Clutch device

Abstract

To suppress the wear of an internal tooth of an end clutch plate.SOLUTION: An intermediate clutch plate 52 has a plurality of first internal teeth meshing with a plurality of first outer teeth. The intermediate clutch plate 52 is axially movably mounted to a first cylindrical portion 32. The first end clutch plate 53 is axially movably mounted to the first cylindrical portion 32. The first end clutch plate 53 is arranged at a first close end 323 of the first cylindrical portion 32, close to a second cylindrical portion 49. The second end clutch plate 54 is axially movably mounted to the second cylindrical portion 49. The second end clutch plate 54 is arranged at a second close end 493 of the second cylindrical portion 49, close to the first cylindrical portion 32. At least one of the first end clutch plate 53 and the second end clutch plate 54 is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate 52.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

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

Background Art

[0002] Generally, a clutch device is used to transmit or cut off the power from an engine to a transmission in motorcycles such as motorcycles and buggies. The clutch device has a clutch housing, a clutch center, and a pressure plate (see Patent Document 1). Clutch plates are attached to each of the clutch center and the pressure plate. Specifically, the clutch center and the pressure plate have a plurality of external teeth. The clutch plate has a plurality of internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of external teeth of the clutch center and the pressure plate.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] When the clutch is disengaged to cut off the torque transmission from the clutch housing to the clutch center, the pressure plate moves axially away from the clutch center. As a result, the end clutch plate disposed at the axial end of the clutch center or the pressure plate moves between the clutch center and the pressure plate. As a result, there is a problem that the area of contact between the internal teeth of the end clutch plate and the external teeth becomes small, and the surface pressure acting on the internal teeth becomes large, making it easy to wear.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to suppress wear of the internal teeth of the end clutch plate.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A clutch device according to the first embodiment comprises a clutch center, a pressure plate, an intermediate clutch plate, a first end clutch plate, and a second end clutch plate. The clutch center is rotatably positioned. The clutch center has a first cylindrical portion. The first cylindrical portion has a plurality of first external teeth formed thereon. The first external teeth extend in the axial direction. The pressure plate is rotatably and axially movable. The pressure plate has a second cylindrical portion. The second cylindrical portion is positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion has a plurality of second external teeth formed thereon. The second external teeth extend in the axial direction. The intermediate clutch plate has a plurality of first internal teeth that mesh with a plurality of first external teeth. The intermediate clutch plate is attached to the first cylindrical portion so as to be axially movable. The first end clutch plate has a plurality of second internal teeth that mesh with a plurality of first external teeth. The first end clutch plate is attached to the first cylindrical portion so as to be axially movable. The first end clutch plate is located at the first proximal end of the first cylindrical section, near the second cylindrical section. The second end clutch plate has a plurality of third internal teeth that mesh with a plurality of second external teeth. The second end clutch plate is mounted on the second cylindrical section so as to be axially movable. The second end clutch plate is located at the second proximal end of the second cylindrical section, near the first cylindrical section. At least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate.

[0007] In this configuration, at least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. Therefore, even if the contact area between the internal teeth and the external teeth becomes smaller when the clutch is disengaged, the contact area can still be maintained in at least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate, and as a result, wear of the internal teeth can be suppressed.

[0008] The clutch device according to the second embodiment is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the first embodiment: The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating surface between the first proximal end and the intermediate clutch plate. The regulating surface faces the second cylindrical portion in the axial direction. The first end clutch plate has a facing surface that faces the regulating surface. This configuration prevents the first end clutch plate from being mistakenly placed in the position of the intermediate clutch plate.

[0009] The clutch device according to the third embodiment is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the first or second embodiment: The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating groove formed at the tooth root. The plurality of second internal teeth have protruding internal teeth arranged within the regulating groove. The regulating groove extends axially at the first proximal end. This configuration prevents the first end clutch plate from being mistakenly placed in the position of the intermediate clutch plate.

[0010] The clutch device according to the fourth embodiment is configured as follows in the clutch device according to the third embodiment: The intermediate clutch plate is arranged in the axial direction with a gap between it and the regulating groove.

[0011] The clutch device according to the fifth embodiment is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any of the first to fourth embodiments: The first cylindrical portion has a first toothless portion where the first external teeth are not formed. The first end clutch plate has a second toothless portion where the second internal teeth are not formed at a position opposite to the first toothless portion. The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The second cylindrical portion has a first insertion portion which is inserted into the space formed by the first toothless portion and the second toothless portion. This configuration prevents the intermediate clutch plate from being mistakenly placed in the position of the first end clutch plate.

[0012] The clutch device according to the sixth embodiment is configured as follows in the clutch device according to any of the first to fifth embodiments: The second cylindrical portion has a third toothless portion where a second external tooth is not formed. The second end clutch plate has a fourth toothless portion where a third internal tooth is not formed at a position opposite to the third toothless portion. The second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a second insertion portion which is inserted into the space formed by the third toothless portion and the fourth toothless portion. [Effects of the Invention]

[0013] According to the present invention, wear of the internal teeth of the end clutch plate can be suppressed. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0014] [Figure 1] Plan view of the clutch mechanism. [Figure 2] Cross-sectional view along line II-II in Figure 1. [Figure 3] Plan view of the clutch center. [Figure 4] Perspective view of the clutch center. [Figure 5] Cross-sectional view of line VV in Figure 1. [Figure 6] Perspective view of the pressure plate. [Figure 7] Perspective view of the pressure plate. [Figure 8] Cross-sectional view of the clutch section. [Figure 9] Plan view of the intermediate driven plate attached to the clutch center. [Figure 10] Plan view of the first end driven plate attached to the clutch center. [Figure 11] A perspective view of the first end driven plate attached to the clutch center. [Figure 12] A perspective view showing the clutch center, pressure plate, and first end driven plate combined. [Figure 13] Perspective view of the second end driven plate attached to the pressure plate. [Figure 14] Cross-sectional view of the clutch device according to the modified example.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0015] Hereinafter, the clutch device 100 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the axial direction is the direction in which the rotation axis O of the clutch device 100 extends. The circumferential direction is the circumferential direction of a circle centered on the rotation axis O, and the radial direction is the radial direction of a circle centered on the rotation axis O. The first rotation direction is the direction in which the clutch device rotates, and the second rotation direction is the rotation direction opposite to the first rotation direction.

[0016] [Clutch Device] FIG. 1 is a plan view of the clutch device 100, and FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view taken along line II-II of FIG. 1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the clutch device 100 is configured to transmit the power from a drive source (for example, an engine) to a drive wheel or to cut off the transmission. The clutch device 100 is configured to transmit power in the first rotation direction R1 (counterclockwise in FIG. 1). The clutch device 100 is configured to be rotatable. Specifically, the clutch device 100 rotates in the first rotation direction R1 about the rotation axis O.

[0017] The clutch device 100 includes a clutch housing 2, a clutch center 3, a pressure plate 4, a clutch portion 5, and a support plate 6. The clutch device 100 also includes a plurality of bolts 8 and a plurality of coil springs 9.

[0018] [Clutch Housing] As shown in FIG. 2, the clutch housing 2 has a disk portion 21 and a cylindrical portion 22. The clutch housing 2 is connected to the input gear 10. This input gear 10 is an annular member to which the power generated by an engine (not shown) is input. The input gear 10 meshes with a drive gear (not shown) fixed to the crankshaft on the engine side.

[0019] The disc portion 21 is connected to the input gear 10 via a plurality of coil springs (not shown). The cylindrical portion 22 extends from the outer peripheral edge of the disc portion 21 toward the first axial direction. The cylindrical portion 22 has a plurality of notches 221 that extend in the axial direction. The plurality of notches are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction.

[0020] [Clutch Center] Figure 3 is a plan view of the clutch center 3 as seen from the first axial side, Figure 4 is a perspective view of the clutch center 3, and Figure 5 is a cross-sectional view taken along line VV in Figure 1. Note that in Figure 5, for the sake of ease of illustration, descriptions other than the clutch center 3, pressure plate 4, support plate 6, and bolt 8 have been omitted.

[0021] As shown in Figure 2, the clutch center 3 is positioned on the first axial side relative to the clutch housing 2. Furthermore, the clutch center 3 is positioned radially inward relative to the cylindrical portion 22 of the clutch housing 2. The clutch center 3 is rotatably positioned around the rotation axis O. The clutch center 3 is configured to rotate relative to the clutch housing 2. As shown in Figures 2 to 5, the clutch center 3 has a plurality of base portions 31, a first cylindrical portion 32, a first flange portion 33, a pressure-receiving surface 34, a plurality of column portions 35, a first boss portion 36, a plurality of first cam portions 37, and a plurality of second cam portions 38.

[0022] As shown in Figure 3, the multiple base portions 31 are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction. The base portions 31 are positioned radially between the first cylindrical portion 32 and the first boss portion 36. The base portions 31 connect the first cylindrical portion 32 and the first boss portion 36.

[0023] The clutch center 3 has a plurality of openings 311 that penetrate in the axial direction. The plurality of openings 311 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The base portion 31 and the openings 311 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. The openings 311 overlap with the second cam surface 381, which will be described later, in an axial view. Therefore, the second cam surface 381 is exposed to the second side in the axial direction through the openings 311.

[0024] As shown in Figures 3 and 4, the first cylindrical portion 32 extends in the axial direction. The first cylindrical portion 32 has a first proximal end 323 and a first distal end 324 in the axial direction. The first proximal end 323 is the end closest to the second cylindrical portion 49, which will be described later, and the first distal end 324 is the end opposite to the first proximal end 323. In this embodiment, the first proximal end 323 is the end on the first axial side, and the first distal end 324 is the end on the second axial side.

[0025] The first cylindrical portion 32 has a plurality of first external teeth 321 formed on its outer circumferential surface. Each first external tooth 321 extends in the axial direction. The first cylindrical portion 32 also has a plurality of first missing tooth portions 322. In this embodiment, there are three first missing tooth portions 322. The first missing tooth portions 322 are regions where the first external teeth 321 are not formed. Outside of the first missing tooth portions 322, each first external tooth 321 is formed at a predetermined pitch. Each first missing tooth portion 322 is spaced apart from one another in the circumferential direction.

[0026] The first cylindrical portion 32 has a regulating groove 325. The regulating groove 325 is formed at the tooth root. The regulating groove 325 is formed at the first proximal end 323 of the first cylindrical portion 32. The regulating groove 325 extends axially from the first proximal end face of the first cylindrical portion 32. That is, the regulating groove 325 opens to the first axial side. That is, the regulating groove 325 opens toward the second cylindrical portion 49 in the axial direction. The regulating groove 325 also penetrates radially. Note that the regulating groove 325 may open only radially outward, or it may not open radially inward.

[0027] The first cylindrical portion 32 has a restricting surface 326. The restricting surface 326 faces toward the second cylindrical portion 49 in the axial direction. In this embodiment, the restricting surface 326 faces toward the first axial direction. The restricting surface 326 is formed radially inward from the tooth root. The restricting surface 326 is one of the surfaces that define the restricting groove 325.

[0028] The first cylindrical portion 32 has a plurality of second insertion portions 327. In this embodiment, the first cylindrical portion 32 has three second insertion portions 327. The second insertion portions 327 protrude toward the second cylindrical portion 49. That is, the second insertion portions 327 protrude toward the first axial direction.

[0029] The first flange portion 33 extends radially outward from the first cylindrical portion 32. More specifically, the first flange portion 33 extends radially outward from the second axial end of the first cylindrical portion 32. The surface of the first flange portion 33 facing the first axial side becomes the pressure-receiving surface 34. That is, the pressure-receiving surface 34 faces the first axial side. The pressure-receiving surface 34 is an annular shape extending in the circumferential direction. The pressure-receiving surface 34 is located on the outer circumference of the clutch center 3.

[0030] The column portion 35 extends from the base portion 31 in the first axial direction. The column portion is cylindrical. The column portion 35 has a screw hole 351 that penetrates it in the axial direction. Multiple column portions 35 are arranged at intervals from each other in the circumferential direction. An interference portion 352 protrudes from the outer circumferential surface of the column portion 35. The interference portion 352 protrudes in the circumferential direction. The interference portion 352 extends in the axial direction.

[0031] With this configuration, even if an attempt is made to attach the coil spring 9 to the column portion 35, the interference portion 352 interferes with the coil spring 9, making attachment impossible. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the coil spring 9 from being mistakenly attached to the column portion 35.

[0032] As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first boss portion 36 is positioned radially inward relative to the base portion 31 and the column portion 35. The first boss portion 36 is also positioned radially inward relative to the first cylindrical portion 32. The first boss portion 36 extends in the axial direction. The base portion 31 extends radially outward from the outer circumferential surface of the first boss portion 36.

[0033] The first boss portion 36 has a splined hole 36a extending axially in its central part. The input shaft of the transmission (not shown) is spline-engaged in the splined hole 36a. In the axial direction, a thrust plate 14 is provided between the first boss portion 36 and the input gear 10. The clutch center 3 does not move in the axial direction.

[0034] As shown in Figure 5, the first cam portion 37 is positioned on the R1 side in the first rotational direction relative to the column portion 35. More specifically, the first cam portion 37 is positioned on the R1 side in the first rotational direction relative to the base portion 31. The first cam portion 37 is integrally formed with the base portion 31 as a single component.

[0035] The second cam portion 38 is positioned on the second rotational direction R2 side relative to the column portion 35. More specifically, the second cam portion 38 is positioned in the second rotational direction R2 relative to the base portion 31. The second cam portion 38 is integrally formed with the base portion 31 as a single component.

[0036] The first cam portion 37 and the second cam portion 38 are integrally formed with the column portion 35 as a single component. More specifically, the first cam portion 37 and the second cam portion 38 are integrally formed with the column portion 35 as a single component via the base portion 31.

[0037] As shown in Figure 3, the base portion 31, the first cam portion 37, the second cam portion 38, and the column portion 35 are arranged radially inward with a gap between them and the first cylindrical portion 32. Therefore, a valley portion 301 extending in the circumferential direction is formed between the base portion 31, the first cam portion 37, the second cam portion 38, and the column portion 35 and the first cylindrical portion 32.

[0038] As shown in Figure 5, the first cam portion 37 has a first cam surface 371. The first cam surface 371 faces the first axial direction and the first rotational direction R1. That is, the first cam surface 371 extends at an inclination with respect to the axial direction and the first rotational direction.

[0039] The second cam portion 38 has a second cam surface 381. The second cam surface 381 faces the second axial direction and the second rotational direction R2. That is, the second cam surface 381 extends at an inclination with respect to the axial direction and the second rotational direction. The second cam surface 381 faces opposite to the first cam surface 371.

[0040] [Pressure Plate] Figure 6 is a perspective view of the pressure plate seen from the second axial side, and Figure 7 is a perspective view of the pressure plate seen from the first axial side. As shown in Figures 2, 5, 6, and 7, the pressure plate 4 is arranged to be movable in the axial direction. That is, the pressure plate 4 is axially relative to the clutch center 3. The pressure plate 4 is arranged to be rotatable about the rotation axis O. The pressure plate 4 is positioned in the axial direction between the clutch center 3 and the support plate 6.

[0041] The pressure plate 4 has a second boss portion 41, a plurality of third cam portions 43, a plurality of fourth cam portions 44, a plurality of connecting portions 45, a plurality of holding portions 46, a second flange portion 47, a pressing surface 48, and a second cylindrical portion 49.

[0042] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the second boss portion 41 is cylindrical and extends in the axial direction. The second boss portion 41 is configured to accommodate a release mechanism (not shown). The third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44 are positioned radially outward from the second boss portion 41.

[0043] As shown in Figure 5, the third cam portion 43 is positioned on the first rotation direction R1 side relative to the first cam portion 37. The fourth cam portion 44 is positioned on the second rotation direction R2 side relative to the second cam portion 38.

[0044] As shown in Figure 6, the third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44 are spaced apart in the circumferential direction. The connecting portion 45 connects the third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44. The connecting portion 45 extends circumferentially between the column portion 35, the first cam portion 37 and the second cam portion 38 and the first cylindrical portion 32. That is, as shown in Figure 2, the connecting portion 45 extends circumferentially within the valley portion 301. The third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44 are positioned radially inward from the connecting portion 45.

[0045] As shown in Figure 5, the third cam portion 43 has a third cam surface 431. The third cam surface 431 faces the second rotational direction R2 and also faces the second axial direction. The third cam surface 431 faces the first cam surface 371. The third cam surface 431 extends substantially parallel to the first cam surface 371.

[0046] The fourth cam portion 44 has a fourth cam surface 441. The fourth cam surface 441 faces the first rotational direction R1 and also faces the first axial direction. The fourth cam surface 441 faces the second cam surface 381. The fourth cam surface 441 extends substantially parallel to the second cam surface 381.

[0047] As shown in Figures 6 and 7, the retaining portion 46 extends radially outward from the second boss portion. The multiple retaining portions 46 are spaced apart from each other in the circumferential direction. The retaining portion 46 has a retaining recess 461 configured to hold a coil spring. The retaining recess 461 extends axially. The retaining recess 461 opens to a first side in the axial direction.

[0048] A fourth cam portion 44 is positioned on the first rotation direction R1 side of the holding portion 46. The fourth cam portion 44 is integrally formed with the holding portion 46. A third cam portion 43 is positioned on the second rotation direction R2 side of the holding portion 46. Note that the third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44, which are adjacent to each other via the holding portion 46, are different pairs. The third cam portion 43 and the fourth cam portion 44 are formed from a single component with the holding portion 46.

[0049] The second flange portion 47 is positioned radially outward relative to the third cam portion 43, the fourth cam portion 44, the connecting portion 45, and the holding portion 46. The surface of the second flange portion 47 facing the second axial side becomes the pressing surface 48. That is, the pressing surface 48 faces the second axial side. The pressing surface 48 is an annular shape extending in the circumferential direction. The pressing surface 48 is located on the outer circumference of the pressure plate 4.

[0050] As shown in Figure 5, the pressing surface 48 is positioned on the first axial side relative to the pressure-receiving surface 34. In an axial view, the pressing surface 48 overlaps with the pressure-receiving surface 34.

[0051] As shown in Figure 6, the second cylindrical portion 49 extends from the inner circumferential end of the second flange portion 47 to the second axial side. The second cylindrical portion 49 is positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion 32 in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion 49 is positioned at a distance from the first cylindrical portion 32 in the axial direction. The second cylindrical portion 49 has a second proximal end 493 and a second distal end 494 in the axial direction. The second proximal end 493 is the end closest to the first cylindrical portion 32, and the second distal end 494 is the end opposite to the second proximal end 493. In this embodiment, the second proximal end 493 is the end on the second axial side, and the second distal end 494 is the end on the first axial side.

[0052] The second cylindrical portion 49 has a plurality of second external teeth 491 formed on its outer circumferential surface. Each second external tooth 491 extends in the axial direction. The dimensions of the second external teeth 491 are the same as those of the first external teeth 321, except for the axial dimension. The tip circle diameter of the second cylindrical portion 49 is the same as the tip circle diameter of the first cylindrical portion 32. Also, the root circle diameter of the second cylindrical portion 49 is the same as the root circle diameter of the first cylindrical portion 32.

[0053] Furthermore, the second cylindrical portion 49 has a plurality of third toothless portions 492. The third toothless portions 492 are areas where the second external teeth 491 are not formed. Outside of the third toothless portions 492, each second external tooth 491 is formed at a predetermined pitch. Each third toothless portion 492 is spaced apart from the others in the circumferential direction.

[0054] The second cylindrical portion 49 has a plurality of first insertion portions 495. In this embodiment, the second cylindrical portion 49 has three first insertion portions 495. The first insertion portions 495 protrude toward the first cylindrical portion 32. In this embodiment, the first insertion portions 495 protrude toward the second axial direction.

[0055] The second cylindrical portion 49 has a groove 496. The groove 496 is formed at the tooth root. The groove 496 extends in the axial direction. The groove 496 opens to the second axial side. That is, the groove 496 opens toward the first cylindrical portion 32.

[0056] [Clutch section] As shown in Figure 2, the clutch unit 5 is configured to transmit or interrupt power between the clutch housing 2 and the clutch center 3. The clutch unit 5 is located between the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4. More specifically, the clutch unit 5 is located between the pressure receiving surface 34 and the pressing surface 48.

[0057] Figure 8 is a cross-sectional view showing the details of the clutch section 5. Note that, for the sake of clarity, unnecessary components have been omitted from the description. As shown in Figure 8, the clutch section 5 includes a plurality of drive plates 51, a plurality of intermediate driven plates 52 (an example of an intermediate clutch plate), a first end driven plate 53 (an example of a first end clutch plate), and a second end driven plate 54 (an example of a second end clutch plate). In the following, the intermediate driven plate 52, the first end driven plate 53, and the second end driven plate 54 may be collectively referred to as driven plates 52-54.

[0058] The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52-54 are annular in shape. The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52-54 are positioned between the pressure-receiving surface 34 and the pressing surface 48. The drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52-54 are arranged alternately in the axial direction.

[0059] The drive plate 51 is axially movable relative to the clutch housing 2 but cannot rotate relative to it. That is, the drive plate 51 rotates integrally with the clutch housing 2. In detail, a plurality of engaging protrusions 511 projecting radially outward are formed on the outer circumference of the drive plate 51 (see Figure 2). These engaging protrusions 511 engage with notches 221 formed in the cylindrical portion 22 of the clutch housing 2. Friction material is attached to both sides of the drive plate 51.

[0060] Figure 9 is a plan view showing an intermediate driven plate 52 attached to the first cylindrical portion 32 of the clutch center 3. As shown in Figure 9, the intermediate driven plate 52 has a plurality of first internal teeth 521. Each first internal tooth 521 meshes with each first external tooth 321. As a result, the intermediate driven plate 52 is movable in the axial direction relative to the first cylindrical portion 32, but cannot rotate relative to it. That is, the intermediate driven plate 52 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3. Note that first internal teeth 521 are arranged within the first missing tooth portion 322. In other words, the intermediate driven plate 52 has first internal teeth 521 formed at a predetermined pitch and does not have a missing tooth portion.

[0061] Each of the first internal teeth 521 of the intermediate driven plate 52 has the same tooth height. Therefore, during the process of attaching the intermediate driven plate 52 to the first cylindrical portion 32, the first internal teeth 521 are not positioned within the regulating groove 325. Furthermore, the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a surface that contacts the regulating surface 326. Therefore, when attaching the intermediate driven plate 52 to the first cylindrical portion 32, it can move beyond the regulating groove 325 and the regulating surface 326 toward the second axial direction. For this reason, as shown in Figure 8, each intermediate driven plate 52 attached to the first cylindrical portion 32 is positioned toward the second axial direction relative to the regulating groove 325. The intermediate driven plate 52 is positioned with a gap between it and the regulating groove 325 in the axial direction.

[0062] The intermediate driven plate 52 is positioned axially on the second axial side with respect to the regulating surface 326. That is, the intermediate driven plate 52 is positioned in the region between the regulating surface 326 and the pressure-receiving surface 34 in the axial direction. The regulating surface 326 is formed between the first proximal end 323 and the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0063] The first end driven plate 53 is attached to the first cylindrical portion 32. The first end driven plate 53 is positioned at the first proximal end 323 of the first cylindrical portion 32. The multiple intermediate driven plates 52 are positioned on the second axial side relative to the first end driven plate 53. That is, the multiple intermediate driven plates 52 are positioned in the axial direction between the first end driven plate 53 and the pressure-receiving surface 34.

[0064] The first end driven plate 53 is thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52. Although not particularly limited, for example, the thickness of the first end driven plate 53 is about 0.2 to 2.0 mm thicker than the thickness of the intermediate driven plate 52, and preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm thicker.

[0065] Figure 10 is a plan view showing the first end driven plate 53 attached to the first cylindrical portion 32, and Figure 11 is a perspective view showing the first end driven plate 53 attached to the first cylindrical portion 32. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the first end driven plate 53 has a plurality of second internal teeth 531. Each second internal tooth 531 meshes with each first external tooth 321. As a result, the first end driven plate 53 is axially movable relative to the first cylindrical portion 32 but cannot rotate relative to it. That is, the first end driven plate 53 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3.

[0066] The multiple second internal teeth 531 each have multiple first protruding internal teeth 531a (an example of a protruding internal tooth). That is, some of the multiple second internal teeth 531 are first protruding internal teeth 531a. The first protruding internal teeth 531a protrude radially inward more than the other second internal teeth 531. That is, the tooth height of the first protruding internal teeth 531a is longer than the tooth height of the second internal teeth 531. The first protruding internal teeth 531a mesh with the first external teeth 321, similar to the second internal teeth 531.

[0067] The first protruding internal tooth 531a is positioned within the regulating groove 325. More specifically, the tip of the first protruding internal tooth 531a is positioned within the regulating groove 325. That is, in the radial direction, the first protruding internal tooth 531a extends beyond the tooth root to the regulating groove 325.

[0068] As shown in Figure 8, the first end driven plate 53 has an opposing surface 533. The opposing surface 533 is the surface facing the second axial side of the first protruding internal tooth 531a. The opposing surface 533 faces the regulating surface 326. The opposing surface 533 is positioned with an axial gap between it and the regulating surface 326.

[0069] With the above configuration, when attaching the first end driven plate 53 to the first cylindrical portion 32, even if the first end driven plate 53 is mistakenly positioned at the location of the intermediate driven plate 52, the opposing surface 533 of the first end driven plate 53 will come into contact with the regulating surface 326, preventing the first end driven plate 53 from moving any further axially towards the second side. As a result, it is possible to prevent the first end driven plate 53 from being mistakenly positioned at the location of the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0070] As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the first end driven plate 53 has a plurality of second tooth gaps 534. In this embodiment, there are three second tooth gaps 534. The second tooth gaps 534 are areas where the second internal teeth 531 are not formed. Outside of the second tooth gaps 534, each second internal tooth 531 is formed at a predetermined pitch. Each second tooth gap 534 is spaced apart from the others in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the second tooth gaps 534 are formed between a pair of first protruding internal teeth 531a.

[0071] The second toothless portion 534 faces the first toothless portion 322 in the radial direction. Therefore, a space is formed between the first toothless portion 322 and the second toothless portion 534. The first insertion portion 495 of the second cylindrical portion 49 is inserted into this space formed by the first toothless portion 322 and the second toothless portion 534 (see Figure 12).

[0072] In this configuration, if the intermediate driven plate 52 is mistakenly placed in the position of the first end driven plate 53, the first internal tooth 521 will be located within the first missing tooth portion 322 because the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a missing tooth portion. Therefore, even if an attempt is made to combine the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4, the first insertion portion 495 will collide with the first internal tooth 521, making it impossible to combine them. As a result, it becomes possible to realize that the intermediate driven plate 52 has been mistakenly placed in the position of the first end driven plate 53.

[0073] As shown in Figure 8, the second end driven plate 54 is attached to the second cylindrical portion 49. The second end driven plate 54 is positioned at the second proximal end 493 of the second cylindrical portion 49. A drive plate 51 is positioned between the second end driven plate 54 and the pressing surface 48. In this embodiment, an intermediate driven plate 52 is not positioned between the second end driven plate 54 and the pressing surface 48, but an intermediate driven plate 52 may be positioned in this position.

[0074] The second end driven plate 54 is thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52. Although not particularly limited, for example, the thickness of the second end driven plate 54 is about 0.2 to 2.0 mm thicker than the thickness of the intermediate driven plate 52, and preferably about 0.5 to 2.0 mm thicker.

[0075] Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the second end driven plate 54 attached to the second cylindrical portion 49. As shown in Figure 13, the second end driven plate 54 has a plurality of third internal teeth 541. Each third internal tooth 541 meshes with each second external tooth 491. As a result, the second end driven plate 54 is axially movable relative to the second cylindrical portion 49 but not rotatable relative to it. That is, the second end driven plate 54 rotates integrally with the pressure plate 4.

[0076] Each of the multiple third internal teeth 541 has multiple second protruding internal teeth 541a. That is, some of the multiple third internal teeth 541 are second protruding internal teeth 541a. The second protruding internal teeth 541a protrude radially inward more than the other third internal teeth 541. That is, the tooth height of the second protruding internal teeth 541a is longer than the tooth height of the third internal teeth 541. The second protruding internal teeth 541a mesh with the second external teeth 491, just like the third internal teeth 541.

[0077] The second protruding internal tooth 541a is positioned within the groove 496. More specifically, the tip of the second protruding internal tooth 541a is positioned within the groove 496. That is, the second protruding internal tooth 541a extends radially beyond the tooth root to the groove 496. In this embodiment, the second end driven plate 54 has the same shape as the first end driven plate 53. By making the first end driven plate 53 and the second end driven plate 54 common in this way, cost reduction can be achieved.

[0078] The second end driven plate 54 has a plurality of fourth tooth gaps 542. In this embodiment, there are three fourth tooth gaps 542. The fourth tooth gaps 542 are areas where the third internal teeth 541 are not formed. Outside of the fourth tooth gaps 542, each third internal tooth 541 is formed at a predetermined pitch. Each fourth tooth gap 542 is spaced apart from the others in the circumferential direction. In this embodiment, the fourth tooth gaps 542 are formed between a pair of second protruding internal teeth 541a.

[0079] The fourth tooth-missing portion 542 faces the third tooth-missing portion 492 in the radial direction. Therefore, a space is formed between the third tooth-missing portion 492 and the fourth tooth-missing portion 542. The second insertion portion 327 of the first cylindrical portion 32 is inserted into this space formed by the third tooth-missing portion 492 and the fourth tooth-missing portion 542.

[0080] In this configuration, if the intermediate driven plate 52 is mistakenly placed in the position of the second end driven plate 54, the first internal tooth 521 will be positioned within the third tooth-missing portion 492 because the intermediate driven plate 52 does not have a missing tooth portion. As a result, even if an attempt is made to combine the clutch center 3 and the pressure plate 4, the second insertion portion 327 will collide with the first internal tooth 521, making it impossible to combine them. As a result, it becomes clear that the intermediate driven plate 52 has been mistakenly placed in the position of the second end driven plate 54.

[0081] [Support plate] As shown in Figures 1 and 2, the support plate 6 is annular in shape and extends in the circumferential direction. The support plate 6 is positioned on the first axial side relative to the clutch center 3. The support plate 6 is attached to the tip of the column portion 35 (upper end in Figure 2). In detail, bolts 8 fasten the clutch center 3 and the support plate 6 together. As a result, the support plate 6 rotates integrally with the clutch center 3.

[0082] [Coil spring] The coil springs 9 are arranged in the circumferential direction at a distance from the column portions 35. More specifically, multiple coil springs 9 and multiple column portions 35 are arranged alternately in the circumferential direction. In the axial direction, the coil springs 9 are positioned in a compressed state between the pressure plate 4 and the support plate 6. The axial second end of the coil spring 9 is positioned within the retaining recess 461 of the pressure plate 4. The coil springs 9 are held by the retaining recess 461, thereby restricting their movement in the radial and circumferential directions.

[0083] The coil spring 9 biases the pressure plate 4 to the second axial direction. As a result, the pressing surface 48 is biased to move closer to the pressure receiving surface 34, the clutch unit 5 enters the clutch-on state, and power is transmitted. The release member moves the pressure plate 4 to the first axial direction against the biasing force of the coil spring 9, causing the pressing surface 48 to move away from the pressure receiving surface 34. As a result, the clutch unit 5 enters the clutch-off state, and the transmission of power between the clutch housing 2 and the clutch center 3 is interrupted.

[0084] [Operation of the cam mechanism] When the pressure plate 4 rotates relative to the clutch center 3 in the first rotational direction R1 during acceleration, the second cam surface 381 and the fourth cam surface 441 push against each other, causing the fourth cam portion 44 to move axially towards the second side. As a result, the pressing surface 48 moves closer to the pressure receiving surface 34, increasing the coupling force of the clutch portion 5.

[0085] On the other hand, when the clutch center 3 rotates relative to the pressure plate 4 in the first rotational direction R1, such as during deceleration, the first cam surface 371 and the third cam surface 431 push against each other, causing the third cam portion 43 to move axially towards the first side. As a result, the pressing surface 48 moves away from the pressure receiving surface 34, reducing the coupling force of the clutch portion 5.

[0086] [Operation when clutch is disengaged] When the clutch is disengaged to interrupt torque transmission in the clutch section 5, the pressure plate 4 moves axially away from the clutch center 3. This interrupts torque transmission between the drive plate 51 and the driven plates 52-54, resulting in the clutch being disengaged. In this clutch-disengaged state, the gap between the first cylindrical section 32 and the second cylindrical section 49 becomes larger, causing the first end driven plate 53 to move towards the second cylindrical section 49, which may result in a portion of the second internal teeth 531 not contacting the first external teeth 321. However, because the first end driven plate 53 is thicker than the normal intermediate driven plate 52, even if a portion of the second internal teeth 531 does not contact the first external teeth 321, sufficient contact area between the second internal teeth 531 and the first external teeth 321 is ensured, thereby suppressing wear of the second internal teeth 531 on the first end driven plate 53. Similarly, wear of the third internal teeth 541 on the second end driven plate 54 can also be suppressed.

[0087] [Differentiation] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited thereto, and various modifications are possible without departing from the spirit of the invention. Furthermore, the following modifications can basically be applied simultaneously.

[0088] (a) In the above embodiment, both the first end driven plate 53 and the second end driven plate 54 were configured to be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52, but the configuration of the clutch device 100 is not limited thereto. For example, only the first end driven plate 53 may be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52, or only the second end driven plate 54 may be thicker than the intermediate driven plate 52.

[0089] (b) In the above embodiment, the entire first end driven plate 53 is configured to be thicker than the entire intermediate driven plate 52, but the configuration of the first end driven plate 53 is not limited to this. For example, the first end driven plate 53 only needs to be thicker than the first internal teeth 521 of the intermediate driven plate 52, at least at the second internal teeth 531.

[0090] (c) In the above embodiment, a regulating groove 325 was formed on the tooth root, but the position of the regulating groove 325 is not limited to this. For example, the regulating groove 325 may be formed on the side surface of the first external tooth 321. In this case, the first protruding internal tooth 531a is other 2nd It protrudes more circumferentially than the internal tooth 531. That is, the tooth thickness of the first protruding internal tooth 531a is greater than that of the other teeth. 2nd This is greater than the tooth thickness of the internal tooth 531. As a result, a portion of the first protruding internal tooth 531a is positioned within the regulating groove 325. In other words, the opposing surface 533 of the first protruding internal tooth 531a faces the regulating surface 326, which is part of the surface defining the regulating groove 325.

[0091] (d) In the above embodiment, the pressure plate 4 was positioned on the first axial side with respect to the clutch center 3, but the position of the pressure plate 4 is not limited to this. That is, as shown in Figure 14, the pressure plate 4 may be positioned on the second axial side with respect to the clutch center 3. That is, the pressing surface 48 may be positioned on the second axial side with respect to the pressure receiving surface 34.

[0092] In this case, the pressing surface 48 faces the first axial direction, and the pressure receiving surface 34 faces the second axial direction. Also, the first end driven plate 53 is positioned on the first axial direction relative to the second end driven plate 54. The clutch is disengaged by moving the pressure plate 4 to the second axial direction. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0093] 3: Clutch Center 32: First cylindrical section 321 :1st external tooth 322: 1st missing tooth part 323: First proximal end 325: Regulating groove 326: Regulatory aspects 327: Second insertion section 4: Pressure plate 49: Second cylindrical section 491 :Second external tooth 492: 3rd tooth missing part 493: Second proximal end 495: First insertion section 52: Intermediate driven plate 521: First internal tooth 53: First end driven plate 531: Second internal tooth 531a: 1st protruding internal tooth 533: Opposing surface 54: Second end driven plate 541: Third internal tooth 542: 4th missing tooth part 100: Clutch device

Claims

1. A clutch center is rotatably arranged and has a first cylindrical portion on which a plurality of first external teeth extending in the axial direction are formed, A pressure plate having a second cylindrical portion having a plurality of second external teeth extending in the axial direction and positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction, and being rotatable and movable in the axial direction, An intermediate clutch plate having a plurality of first internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, and mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, A first end clutch plate having a plurality of second internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the first proximal end of the first cylindrical portion near the second cylindrical portion, A second end clutch plate having a plurality of third internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of second external teeth, mounted on the second cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the second proximal end of the second cylindrical portion near the first cylindrical portion, Equipped with, At least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a restricting surface between the first proximal end and the intermediate clutch plate. The aforementioned restricting surface faces the second cylindrical portion side in the axial direction. The first end clutch plate has an opposing surface that faces the restricting surface, Clutch device.

2. The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating groove formed at the tooth root, The plurality of second internal teeth have protruding internal teeth arranged within the regulating groove, The regulating groove extends axially at the first proximal end, The clutch device according to claim 1.

3. The intermediate clutch plate is positioned in the axial direction with a gap between it and the restricting groove. The clutch device according to claim 2.

4. The first cylindrical portion has a first toothless portion on which the first external teeth are not formed, The first end clutch plate has a second missing tooth portion where the second internal tooth is not formed at a position opposite to the first missing tooth portion, and is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The second cylindrical portion has a first insertion portion that is inserted into the space formed by the first toothed portion and the second toothed portion. The clutch device according to claim 1.

5. The second cylindrical portion has a third toothless portion where the second external teeth are not formed. The second end clutch plate has a fourth missing tooth portion where the third internal tooth is not formed at a position opposite to the third missing tooth portion, and is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a second insertion portion that is inserted into the space formed by the third toothed portion and the fourth toothed portion. The clutch device according to claim 1.

6. A clutch center having a first cylindrical portion on which a plurality of first external teeth extending in the axial direction are formed, and which is rotatably arranged, A pressure plate having a second cylindrical portion having a plurality of second external teeth extending in the axial direction and positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction, and being rotatable and movable in the axial direction, An intermediate clutch plate having a plurality of first internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, and mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, A first end clutch plate having a plurality of second internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the first proximal end of the first cylindrical portion near the second cylindrical portion, A second end clutch plate having a plurality of third internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of second external teeth, mounted on the second cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the second proximal end of the second cylindrical portion near the first cylindrical portion, Equipped with, At least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a regulating groove formed at the tooth root, The plurality of second internal teeth have protruding internal teeth arranged within the regulating groove, The regulating groove extends axially at the first proximal end, Clutch device.

7. A clutch center having a first cylindrical portion on which a plurality of first external teeth extending in the axial direction are formed, and which is rotatably arranged, A pressure plate having a second cylindrical portion having a plurality of second external teeth extending in the axial direction and positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction, and being rotatable and movable in the axial direction, An intermediate clutch plate having a plurality of first internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, and mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, A first end clutch plate having a plurality of second internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the first proximal end of the first cylindrical portion near the second cylindrical portion, A second end clutch plate having a plurality of third internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of second external teeth, mounted on the second cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the second proximal end of the second cylindrical portion near the first cylindrical portion, Equipped with, At least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a first toothless portion on which the first external teeth are not formed, The first end clutch plate has a second missing tooth portion where the second internal tooth is not formed at a position opposite to the first missing tooth portion, and is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The second cylindrical portion has a first insertion portion that is inserted into the space formed by the first toothed portion and the second toothed portion. Clutch device.

8. A clutch center having a first cylindrical portion on which a plurality of first external teeth extending in the axial direction are formed, and which is rotatably arranged, A pressure plate having a second cylindrical portion having a plurality of second external teeth extending in the axial direction and positioned adjacent to the first cylindrical portion in the axial direction, and being rotatable and movable in the axial direction, An intermediate clutch plate having a plurality of first internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, and mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, A first end clutch plate having a plurality of second internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of first external teeth, mounted on the first cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the first proximal end of the first cylindrical portion near the second cylindrical portion, A second end clutch plate having a plurality of third internal teeth that mesh with the plurality of second external teeth, mounted on the second cylindrical portion so as to be movable in the axial direction, and positioned at the second proximal end of the second cylindrical portion near the first cylindrical portion, Equipped with, At least one of the first end clutch plate and the second end clutch plate is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The second cylindrical portion has a third toothless portion where the second external teeth are not formed. The second end clutch plate has a fourth missing tooth portion where the third internal tooth is not formed at a position opposite to the third missing tooth portion, and is thicker than the intermediate clutch plate. The first cylindrical portion has a second insertion portion that is inserted into the space formed by the third toothed portion and the fourth toothed portion. Clutch device.

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