Selectable One-Way Clutch

Abstract

This selectable one-way clutch provides a small rotational movement of the selectable plate when switching between one-way mode and free mode. [Solution] The selectable plate of the selectable one-way clutch has a switching portion located radially inward of the first claw member. The switching portion has a first small-diameter portion whose outer diameter is smaller than the radial inner end of the first engagement surface, and a first large-diameter portion whose outer diameter is larger than the radial outer end of the first engagement surface. A convex portion is formed on the lower surface of the first claw portion, projecting radially inward. When the first small-diameter portion is located radially inward of the first claw portion, and the tip surface is in contact with the first engagement surface, the apex of the convex portion is located radially outward of one end of the lower surface and radially inward of the outer circumferential surface of the first large-diameter portion. When the apex rides up onto the first large-diameter portion, one end of the lower surface is located radially outward of the radial outer end of the first engagement surface.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a selectable one-way clutch.

Background Art

[0002] A selectable one-way clutch has an outer ring and an inner ring that are rotatable relative to each other. A plurality of tooth portions are formed on the outer peripheral surface of the inner ring. A plurality of claw members are provided on the inner peripheral side of the outer ring. The claw member has a shaft portion rotatably supported by the outer ring and a claw portion protruding from the shaft portion. The claw portion is biased radially inward by a biasing mechanism. When the claw portion moves radially inward, it meshes with the tooth portion and torque is transmitted from the inner ring to the outer ring.

[0003] As shown in Patent Document 1 below, the selectable one-way clutch has a selectable plate that controls the posture of the claw member. The selectable plate is attached to the outer ring so as to be rotatable relative thereto. The selectable plate has a switching portion disposed on the inner peripheral side of the claw member. The switching portion has a small-diameter portion smaller than the outer diameter of the inner ring and a large-diameter portion larger than the outer diameter of the inner ring. In the one-way mode, the small-diameter portion is disposed radially inward of the claw portion. Thus, the claw portion can come into contact with the tooth portion. On the other hand, when switching from the one-way mode to the free mode, the large-diameter portion slips radially inward of the claw portion and lifts the claw portion radially outward. Thus, the claw portion does not contact the tooth portion.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Next, we will explain in detail the action by which the large-diameter portion lifts the claw portion radially outward. In the following explanation, the surface of the claw portion that faces radially inward (the surface that the large-diameter portion contacts) is referred to as the bottom surface. One end of the bottom surface refers to the end on the tip surface side of the claw portion. The other end of the bottom surface refers to the end on the shaft side. Furthermore, the claw member is the claw member that transmits the torque in the first rotational direction of the inner ring. In other words, the claw portion extends in the second rotational direction relative to the shaft portion.

[0006] In one-way mode, the small diameter portion is positioned radially inward of the claw portion, and the large diameter portion is positioned radially inward of the shaft portion. When the selectable plate rotates in the second rotational direction, it switches from one-way mode to free mode. At this point, as the large diameter portion moves in the second rotational direction, it contacts the lower surface of the claw portion. The contact point of the large diameter portion gradually moves from the other end of the lower surface towards the one end. When the contact point of the large diameter portion reaches one end of the lower surface, the entire claw portion rides up onto the large diameter portion. Thus, in conventional selectable one-way clutches, the large diameter portion moves to the radially inward side of the tip surface of the claw portion (one end of the lower surface).

[0007] In recent years, there has been a demand to reduce the amount of rotation (movement of the large-diameter part) of the selectable plate required to lift the entire claw section, thereby shortening the response time when switching between one-way mode and free mode.

[0008] This disclosure has been made in view of the above, and aims to provide a selectable one-way clutch in which the amount of rotation of the selectable plate is small when switching between one-way mode and free mode. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] To achieve the above objective, a selectable one-way clutch according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises an annular outer ring, an inner ring disposed on the inner circumference side of the outer ring, a plurality of first claw members provided on the inner circumference side of the outer ring and transmitting torque in a first rotational direction of the inner ring to the outer ring, and a selectable plate for controlling the posture of the first claw members. The axial direction is parallel to the rotation axis of the inner ring. A plurality of teeth are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring. The teeth extend radially and have a first engagement surface facing the first rotational direction. The first claw member has a first shaft portion rotatably supported by the outer ring, and a first claw portion extending from the first shaft portion in a second rotational direction and engaging with the teeth. The selectable plate has a switching portion disposed radially inward of the first claw member. The switching portion has a first small-diameter portion whose outer diameter is smaller than the radial inner end of the first engagement surface, and a first large-diameter portion which is positioned in the first rotational direction of the first small-diameter portion and whose outer diameter is larger than the radial outer end of the first engagement surface. The first claw portion has a tip surface that engages with the first engagement surface and a lower surface facing radially inward. One end of the lower surface is the end of the lower surface closer to the tip surface. A convex portion is formed on the lower surface that protrudes radially inward. The apex of the convex portion is positioned closer to the first shaft portion than the one end of the lower surface. When the first small-diameter portion is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion, and the tip surface and the first engagement surface are in contact, the apex is positioned radially outward from the one end of the lower surface and radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the first large-diameter portion. When the apex rides up onto the first large-diameter portion, the one end of the lower surface is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end of the first engagement surface. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the selectable one-way clutch of this disclosure, the free mode is activated when the apex of the convex portion rides up onto the large-diameter portion. Therefore, the large-diameter portion does not need to move to the radially inward end of one end of the lower surface, and the amount of rotation of the selectable plate is reduced. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a view of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1 from a first direction. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a cross-sectional view of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, cut in the axial direction. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a view from the first direction of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, with the selectable plate and retaining ring removed. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an enlarged view of the containment space shown in Figure 3. [Figure 5] Figure 5 shows the first claw member in one-way mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the lower surface of the first claw member in Figure 5. [Figure 7] Figure 7 shows the first claw member of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction, in the process of switching from one-way mode to free mode. [Figure 8] Figure 8 shows the first claw member in free mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a view of the first claw member of the modified example 1 from the first direction. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a view of the first claw member of the modified example 2 from the first direction. [Figure 11] Figure 11 shows the first and second claw members in the bidirectional lock mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction. [Figure 12] Figure 12 shows the first and second claw members in one-way mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction. [Figure 13] Figure 13 shows the first and second claw members in free mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction.

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] Embodiments for implementing the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. The present disclosure is not limited by the content described in the following description. Also, the constituent elements described below include those that can be easily assumed by those skilled in the art and substantially identical ones. Furthermore, the constituent elements described below can be combined as appropriate.

[0013] (Embodiment 1) FIG. 1 is a view of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1 as viewed from the first direction. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1 cut axially. In FIG. 1, dots are attached to the selectable plate 50 for easy viewing. Also, in FIG. 1, a part of the selectable plate 50 (plate body 51) is cut out to show the inside of the selectable one-way clutch 100. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the selectable one-way clutch 100 of Embodiment 1 includes an inner ring 1, an outer ring 10, three first claw members 30 (see FIG. 3), three first biasing mechanisms 40 (see FIG. 3), a selectable plate 50, and a retaining ring 80.

[0014] The selectable one-way clutch 100 is used, for example, in a vehicle drive device mounted on a vehicle. The vehicle drive device is a device that generates torque with a drive source such as an engine, transmits the torque to drive wheels, and rotates the drive wheels. And in the vehicle drive device, the selectable one-way clutch​​​The details of the selectable one-way clutch 100 will be described below. The direction parallel to the rotation axis O1 of the inner ring 1 is referred to as the axial direction. As shown in FIG. 2, in the axial direction, the direction in which the selectable plate 50 is arranged as viewed from the inner ring 1 is referred to as the first direction X1. The direction opposite to the first direction X1 is referred to as the second direction X2. In addition, the direction orthogonal to the rotation axis O1 is referred to as the radial direction. Regarding the rotation direction, as shown in FIG. 1, the description will be based on the case when viewed from the first direction X1. When the rotation direction is counterclockwise (left-handed) as viewed from the first direction X1, it is referred to as the first rotation direction L1. When the rotation direction is clockwise (right-handed) as viewed from the second direction X2, it is referred to as the second rotation direction L2.

[0016] FIG. 3 is a view of the selectable one-way clutch according to Embodiment 1, as viewed from the first direction, with the selectable plate and the retaining ring removed. As shown in FIG. 3, the inner ring 1 is an annular component. On the inner peripheral side of the inner ring 1, an input shaft (not shown) of a vehicle drive device is inserted. A plurality of female splines 2 are formed on the inner peripheral surface of the inner ring 1. Thereby, the inner ring 1 is connected to the input shaft in a non-rotatable relative manner. Also, when the input shaft rotates, the inner ring 1 rotates about the rotation axis O1. A plurality of tooth portions 3 are formed on the outer peripheral side of the inner ring 1.

[0017] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of the accommodation space in FIG. 3. As shown in FIG. 4, the tooth portion 3 has a first engagement surface 4 and a riding-up surface 5. The first engagement surface 4 extends in the radial direction and faces the first rotation direction L1. The riding-up surface 5 is located radially inward as it goes from the radially outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4 toward the second rotation direction L2. And the end portion of the riding-up surface 5 in the second rotation direction L2 is connected to the radially inner end 4b of the first engagement surface 4. The radially outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4 is the maximum outer diameter of the inner ring 1. The radially inner end 4b of the first engagement surface 4 is the minimum outer diameter of the inner ring 1.

[0018] As shown in Figure 3, the outer ring 10 is an annular component. The outer ring 10 is connected to an output shaft (not shown) of a vehicle drive system and is supported by the output shaft in a way that prevents rotation. The inner circumferential surface 11 of the outer ring 10 has a larger diameter than the outer diameter of the inner ring 1. The inner ring 1 is positioned on the inner side of the outer ring 10, and the outer ring 10 and the inner ring 1 are arranged coaxially. Three first housing spaces 20 are formed at equal intervals on the inner side of the outer ring 10.

[0019] As shown in Figure 4, the first housing space 20 includes a shaft housing space 21, a claw housing space 22 positioned in a second rotational direction L2 relative to the shaft housing space 21, and a spring housing space 23 positioned radially outward from the claw housing space 22.

[0020] The shaft housing space 21 accommodates the first shaft portion 31 of the first claw member 30. The shaft housing space 21 has an opening 24 that opens inward in the second rotational direction L2 and radially. As a result, the inner circumferential surface 25 of the shaft housing space 21 is formed in a C shape when viewed from the axial direction. The opening 24 also connects the shaft housing space 21 and the claw housing space 22. The distance between the two ends of the inner circumferential surface 25 (width of the opening 24) is H1.

[0021] The first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30 is housed in the claw portion housing space 22. The claw portion housing space 22 opens radially inward from the inner circumferential surface 11 of the outer ring 10. The first biasing mechanism 40 is housed in the spring housing space 23. The spring housing space 23 opens radially inward and is continuous with the claw portion housing space 22.

[0022] The first claw member 30 has a first shaft portion 31 and a first claw portion 32 protruding from the first shaft portion 31. The first shaft portion 31 is circular when viewed from the axial direction. The first shaft portion 31 is rotatably housed in the shaft portion housing space 21. The outer diameter of the first shaft portion 31 is larger than the width H1 of the opening 24. Therefore, the first shaft portion 31 does not fall out of the opening 24 into the claw portion housing space 22. Details of the first claw portion 32 will be described later.

[0023] The first biasing mechanism 40 includes a spring 41. The spring 41 is housed in a spring housing space 23. The spring 41 is positioned to be shorter than its natural length. Therefore, the spring 41 biases the first claw portion 32 so that it moves radially inward. In this embodiment, the first biasing mechanism 40 consists only of the spring 41, but the first biasing mechanism 40 of this disclosure may also include a support portion that supports the spring 41.

[0024] As shown in Figure 3, the outer ring 10 has a first end face 12 facing a first direction X1. The first housing space 20 opens in the first direction X1, and the first housing space 20 is exposed from the first end face 12. Therefore, the first claw member 30 and the first biasing mechanism 40 can be assembled into the first housing space 20 from the first direction X1. Also, as shown in Figure 2, a wall portion 19 is formed in the second direction X2 of the first housing space 20, and the second direction X2 of the first housing space 20 is closed.

[0025] As shown in Figure 2, a projection 13 is formed on the first end face 12, projecting in the first direction X1. As shown in Figure 3, the projection 13 extends circumferentially along the outer edge of the first end face 12. In addition, two notches 16 are formed on the projection 13, cutting out a portion of the circumferential direction. Thus, the projection 13 is composed of a pair of arc-shaped partial projections 13A and 13B.

[0026] As shown in Figure 3, grooves 15 are formed on the inner circumferential surfaces 14 of the pair of partial protrusions 13A and 13B, recessing radially outward (see also Figure 2). These grooves 15 extend in the circumferential direction and are formed along the entire circumferential surface 14. A C-shaped retaining ring 80 is fitted into the grooves 15 when viewed from the axial direction.

[0027] The selectable plate 50 is a component for controlling the orientation of the first claw member 30. As shown in Figure 1, the selectable plate 50 has an annular plate body 51, a switching portion 60 protruding from the plate body 51 in a second direction X2, and a connecting portion 70 protruding radially outward from the plate body 51.

[0028] The outer circumferential surface 52 and inner circumferential surface 53 of the plate body 51 are formed in a circular shape when viewed from the axial direction. As shown in Figure 2, the plate body 51 is located in the first direction X1 of the outer ring 10 and on the inner circumferential side of the protrusion 13. A retaining ring 80 is located in the first direction X1 of the plate body 51. Therefore, the plate body 51 is rotatably attached to the outer ring 10 without falling off from the outer ring 10 in the first direction X1. In addition, the plate body 51 closes the first direction X1 of the first housing space 20. As a result, the first claw member 30 and the first biasing mechanism 40 do not fall off from the first housing space 20.

[0029] As shown in Figure 2, the switching section 60 protrudes in the second direction X2 from the surface 54 of the plate body 51 in the second direction X2. The switching section 60 is located on the inner circumference side of the outer ring 10. In other words, the switching section 60 is located radially inward of the first claw member 30.

[0030] As shown in Figure 1, the switching section 60 extends circumferentially along the inner edge of the plate body 51 and is annular in shape. The switching section 60 has a first large-diameter section 61 with a larger outer diameter and a first small-diameter section 62 with a smaller outer diameter than the first large-diameter section 61. Corresponding to the number of first claw members 30 (3), there are three first large-diameter sections 61 and three first small-diameter sections 62.

[0031] Figure 5 shows the first claw member in one-way mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction. The outer diameter of the first large-diameter portion 61 is larger than the maximum outer diameter of the inner ring 1. In other words, the outer circumferential surface 63 of the first large-diameter portion 61 is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4. Therefore, when the first large-diameter portion 61 is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion 32, the first claw portion 32 is lifted radially outward, and the first claw portion 32 does not engage with the first engagement surface 4 (see Figure 8).

[0032] Furthermore, when the first claw portion 32 is lifted, torque is not transmitted to the outer ring 10 even if the inner ring 1 rotates in the first rotational direction L1 and the second rotational direction L2. Hereinafter, the case in which the first large-diameter portion 61 is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion 32 will be referred to as the free mode.

[0033] On the other hand, the outer diameter of the first small-diameter portion 62 is smaller than the minimum outer diameter of the inner ring 1. In other words, the outer circumferential surface 64 of the first small-diameter portion 62 is positioned radially inward from the radial inner end 4b of the first engagement surface 4. Therefore, when the first small-diameter portion 62 is positioned radially inward from the first claw portion 32, the tip of the first claw portion 32 can contact the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring 1.

[0034] Here, when the inner ring 1 rotates in the first rotational direction L1, the tip of the first claw portion 32 and the first engagement surface 4 come into contact, and a torque in the first rotational direction L1 is transmitted to the outer ring 10. As a result, the outer ring 10 rotates in the first rotational direction L1. On the other hand, when the inner ring 1 rotates in the second rotational direction L2, the tip of the first claw portion 32 rides onto the ride-up surface 5. Therefore, no torque in the second rotational direction L2 is transmitted from the inner ring 1 to the outer ring 10. Hereinafter, the case in which the first small diameter portion 62 is arranged radially inward of the first claw portion 32 will be referred to as the one-way mode.

[0035] As shown in Figure 1, the connecting portion 70 passes through the notch 16 and extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the outer ring 10. The connecting portion 70 is connected to a drive unit (not shown) of the vehicle drive system. When torque is transmitted from the drive unit to the connecting portion 70, the selectable plate 50 rotates, switching between one-way mode and free mode.

[0036] Figure 6 is an enlarged view of the lower surface of the first claw member in Figure 5. Next, the details of the first claw member 30 will be described. The first claw portion 32 has a tip surface 33 that contacts the first engagement surface 4 and a lower surface 34 that faces radially inward. The corner 35 where the tip surface 33 and the lower surface 34 intersect is rounded. The lower surface 34 extends in the longitudinal direction of the first claw portion 32. One end 34a of the lower surface 34 is the end of the lower surface 34 closer to the tip surface 33 and is connected to the corner 35. The other end 34b of the lower surface 34 is the end of the lower surface 34 closer to the first shaft portion 31 and is connected to the outer circumferential surface 31a of the first shaft portion 31.

[0037] The lower surface 34 is composed of two surfaces: a first surface 36 which is curved (arc-shaped when viewed from the axial direction) and a second surface 37 which is planar (straight-line-shaped when viewed from the axial direction). The angle θ1 formed by the first surface 36 and the second surface 37 is less than 180 degrees. For this reason, the lower surface 34 has a convex portion 38 that protrudes radially inward, with the point where the first surface 36 and the second surface 37 meet being the vertex 38a. The first surface 36 is positioned closer to the tip surface 33 than the vertex 38a. The second surface 37 is positioned closer to the first shaft portion 31 than the vertex 38a.

[0038] When a tangent line K is drawn from vertex 38a to the outer surface 31a of the first shaft portion 31, the second surface 37 is positioned radially outward from the tangent line K. Furthermore, the second surface 37 is inclined with respect to the tangent line K, and as it approaches the first shaft portion 31, the distance from the tangent line K increases (it moves away from the tangent line K). Therefore, a recess 39 is formed between the first shaft portion 31 and vertex 38a, recessed radially outward.

[0039] In one-way mode, and with the tip surface 33 of the first claw member 30 in contact with the first engagement surface 4, the apex 38a of the protrusion 38 is formed to be radially outward from one end 34a of the lower surface 34.

[0040] Furthermore, in one-way mode and with the tip surface 33 of the first claw member 30 engaged with the first engagement surface 4, the apex 38a of the protrusion 38 is formed to be positioned radially inward from the outer circumferential surface 63 of the first large diameter portion 61 (see extension line M of the outer circumferential surface 63). Therefore, when the first large diameter portion 61 moves in the second rotational direction L2, the apex 38a of the protrusion 38 comes into contact with (rides over) the first large diameter portion 61.

[0041] Furthermore, when the vertex 38a rides onto the outer circumferential surface 63 of the first large-diameter portion 61 (see Figure 8), the first surface 36 is formed to extend along the extension line M of the outer circumferential surface 63. Here, one end 34a of the lower surface 34 is part of the first surface 36. Therefore, when the vertex 38a rides onto the outer circumferential surface 63, one end 34a of the lower surface 34 is also located on the extension line M of the outer circumferential surface 63. In other words, one end 34a of the lower surface 34 is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4 (the maximum outer diameter of the inner ring 1) (see Figure 8).

[0042] Next, we will explain the operation of the first claw member 30 when switching from one-way mode to free mode.

[0043] Figure 7 shows the first claw member of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction during the transition from one-way mode to free mode. When switching from one-way mode to free mode, as shown in Figure 7, the corner 65 of the first large-diameter portion 61 first contacts the second surface 37 of the lower surface 34. Then, the contact point of the corner 65 gradually moves closer to one end 34a of the lower surface 34. Furthermore, as the contact point of the corner 65 moves closer to one end 34a, the first claw portion 32 is lifted slightly radially outward (see arrow A1 in Figure 7).

[0044] Figure 8 is a view of the first claw member in free mode in the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 1, viewed from the first direction. As shown in Figure 8, when the contact point of the corner 65 reaches the apex 38a of the convex portion 38, the tip surface 33 of the first claw portion 32 (one end 34a of the lower surface 34) is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4 (the maximum outer diameter of the inner ring 1). In other words, the tip surface 33 of the first claw portion 32 is not on the trajectory of the teeth 3 and does not engage with the first engagement surface 4. Therefore, when the apex 38a of the convex portion 38 rides up onto the first large diameter portion 61, the switching to free mode is completed.

[0045] Furthermore, in this embodiment, after the vertex 38a of the protrusion 38 rides onto the first large-diameter portion 61, the first large-diameter portion 61 moves further in the second rotational direction L2, and a part of the first surface 36 rides onto the first large-diameter portion 61. As a result, the state in which the first claw portion 32 is lifted radially outward is reliably maintained.

[0046] As described above, according to Embodiment 1, since the switch is made from one-way mode to free mode, the selectable plate 50 only needs to rotate to the extent that at least its vertex 38a rides on the first large-diameter portion 61. Therefore, the amount of rotation of the selectable plate 50 is smaller compared to the conventional amount of rotation (an amount of rotation such that one end 34a of the lower surface 34 rides on the first large-diameter portion 61). Thus, the response time when switching between one-way mode and free mode is shortened.

[0047] Although Embodiment 1 has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the example shown in Embodiment 1. For example, the first claw member of this disclosure does not have to be the first claw member 30 of Embodiment 1. Below, a modified example of the first claw member 30A and a modified example of the first claw member 30B, which are modified versions of the first claw member 30, will be described. Furthermore, the following description will focus on the differences from Embodiment 1.

[0048] (Variation 1, Variation 2) Figure 9 is a view of the first claw member of Modification 1 from a first direction. Figure 10 is a view of the first claw member of Modification 2 from a first direction. As shown in Figure 9, Modification 1 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the second surface 37A of the first claw member 30A is curved (arc-shaped when viewed from the axial direction). As shown in Figure 10, Modification 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that the second surface 37B of the first claw member 30B extends along the tangent K (see also Figure 6). Even with these first claw members 30A and 30B, as with Embodiment 1, when the vertex 38a of the convex portion 38 rides up onto the first large-diameter portion 61, the tip surface 33 of the first claw portion 32 is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4. Therefore, in Modification 1 and Modification 2 as well, the amount of rotation of the selectable plate 50 can be reduced.

[0049] On the other hand, the first claw member 30B of Modified Example 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that a recess 39 (see Figure 6) is not formed between the vertex 38a and the first shaft portion 31. As shown in Figure 6, in one-way mode, the corner 65 of the first large-diameter portion 61 is positioned away from the second surface 37 in the first rotational direction L1 to avoid unintended contact with the second surface 37. However, when using the first claw member 30B of Modified Example 2, the second surface 37B is positioned on the tangent line K shown in Figure 6, and there is a possibility that the corner 65 and the second surface 37B will come into contact. Therefore, when using the first claw member 30B of Modified Example 2, it is necessary to position the corner 65 of the first large-diameter portion 61 shifted in the first rotational direction L1 compared to the position in Embodiment 1. However, if the corner 65 of the first large-diameter portion 61 is positioned shifted in the first rotational direction L1, the amount of rotation of the selectable plate 50 when switching between one-way mode and free mode will increase. For these reasons, the first claw members 30 and 30A having the recess 39 are preferred over the modified example 2.

[0050] Although Modification 1 and Modification 2 have been described above, the first claw member is not limited to the examples described above. For example, the first surface 36 in Embodiment 1 is formed in a curved shape, but in this disclosure, the first surface may be planar (straight when viewed from the axial direction), and the shape of the first surface is not particularly limited. Also, regarding the position of the vertex 38a of the convex portion 38, in Embodiment 1 it is located closer to the other end 34b of the lower surface 34, but in this disclosure it may be located closer to one end 34a. In other words, if the vertex 38a is located closer to the other end 34b than to one end 34a, the response time can be shortened.

[0051] Furthermore, while the selectable one-way clutch 100 of Embodiment 1 has a first claw member 30 that transmits torque in the first rotational direction L1 of the inner ring 1, this disclosure may also include a second claw member 30C that transmits torque in the second rotational direction L2 of the inner ring 1, in addition to the first claw member 30. The selectable one-way clutch 100C of Embodiment 2, which has a second claw member 30C, will be described below.

[0052] (Embodiment 2) Figure 11 shows the first and second claw members in the bidirectional lock mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction. As shown in Figure 11, the shape of the teeth 3C of the inner ring 1C of the selectable one-way clutch 100C of Embodiment 2 differs from that of Embodiment 1. The teeth 3C of Embodiment 2 has a second engagement surface 4C in addition to the first engagement surface 4. The second engagement surface 4C extends radially and faces the second rotation direction L2. The radial outer end of the second engagement surface 4C has the same diameter as the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4 (see Figure 4). Also, the radial inner end of the second engagement surface 4C has the same diameter as the radial inner end 4b of the first engagement surface 4 (see Figure 4). In this embodiment, the radial outer end of the second engagement surface 4C has the same diameter as the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4. However, in this disclosure, the second engagement surface 4C may have a smaller diameter than the radial outer end 4a of the first engagement surface 4. In other words, in this disclosure, there are no particular restrictions on the shape of the second engagement surface 4C as viewed from the axial direction, and it may have a different shape from the first engagement surface 4.

[0053] Furthermore, Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that, in addition to the first accommodation space 20, a second accommodation space 120 is formed in the outer ring 10C. The second accommodation space 120 is formed symmetrically with respect to a virtual line W1 (see Figure 11) that extends radially from the rotation axis O1 and passes between it and the first accommodation space 20.

[0054] Furthermore, the selectable one-way clutch 100C of Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that it has a second claw member 130 in addition to the first claw member 30. The second claw member 130 is a component that transmits the torque of the inner ring 1C in the second rotation direction L2 to the outer ring 10C.

[0055] The second claw member 130 in this embodiment is the same part as the first claw member 30. That is, a protrusion 138 is formed on the lower surface 134 of the second claw portion 132 of the second claw member 130. The second claw member 130 is housed in the second housing space 120 so as to be symmetrical with respect to the first claw member 30 with respect to the imaginary line W1. Furthermore, the selectable one-way clutch 100C of Embodiment 2 differs from Embodiment 1 in that it has a second biasing mechanism 140 that biases the second claw member 130.

[0056] The switching section 60C of the selectable plate 50C in Embodiment 2 is similar to Embodiment 1 in that it has a first large-diameter section 61 and a first small-diameter section 62 that control the posture of the first claw member 30. On the other hand, the switching section 60C differs from Embodiment 1 in that it further has a second large-diameter section 161 and a second small-diameter section 162 that control the posture of the second claw member 130.

[0057] The second large-diameter portion 161 is positioned in the first rotational direction L1 relative to the second small-diameter portion 162. The outer diameter of the second large-diameter portion 161 is the same as the outer diameter of the first large-diameter portion 61 and is larger than the radial outer end of the second engagement surface 4C. The outer diameter of the second small-diameter portion 162 is the same as the outer diameter of the second small-diameter portion 162 and is smaller than the radial inner end of the second engagement surface 4C. The side surface of the second large-diameter portion 161 in the second rotational direction L2 is an inclined surface 165 that slopes so as it moves radially outward, it is positioned in the first rotational direction L1.

[0058] In Embodiment 2, the circumferential position of the selectable plate 50C differs from Embodiment 1 in that there are a total of three types: a position called the bidirectional lock mode shown in Figure 11, a position called the one-way mode shown in Figure 12, and a position called the free mode shown in Figure 13.

[0059] As shown in Figure 11, in the bidirectional lock mode, the first small diameter portion 62 is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30. Therefore, the first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30 engages with the first engagement surface 4 of the inner ring 1C. Also, the second small diameter portion 162 is positioned radially inward of the second claw portion 132 of the second claw member 130. Therefore, the second claw portion 132 of the second claw member 130 engages with the second engagement surface 4C of the inner ring 1C. From the above, in the bidirectional lock mode, torque is transmitted from the inner ring 1C to the outer ring 10C in both rotational directions (first rotational direction L1 and second rotational direction L2).

[0060] Figure 12 shows the first and second claw members in one-way mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction. When the selectable plate 50C rotates in the second rotation direction L2 from the bidirectional lock mode, it switches to the one-way mode shown in Figure 12.

[0061] In one-way mode, the first small-diameter portion 62 is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30. Therefore, the first claw portion 32 maintains a state of engagement with the first engagement surface 4 of the inner ring 1C. On the other hand, when switching from bidirectional lock mode to one-way mode, the inclined surface 165 of the second large-diameter portion 161 slides into the radially inward side of the tip of the second claw portion 132. This lifts the second claw portion 132 radially outward. Then, when the selectable plate 50C rotates further, the second large-diameter portion 161 is positioned radially inward of the second claw portion 132. As a result, the second claw portion 132 rides up onto the second large-diameter portion 161, and the second claw portion 132 does not engage with the second engagement surface 4C.

[0062] From the above, in one-way mode, torque in the first rotational direction L1 is transmitted from the inner ring 1C to the outer ring 10C. Also, even if the inner ring 1C rotates in the second rotational direction L2, no torque is transmitted to the outer ring 10C.

[0063] Figure 13 shows the first and second claw members in free mode of the selectable one-way clutch of Embodiment 2, viewed from the first direction. When the selectable plate 50C rotates in the second rotation direction L2 from the one-way mode state, it switches to the free mode shown in Figure 13.

[0064] When switching from one-way mode to free mode, the corner 65 of the first large-diameter portion 61 contacts the protrusion 38 of the first claw member 30, lifting the first claw portion 32 radially outward. The first claw portion 32 then rides up onto the first large-diameter portion 61. As a result, the first claw portion 32 of the first claw member 30 does not engage with the first engagement surface 4. Furthermore, the second large-diameter portion 161 continues to be positioned radially inward of the second claw portion 132 of the second claw member 130. Therefore, the second claw portion 132 does not engage with the second engagement surface 4C.

[0065] From the above, in free mode, even if the inner ring 1C rotates in the first rotational direction L1 and the second rotational direction L2, torque is not transmitted to the outer ring 10C, and the inner ring 1C spins freely.

[0066] According to Embodiment 2 described above, similar to Embodiment 1, the amount of rotation of the selectable plate 50C when switching between one-way mode and free mode is reduced, and the response time is shortened. Note that the switching from bidirectional lock mode to one-way mode is the same as the conventional method, with the inclined surface 165 scooping up from the tip side of the second claw portion 132. Therefore, the amount of rotation of the selectable plate 50C when switching between bidirectional lock mode and one-way mode is the same as in the conventional method, and the response time is not shortened.

[0067] Furthermore, according to Embodiment 2, the first claw member 30 and the second claw member 130 are the same part. In other words, the first claw member 30 can be used as the second claw member 130, making it highly versatile. Therefore, there is no need to prepare a second claw member different from the first claw member 30, making it easier to manufacture the selectable one-way clutch 100C. It should be noted that in this disclosure, a claw member without a protrusion 138 may be used as the second claw member, and there are no particular restrictions on the type of second claw member.

[0068] Furthermore, this disclosure may also be a combination of the following configurations. (1) The ring-shaped outer rim, An inner ring positioned on the inner circumference side of the outer ring, A plurality of first claw members are provided on the inner circumference side of the outer ring and transmit the torque of the inner ring in the first rotational direction to the outer ring, A selectable plate for controlling the orientation of the first claw member, Equipped with, The direction parallel to the rotation axis of the inner ring is defined as the axial direction. Multiple teeth are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring. The tooth portion extends radially and has a first engagement surface facing the first rotational direction, The first claw member is, The first shaft portion is rotatably supported on the outer ring, A first claw portion extends from the first shaft portion in a second rotational direction and engages with the teeth portion, It has, The selectable plate has a switching portion located radially inward of the first claw member, The aforementioned switching unit is A first small-diameter portion having an outer diameter smaller than the radial inner end of the first engagement surface, The first large diameter portion is arranged in the first rotational direction of the first small diameter portion and has an outer diameter larger than the radial outer end of the first engagement surface, It has, The first claw portion is, The tip surface that engages with the first engagement surface, The bottom surface facing radially inward, It has, One end of the lower surface is the end of the lower surface that is closer to the front end, The lower surface has a protrusion that extends radially inward. The apex of the convex portion is positioned closer to the first shaft portion than the one end of the lower surface. The first small-diameter portion is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion, and the tip surface and the first engagement surface are in contact, with the apex positioned radially outward from one end of the lower surface and radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the first large-diameter portion. When the vertex rides up onto the first large-diameter portion, one end of the lower surface is positioned radially outward from the radially outer end of the first engagement surface. Selectable one-way clutch. (2) The aforementioned lower surface is A first surface extending from the vertex toward the tip surface, A second surface extending from the aforementioned vertex toward the first axis portion, It has, As the second surface approaches the first shaft portion, the distance from the tangent line between the outer surface of the first shaft portion and the vertex increases. Between the first shaft portion and the vertex, a recess is formed that is radially outward from the tangent line. (1) Selectable one-way clutch as described above. (3) The second surface is formed in a straight line when viewed from the axial direction. (2) Selectable one-way clutch as described above. (4) The second surface is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the axial direction. (2) Selectable one-way clutch as described above. (5) The aforementioned lower surface is A first surface extending from the vertex toward the tip surface, A second surface extending from the aforementioned vertex toward the first axis portion, It has, The second surface extends along the tangent line between the outer surface of the first shaft and the vertex. (1) Selectable one-way clutch as described above. (6) The outer ring is provided with a plurality of second claw members that are located on the inner circumference side and transmit torque in the second rotational direction of the inner ring to the outer ring, The tooth portion extends radially and has a second engagement surface facing the second rotational direction, The aforementioned switching unit is A second small-diameter portion having an outer diameter smaller than the radial inner end of the second engagement surface, The second large diameter portion is arranged in the second rotational direction of the second small diameter portion and has an outer diameter larger than the radial outer end of the second engagement surface, It has, The side surface of the second large-diameter portion in the second rotational direction is a slope that is located in the first rotational direction as it extends radially outward. A selectable one-way clutch as described in any one of (1) through (5). (7) The second claw member is the same part as the first claw member. (6) Selectable one-way clutch as described above. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0069] 1, 1C inner ring 2 Female splines 3, 3C tooth part 4 First engagement surface 4C 2nd engagement surface 5. Ride-over surface 10, 10C outer ring 12 First end surface 13 Protrusion 20. First Containment Space 21 Shaft housing space 22 Claw housing space 23 Spring housing space 24 openings 30, 30A, 30B 1st claw member 31 First shaft section 32 1st claw part 33 Tip surface 34, 134 bottom surface 34a one end 34b Other end 36 Page 1 37, 37A, 37B 2nd side 38, 138 convex part 38a Vertex 39 Recess 40 First biasing mechanism 41 spring 50°C Selectable Plate 51 Plate body 60, 60C switching section 61 First large diameter section 62 1st small diameter section 65 corners 70 Connection part 80 Retaining ring 100, 100C Selectable One-Way Clutch 120 Second Containment Space 130 Second claw member 132 2nd claw part 140 Second biasing mechanism 161 Second large diameter section 162 2nd small diameter section 165 Slope

Claims

1. The ring-shaped outer rim, An inner ring positioned on the inner circumference side of the outer ring, A plurality of first claw members are provided on the inner circumference side of the outer ring and transmit the torque of the inner ring in the first rotational direction to the outer ring, A selectable plate for controlling the orientation of the first claw member, Equipped with, The direction parallel to the rotation axis of the inner ring is defined as the axial direction. Multiple teeth are formed on the outer circumferential surface of the inner ring. The tooth portion extends radially and has a first engagement surface facing the first rotational direction, The first claw member is, The first shaft portion is rotatably supported on the outer ring, A first claw portion extends from the first shaft portion in a second rotational direction and engages with the teeth portion, It has, The selectable plate has a switching portion located radially inward of the first claw member, The aforementioned switching unit is A first small-diameter portion having an outer diameter smaller than the radial inner end of the first engagement surface, The first large diameter portion is arranged in the first rotational direction of the first small diameter portion and has an outer diameter larger than the radial outer end of the first engagement surface, It has, The first claw portion is, The first engagement surface and the tip surface that engages with it, The bottom surface facing radially inward, It has, One end of the lower surface is the end of the lower surface that is closer to the front end, The lower surface has a protrusion that extends radially inward. The apex of the convex portion is positioned closer to the first shaft portion than the one end of the lower surface. The first small-diameter portion is positioned radially inward of the first claw portion, and the tip surface and the first engagement surface are in contact, with the apex positioned radially outward from one end of the lower surface and radially inward from the outer circumferential surface of the first large-diameter portion. When the vertex rides up onto the first large-diameter portion, one end of the lower surface is positioned radially outward from the radial outer end of the first engagement surface. The aforementioned lower surface is A first surface extending from the vertex toward the tip surface, A second surface extending from the aforementioned vertex toward the first axis portion, It has, When viewed from the axial direction, the first surface is recessed radially outward from the imaginary line connecting one end of the lower surface and the vertex. Selectable one-way clutch.

2. The distance from the tangent line between the outer surface of the first shaft and the vertex increases as the second surface approaches the first shaft side. Between the first shaft portion and the vertex, a recess is formed that is radially outward from the tangent line. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 1.

3. The second surface is formed in a straight line when viewed from the axial direction. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 2.

4. The second surface is formed in an arc shape when viewed from the axial direction. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 2.

5. The second surface extends along the tangent line between the outer surface of the first shaft and the vertex. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 1.

6. The outer ring is provided with a plurality of second claw members that are located on the inner circumference side and transmit torque in the second rotational direction of the inner ring to the outer ring, The tooth portion extends radially and has a second engagement surface facing the second rotational direction, The aforementioned switching unit is A second small-diameter portion having an outer diameter smaller than the radial inner end of the second engagement surface, The second large diameter portion is arranged in the second rotational direction of the second small diameter portion and has an outer diameter larger than the radial outer end of the second engagement surface, It has, The side surface of the second large-diameter portion in the second rotational direction is a slope that is located in the first rotational direction as it extends radially outward. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 1.

7. The second claw member is the same part as the first claw member. The selectable one-way clutch according to claim 6.

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