 200 is exhausted through the hollow portion of the first sleeve 43.

[0062] [Operation] The clutch device can be in a clutch-on state or a clutch-off state. When the clutch device is in the clutch-on state, the clutch disc is clamped between the pressure plate and the flywheel by the pressing force of the diaphragm spring 300. This allows power from the engine to be transmitted to the transmission. On the other hand, when the clutch device is in the clutch-off state, the clutch disc is separated from the flywheel. This prevents power from being transmitted from the engine to the transmission.

[0063] The clutch operation includes a clutch-on operation for putting the clutch device into a clutch-on state and a clutch-off operation for putting the clutch device into a clutch-off state. The clutch-off operation is the operation of stepping on the clutch pedal, and the clutch-on operation is the operation of releasing the clutch pedal. In other words, the clutch device is normally in the clutch-on state.

[0064] The operation will be explained below with reference to Figures 2 to 5. In Figures 2 to 5, dashed line A indicates the position of the tip of the valve piston 30 on the second side in the release axis direction when the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position. Dashed line B indicates the position of the end of the inner wire 10 on the clutch release device 200 side when the outer tube 20 is in the neutral position.

[0065] When the clutch device is in the clutch-on state, the clutch release device 200 is biased against the diaphragm spring 300 by the biasing force of the spring 301. At this time, as shown in Figure 2, the outer tube 20 is in a neutral position. In other words, the outer tube 20 is in a bent state. In this state, the inner wire 10 extending inside the outer tube 20 is also in a bent state.

[0066] When the clutch is released, a force from the clutch release operation is applied to the inner wire 10, pulling the inner wire 10 toward the clutch pedal. This changes the outer tube 20 from the neutral position to the first operating position shown in FIG. 3 . Specifically, the outer tube 20 is pushed by the inner wire 10 and attempts to assume a straight, extended position. At this time, because the outer tube 20 is fixed at the fixing portion 21, the end portion 22 moves toward the first side in the release axis direction. Because the end portion 22 is connected to the valve piston 30, a pressing force from the end portion 22 is applied to the valve piston 30. This causes the valve piston 30 to also move toward the first side in the release axis direction. Therefore, the second sleeve 44 moves integrally with the valve piston 30 and presses the end portion of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axis direction. This causes the first sleeve 43 to move toward the first side in the release axis direction, opening the air supply circuit that connects the air chamber C to the air source, and the valve body 40 enters the first communication state. Now that the air chamber C is connected to the air source, air is supplied to the air chamber C. When air is supplied to air chamber C, release piston 210 moves from the inactive position to the second side in the release axial direction and assumes the active position. This causes release member 230 to press against the center of diaphragm spring 300, releasing the pressing force of the pressure plate. As a result, the clutch disc separates from the flywheel, the clutch device enters the clutch-off state, and power transmission from the engine to the transmission is cut off.

[0067] Furthermore, as the release piston 210 moves from the inoperative position to the operative position, the outer tube 20 changes from the first operating position to the neutral position shown in FIG. 4. Specifically, the end of the inner wire 10 on the clutch release device 200 side moves toward the second side in the release axial direction. This loosens the inner wire 10, and the loosened inner wire 10 presses against the outer tube 20 from inside the inner circumferential surface of the outer tube 20. As a result, the outer tube 20 bends again, releasing the pressing force against the valve piston 30. Here, the valve piston 30 is biased toward the second side in the release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. This causes the end 22 of the outer tube 20 to move toward the second side in the release axial direction. Together with the end 22, the valve piston 30 also moves toward the second side in the release axial direction. As the valve piston 30 moves, the first sleeve 43 and the second sleeve 44 move to the second side in the release axial direction, and the first sleeve 43 abuts against the protrusion 41b, closing the air supply circuit. This also changes the valve body 40 from the first communicating state to the closed state, and the movement of the release piston 210 stops.

[0068] On the other hand, when the clutch is turned on, the inner wire 10 loosens. This causes the outer tube 20 to change from the neutral position to the second operating position shown in FIG. 5 . Specifically, as the inner wire 10 loosens, the outer tube 20 also bends. This releases the load of the outer tube 20 on the valve piston 30. The valve piston 30 is biased toward the second side in the release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. This causes the valve piston 30 to move toward the second side in the release axial direction. This causes the second sleeve 44 to move toward the second side in the release axial direction, creating a gap between the second sleeve 44 and the first sleeve 43. This causes the second sleeve 44 to open the exhaust circuit that connects the air chamber C to the atmospheric pressure section, and the valve body 40 enters the second communication state. In the second communication state, the valve body 40 connects the air chamber C to the atmospheric pressure section. This connection with the atmospheric pressure section allows air to be exhausted from the air chamber C. When the air pressure in air chamber C drops, release piston 210 moves from the operating position to the first side in the release axial direction and assumes the inoperable position due to the pressing force of diaphragm spring 300. This causes the clutch disc to press against the flywheel, transmitting power from the engine to the transmission.

[0069] Furthermore, as the release piston 210 moves from the release actuated position to the release inactuated position, the outer tube 20 changes from the second operating position to the neutral position shown in FIG. 2. Specifically, the end of the inner wire 10 on the clutch release device 200 side moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. This causes the outer tube 20 to extend straight, and the end 22 presses the valve piston 30. Pressed by the outer tube 20, the valve piston 30 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. The valve piston 30 presses the second sleeve 44, closing the gap between the end of the first sleeve 43 on the second side in the release axial direction and the end of the second sleeve 44 on the first side in the release axial direction, thereby closing the exhaust circuit. This also causes the valve body 40 to change from the second communicating state to the closed state, and the movement of the release piston 210 stops.

[0070] Through the above operation, control valve 100 controls the position of release piston 210 of clutch release device 200 in response to clutch operation, thereby controlling clutch release device 200. Furthermore, because control valve 100 according to one aspect of the present invention does not use a hydraulic cylinder, it is possible to prevent clutch slippage due to oil leakage from the hydraulic cylinder.

[0071] [Second embodiment] In this embodiment, the switching member is a pulley 120. The second embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the parts described below.

[0072] As shown in FIG. 6, in this embodiment, the control valve 101 includes a wire 110, a pulley 120, a connecting member 121, a second pulley 125, a valve piston 30, and a valve body 40.

[0073] The wire 110 abuts against a surface of the outer circumferential surface of the pulley 120 that faces the direction of movement of the valve piston 30. The wire 110 is connected to a release piston 210.

[0074] The pulley 120 is movable in the release axis direction. The pulley 120 is rotatable. As in the above embodiment, the pulley 120 is configured to take a neutral position, a first operating position, and a second operating position. The pulley 120 is connected to the valve piston 30 by a connecting member 121.

[0075] The connecting member 121 has a pressing portion 121A and a connecting portion 121B. The pressing portion 121A is arranged parallel to the wire 110. The pressing portion 121A is fixed to the valve piston 30. The connecting portion 121B connects the pressing portion 121A and the pulley 120. This allows the valve piston 30 to move together with the pulley 120.

[0076] The second pulley 125 is disposed between the pulley 120 and the clutch release device 200. The second pulley 125 is disposed on the opposite side of the pulley 120 in the release axis direction, with the wire 110 sandwiched between them. As a result, the wire 110 is disposed in a state where tension is maintained between the pulley 120 and the second pulley 125. As a result, the wire 110 is deformed, and can be operated to change the pulley 120 between the neutral position and the operating position.

[0077] When pulley 120 assumes the first operating position, pulley 120 moves to the second side in the release axis direction compared to when pulley 120 is in the neutral position. When pulley 120 assumes the second operating position, pulley 120 moves to the first side in the release axis direction compared to when pulley 120 is in the neutral position.

[0078] [Operation] When a clutch-off operation is performed, the force caused by the clutch-off operation is input to wire 110, pulling wire 110. As a result, the abutting portion of wire 110 with pulley 120 is pushed by wire 110. As a result, pulley 120 moves to the first side in the axial direction. In this way, pulley 120 changes from the neutral position to the first operating position.

[0079] At this time, because the pulley 120 is connected to the valve piston 30 via the connecting member 121, the load from the pulley 120 is applied to the valve piston 30 via the connecting member 121. As a result, the valve piston 30 moves together with the pulley 120 toward the first side in the release axial direction. Therefore, similar to the above embodiment, the valve body 40 enters the first communication state. As a result, the release piston 210 moves from the inoperative position to the operative position.

[0080] Furthermore, as the release piston 210 moves from the inactive position to the active position, the wire 110 loosens. This releases the load of the wire 110 on the valve piston 30. The valve piston 30 is biased toward the first side in the release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. This causes the valve piston 30 to move toward the first side in the release axial direction. Because the pulley 120 is connected to the valve piston 30, the pulley 120 also moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. In this way, the pulley 120 changes from the first operating position to the neutral position. This also causes the valve body 40 to move from the first communicating state to the closed state, and the movement of the release piston 210 stops.

[0081] On the other hand, when an operation is performed to turn the clutch on, the force generated by the clutch operation is released from the wire 110, further loosening the wire 110. This reduces the load from the wire 110 applied to the pulley 120. As a result, the load of the wire 110 on the valve piston 30 is released. Here, the valve piston 30 is biased toward the first side in the release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. This causes the valve piston 30 to move toward the first side in the release axial direction. Because the pulley 120 is connected to the valve piston 30, the pulley 120 also moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. In this way, the pulley 120 changes from the neutral position to the second operating position. Because the pulley 120 is connected to the valve piston 30, the valve piston 30 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. Therefore, the valve body 40 enters the second communicating state, as in the above embodiment. As a result, the release piston 210 moves from the actuated position to the inactuated position.

[0082] Furthermore, as release piston 210 moves from the release actuated position to the release inactuated position, wire 110 is pulled again. As a result, the portion of wire 110 that abuts against pulley 120 moves toward the second side in the release axial direction, and pulley 120 moves toward the second side in the release axial direction. In this way, pulley 120 changes from the second operating position to the neutral position. As a result, valve body 40 also moves from the first communicating state to the closed state, and movement of release piston 210 stops.

[0083] [Other embodiments] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and alterations are possible without departing from the scope of the present invention.

[0084] Variation 1 In the first embodiment, the pulley 120 and the valve piston 30 are connected by the connecting member 121. However, this is not particularly limited. As shown in Fig. 7, the pulley 120 may be directly connected to the valve piston 30.

[0085] In this modification, the wire 110 abuts against the surface of the outer circumferential surface of the pulley 120 that faces the direction of movement of the valve piston 30 and is on the opposite side to the valve piston 30. The pulley 120 and the second pulley 125 are arranged on the same side with respect to the wire 110.

[0086] The operation in this modification is the same as that of the above modification 1, except that the pulley 120 presses the valve piston 30 without the intermediation of the connecting member 121, and the direction of the operation is reversed.

[0087] Variation 2 In the second embodiment described above, the second pulley 125 is provided, but this is not particularly limited. As shown in Fig. 8, the valve body 40 may be operated only by the pulley 120, without providing the second pulley 125.

[0088] Variation 3 In the first embodiment, the outer tube 20, which is the switching member, directly presses the valve piston 30. However, this is not particularly limited. The cylindrical member 160, which is the switching member, may press the valve piston 30 via another member. For example, as shown in Figures 9 and 10, the cylindrical member 160 may press the valve piston 30 via a link mechanism 150.

[0089] In this modification, the control valve 100 includes a link mechanism 150, a wire 110, a cylindrical member 160, an outer tube 320, a valve piston 30, and a valve body 40.

[0090] The link mechanism 150 includes a first link 151 and a second link 152 .

[0091] The first link 151 is in the shape of a long, thin plate. The first link 151 includes a first end 151A, a second end 151B, and a fulcrum portion 151C. The first end 151A is connected to the valve body 40. The first end 151A is immovable in the release axis direction. The second end 151B is rotatably connected to the second link 152. The second end 151B is movable in the release axis direction. The fulcrum portion 151C is disposed on the side that abuts against the valve piston 30. The fulcrum portion 151C protrudes from the first link 151 toward the valve piston 30. In this modified example, the fulcrum portion 151C protrudes toward the first side in the release axis direction. The first link 151 abuts against the tubular member 160 on the surface opposite the fulcrum portion 151C.

[0092] The second link 152 has a long, thin plate shape. The second link 152 includes a third end 152A and a fourth end 152B. The third end 152A is connected to the second end 151B of the first link 151. The fourth end 152B fixes the fixing portion 160B of the cylindrical member 160.

[0093] The wire 110 is connected to the clutch release device 200 at the end on the clutch release device 200 side.

[0094] The outer tube 320 has an end 322 .

[0095] Cylindrical member 160 is connected to end 322 of outer tube 320. Cylindrical member 160 is inflexible and is not deformed by wire 110. Cylindrical member 160 has connecting portion 160A extending perpendicular to the release axis direction, fixed portion 160B extending parallel to the release axis direction, and curved portion 160C connecting connecting portion 160A and fixed portion 160B. Connecting portion 160A is connected to end 322 of outer tube 320. Fixed portion 160B is fixed to link mechanism 150.

[0096] [Operation] When a clutch-off operation is performed, a force due to the clutch-off operation is input to wire 110, and wire 110 is pulled. Pulled by wire 110, tubular member 160 changes from the neutral position to the first operating position. The details are as follows. The end of inner wire 10 on the release piston 210 side is connected to release piston 210. Because the pressing force of diaphragm spring 300 is applied to release piston 210, release piston 210 is stationary. In other words, the end of wire 110 on the release piston 210 side does not move at this point. Therefore, when wire 110 is pulled, wire 110 presses curved portion 160C of tubular member 160 from the inner circumferential surface side of curved portion 160C toward the first side in the release axis direction. As a result, fixed portion 160B of tubular member 160 moves toward the first side in the release axis direction, and tubular member 160 changes to the first operating position. Because fixed portion 160B of cylindrical member 160 is fixed to second link 152, second link 152 also moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. Here, because first end 151A of first link 151 is fixed to valve body 40, second end 151B of first link 151 moves toward the first side in the release axial direction. As a result, fulcrum portion 151C of first link 151 presses valve piston 30 toward the first side in the release axial direction. Therefore, similar to the above embodiment, valve body 40 enters the first communication state. As a result, release piston 210 moves from the inactive position to the active position.

[0097] Furthermore, as the release piston 210 moves from the inactive position to the active position, the wire 110 loosens. This releases the pressing force of the wire 110 on the curved portion 160C. Accordingly, the pressing force from the cylindrical member 160 on the valve piston 30 via the fulcrum portion 151C of the first link 151 is also released. Here, the valve piston 30 is biased toward the second side in the release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. Therefore, the valve piston 30 moves toward the second side in the release axial direction. As the valve piston 30 moves, the first sleeve 43 and the second sleeve 44 move toward the second side in the release axial direction, and the first sleeve 43 abuts against the protrusion 41b, closing the air supply circuit. This also causes the valve body 40 to change from the first communicating state to the closed state, and the movement of the release piston 210 stops.

[0098] On the other hand, when the clutch is engaged, the force exerted by the clutch operation is released from the wire 110, further loosening the wire 110. The deformed wire 110 presses the outer tube 320 from the inner circumferential surface of the tubular member 160 toward the second release axial direction. Accordingly, the pressing force from the tubular member 160 to the valve piston 30 via the fulcrum portion 151C of the first link 151 is also reduced. The valve piston 30 is biased toward the second release axial direction by the first valve spring 43a and the second valve spring 44a. Therefore, the valve piston 30 moves toward the second release axial direction. As the valve piston 30 moves, the tubular member 160 moves toward the second release axial direction. In this way, the tubular member 160 changes from the neutral position to the second operating position. Therefore, the valve body 40 enters the second communication state, as in the above embodiment. As a result, the release piston 210 moves from the actuated position to the inactuated position.

[0099] Furthermore, as the release piston 210 moves from the release actuated position to the release inactuated position, the wire 110 is pulled again. As a result, the wire 110 presses the curved portion 160C of the tubular member 160 from the inner peripheral surface side of the tubular member 160 toward the first side in the release axis direction, causing the tubular member 160 to change from the second operating position to the neutral position. In other words, the tubular member 160 moves toward the first side in the release axis direction and presses the valve piston 30 via the fulcrum portion 151C of the first link 151. The valve body 40 also changes from the first communicating state to the closed state, and the movement of the release piston 210 stops.

[0100] In this embodiment, the link mechanism 150 can convert the oblique force from the wire 110 into a load parallel to the valve piston 30. Therefore, the clutch-off operation can be performed with a smaller force.

[0101] Variation 4 In the third modification, the control valve 100 has the link mechanism 150 including the first link 151 and the second link 152. However, this is not particularly limited. As shown in Figures 11 and 12, the link mechanism 150 may further include a third link 153.

[0102] The third link 153 is in the shape of a long, thin plate. The third link 153 includes a fifth end 153A, a sixth end 153B, and a second fulcrum portion 153C. The fifth end 153A is rotatably connected to the valve body 40. The fifth end 153A is immovable in the release axis direction. The sixth end 153B is rotatably connected to the valve body 40. The sixth end 153B is immovable in the release axis direction. The second fulcrum portion 153C is disposed on the side that abuts against the valve piston 30. The second fulcrum portion 153C protrudes from the third link 153 toward the valve piston 30. In this modified example, the second fulcrum portion 153C protrudes toward the first side in the release axis direction. The third link 153 abuts against the fulcrum portion 151C of the first link 151 on the surface opposite to the second fulcrum portion 153C.

[0103] In this embodiment, the pressing force from the cylindrical member 160 is input to the third link 153 via the first link 151. This makes it possible to more efficiently convert the oblique force from the wire 110 into a load parallel to the valve piston 30. As a result, the clutch-off operation can be performed with even less force.

[0104] Variation 5 In the above embodiment, the switching member changes its position from the neutral position to the first operating position, from the first operating position to the neutral position, from the neutral position to the second operating position, and from the second operating position to the neutral position during both clutch operations, i.e., the clutch-off operation and the clutch-on operation. However, this is not particularly limited. The switching member may change its position only during the clutch-off operation. Alternatively, the switching member may change its position only during the clutch-on operation.

[0105] Variation 6 In the above embodiment, the control valve 100 controls the position of the release piston 210 in response to clutch operation by the clutch pedal. However, this is not particularly limited. For example, the control valve 100 may control the position of the clutch release device 200 in response to clutch operation by other means.

[0106] Variation 7 In the above embodiment, the valve body 40 includes a first sleeve 43 and a second sleeve 44. However, this is not particularly limited. For example, the valve body 40 may have only one valve.

[0107] Variation 8 In the above embodiment, the valve body 40 is arranged so that the release axis direction and the direction in which the valve body 40 extends are parallel to each other. However, this is not particularly limited. For example, the release axis direction and the direction in which the valve body 40 extends may be arranged so that they are perpendicular to each other.

[0108] Variation 9 The shape and configuration of the clutch release device 200 are not limited to those in the above embodiment, and various modifications are possible. [Explanation of symbols]

[0109] 10 Inner wire (example of wire) 20 Outer tube (an example of a switching member) 21 Fixed part 22 End 30 valve piston 40 Valve body 41 Valve Cylinder 43 First Sleeve 44 Second Sleeve 100, 101 Control valve 110 Wire 120 Pulley (an example of a switching member) 121 Connecting member 150 Link mechanism 200 Clutch release device 210 Release piston 320 outer tube 321 End (an example of a switching member) C Air chamber

Claims

1. A control valve for controlling a clutch release device having a release piston, a cylinder, and an air chamber that are movable in a release axis direction, a valve body that is switchable between a communication state in which the air chamber is connected to the outside so as to move the release piston, and a closed state in which the air chamber is closed so as to stop the release piston; a switching member configured to be in a neutral position where the valve body is in the closed state and an operating position where the valve body is in the communicating state; a wire configured to change the switching member from the neutral position to the operating position by a clutch operation, and to change the switching member from the operating position to the neutral position by movement of the release piston; a valve piston that is movably disposed and switches the valve body between the communicating state and the closed state, the switching member has a fixed portion that is immovably disposed and an end portion that is connected to the valve piston, and is a flexible cylindrical member; The wire extends through the switching member and is connected to the release piston. Control valve.

2. A control valve for controlling a clutch release device having a release piston, a cylinder, and an air chamber that are movable in a release axial direction, a valve body that is switchable between a communication state in which the air chamber is connected to the outside so as to move the release piston, and a closed state in which the air chamber is closed so as to stop the release piston; a switching member configured to be in a neutral position where the valve body is in the closed state and an operating position where the valve body is in the communicating state; a wire configured to change the switching member from the neutral position to the operating position by a clutch operation, and to change the switching member from the operating position to the neutral position by movement of the release piston; a valve piston that is movably disposed and switches the valve body between the communicating state and the closed state, the switching member is a pulley connected to the valve piston; The wire abuts against a surface of the outer circumferential surface of the switching member that faces the movement direction of the valve piston, and is connected to the release piston. Control valve.

3. the communication state includes a first communication state in which the air chamber and the air source are communicated with each other; the operating postures include a first operating posture in which the valve body is in the first communication state, The switching member is configured to change from the neutral position to the first operating position when a clutch operation is performed to disengage the clutch, the valve body is configured to be in the first communication state when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the first operating position.

3. A control valve according to claim 1 or 2.

4. the communication state includes a second communication state in which the air chamber and the atmospheric pressure section are communicated with each other, the operating position includes a second operating position in which the valve body is in the second communication state, The switching member is configured to change from the neutral position to the second operating position when a clutch operation is performed to turn the clutch on, the valve body is configured to be in the second communication state when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the second operating position. A control valve according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. The valve body includes a first sleeve and a second sleeve. the first sleeve opens the air supply circuit when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the first operating position that places the valve body in the first communicating state; the second sleeve opens the exhaust circuit when the switching member changes from the neutral position to the second operating position that places the valve body in the second communicating state.

5. A control valve according to claim 4 when dependent on claim 3.

6. The valve body includes a silencer structure that suppresses noise when air is discharged. A control valve according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

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