JP2018105415A - Clutch connection/disconnection device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that reduces a driver's discomfort. A clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 includes a first piston 200 inserted into a first pressure chamber 110 of a main cylinder 100, a second piston 300 that presses the first piston 200, and a through hole of the second piston 300. The third piston 400 is inserted into the 312 and the third pressure chamber 128 and has a locking portion 418 protruding from the outer wall, and the third piston 400 is inserted into the through hole 506 and inserted into the through hole 312 of the second piston 300. And a fourth protrusion 508 that opposes the locking portion 154 formed on the inner wall 116 of the main cylinder 100 and that surrounds the second pressure chamber 118 in cooperation with the inner wall 116 of the main cylinder 100 and the second piston 300. A piston 500; and a coil spring 600 disposed between the fourth piston 500 and the third piston 400. [Selection] Figure 1

Description

  The technology disclosed in the present specification is used in a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission, and relates to a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that controls disconnection and engagement of a clutch.

  As a vehicle equipped with a manual transmission, a function that earns fuel consumption by automatically disengaging the clutch using an actuator and running inertial with the engine stopped (sometimes called "free-run function") A vehicle provided with is known.

  In a vehicle that employs a configuration in which the clutch is automatically disengaged using the actuator in this way, a driver who cannot recognize the fact while the actuator is disengaging the clutch is required to disengage the clutch pedal. May be stepped on. In this case, since the reaction force against the clutch pedal is smaller than that during normal manual operation, the driver who steps on the clutch pedal may feel uncomfortable.

  In order to solve such problems, Patent Document 1 discloses an operation in which an intermediate cylinder is provided between the actuator and the clutch connecting / disconnecting device, and the actuator disconnects the clutch via the intermediate cylinder and the clutch connecting / disconnecting device. When the driver steps on the clutch pedal while performing the operation, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device uses a hydraulic pressure generated in the intermediate cylinder by the actuator to generate a reaction force against the clutch pedal. ing. The disclosure of Patent Document 1 is incorporated herein by reference.

  Further, in Patent Document 2, during normal manual operation, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device transmits the hydraulic pressure generated by the clutch pedal to the clutch, while the actuator operates to disconnect the clutch via the clutch connecting / disconnecting device. During this time, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device uses a separately provided piston for sliding the hydraulic pressure generated by the clutch pedal (not transmitted to the clutch) against the spring, thereby counteracting the clutch pedal. A method for generating force is disclosed. The disclosure of Patent Document 2 is incorporated herein by reference.

JP 2005-83562 A Chinese Patent Application No. 104948605 Specification

  However, in the method disclosed in the above document, the reaction force generated when the driver steps on the clutch pedal during normal manual operation and the driver operates the clutch pedal while the actuator is disengaging the clutch. A large difference is generated between the reaction force generated when the vehicle is stepped on, and the uncomfortable feeling given to the driver still remains.

  Specifically, in the invention described in Patent Document 1, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device communicates with the clutch pedal while the actuator operates to disconnect the clutch via the clutch connecting / disconnecting device. Since the piston surrounding the pressure chamber has already been pressed and slid to some extent using the hydraulic pressure received from the actuator, the pressure in the pressure chamber has decreased. In such a state, when the driver steps on the clutch pedal, the driver suddenly runs the clutch pedal whose reaction force is reduced due to the pressure in the pressure chamber being lowered, and then suddenly against the clutch pedal. Large reaction force (reaction force using hydraulic pressure generated by the intermediate cylinder) is felt as a wall feeling. Such a wall feeling is not felt when the clutch pedal is depressed during normal manual operation.

  On the other hand, in the invention described in Patent Document 2, if the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch via the clutch connecting / disconnecting device, the driver Only the reaction force due to the elastic force of the spring is felt. The reaction force resulting from the elastic force of the spring is different from the reaction force (clutch load) generated during normal manual operation.

  Therefore, according to various embodiments of the present invention, there is provided a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that reduces a sense of discomfort given to a driver who steps on the clutch pedal when operating the clutch pedal.

  A clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to an aspect of the present invention is a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that can be connected to a clutch, a clutch pedal, and an actuator, and controls disconnection and connection of the clutch, from one end to the other end. A first pressure chamber that communicates with the clutch at the one end, a second pressure chamber that communicates with the clutch pedal between the one end and the other end, and at the other end A main body having a third pressure chamber communicating with the actuator, and a cylindrical first inserted into the first pressure chamber, guided by the inner wall of the first pressure chamber, and slidable in the extending direction of the main body. It has a hollow shape with a member and a through-hole extending in the extending direction, and one end presses the first member and is guided by the inner wall of the main body to be slidable in the extending direction. Second member , One end is inserted into the through hole of the second member and is opposed to the first member, the other end is in a cylindrical shape inserted into the third pressure chamber, and the latch protrudes from the outer wall in the vicinity of the other end A third member that is slidable in the extending direction with the one end guided to the inner wall of the second member and the other end guided to the inner wall of the third pressure chamber, and the extending direction. A through hole is formed, and the third member is inserted through the through hole, and one end is inserted into the through hole of the second member and surrounded by the inner wall of the second member and the outer wall of the third member. The other end is a fourth member having a hollow and cylindrical shape opposite to the locking portion extending from the inner wall of the main body toward the central axis on the other end side of the main body from the other end, By extending along the outer periphery of the fourth member so as to contact the inner wall of the main body, A protrusion that forms the second pressure chamber surrounded by a wall, an outer wall of the fourth member, and the other end of the second member; and the inner wall of the second member and the outer wall of the third member And is arranged to extend in the extending direction between the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the third member. And an elastic member.

  According to various embodiments of the present invention, it is possible to provide a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that reduces a sense of discomfort given to a driver who steps on the clutch pedal when operating the clutch pedal.

It is sectional drawing which shows the clutch connection / disconnection apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment of this invention. FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the clutch connection / disconnection device shown in FIG. 1 when the clutch is disconnected by depressing a clutch pedal. It is a clutch connection / disconnection apparatus shown in FIG. 1, Comprising: It is sectional drawing which shows a clutch connection / disconnection apparatus when a clutch is disconnected by the action | operation of an actuator. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional view showing the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG. 2 is a diagram conceptually showing a force applied by a driver to a clutch pedal in association with an amount by which a driver steps on a clutch pedal in the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1.

  Hereinafter, various embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, the same referential mark is attached | subjected to the same component in drawing.

1. Diagram 1 of the clutch engaging and disengaging device is a sectional view showing a clutch engaging and disengaging device according to one embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 can be connected to the clutch 20, the clutch pedal 30, and the actuator 40, and controls the disconnection and connection (engagement) of the clutch 20. FIG. 1 shows the clutch connecting / disconnecting device in a state where the clutch 20 is completely connected (engaged).

The clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 mainly includes a hollow and cylindrical main body (main cylinder) 100, a cylindrical first member (first piston) 200 housed in the main body 100, and the interior of the main body 100. A hollow and cylindrical second member (second piston) 300 accommodated in the main body 100, a cylindrical third member (third piston) 400 accommodated in the main body 100, and the main body 100. And a hollow and cylindrical fourth member (fourth piston) 500 and a first elastic member (coil spring) 600 disposed between the third member 400 and the fourth member 500.
In the present embodiment, the main body 100, the first member 200, the second member 300, the third member 400, and the fourth member 500 are all formed in a cylindrical shape.

1-1. Main body (main cylinder) 100
The main body 100 can be formed of a metal such as iron, an aluminum alloy, or a titanium alloy so as to extend along the extending direction X from the one end 102 to the other end 104.

  The main body 100 is surrounded at one end 102 by a first inner wall 106 extending in the extending direction X, a second inner wall 108 extending in a direction orthogonal to the extending direction X, and one end (the end face thereof) of the first member 200. The first pressure chamber 110 is a substantially cylindrical region filled with hydraulic oil. The main body 100 has a first through hole 112 in, for example, the inner wall 106 among the inner walls surrounding the first pressure chamber 110. The main body 100 includes a first tube 114 that communicates with the through hole 112. The pipe 114 functions as an oil passage that connects the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 (the first pressure chamber 110 thereof) and the clutch 20.

  The main body 100 is surrounded by the third inner wall 116 extending in the extending direction X between the one end 102 and the other end 104, the other end 304 (the end face thereof) of the second member 300, and the outer wall of the fourth member 500. And includes a second pressure chamber 118 that is a substantially annular region filled with hydraulic oil. The main body 100 has a second through hole 120 in an inner wall 116 surrounding the second pressure chamber 118. The main body 100 has a second tube 122 communicating with the through hole 120. The pipe 122 functions as an oil passage that connects the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 (the first pressure chamber 118 thereof) and the clutch pedal 30.

  At the other end 104, the main body 100 has a fourth inner wall 124 extending in the extending direction X, a fifth inner wall 126 extending in a direction orthogonal to the extending direction X, and the other end 404 (the end face) of the third member 400. And a third pressure chamber 128 that is a substantially cylindrical region filled with hydraulic oil. The main body 100 has a third through hole 130 in an inner wall 124 surrounding the third pressure chamber 128. The main body 100 includes a third tube 132 that communicates with the through hole 130. The pipe 132 functions as an oil passage that connects the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 (the third pressure chamber 128 thereof) and the actuator 40.

1-2. First member (first piston) 200
In the present embodiment, the first member 200 can be formed of a metal such as iron, an aluminum alloy, or a titanium alloy so as to have, for example, a cylindrical shape as a whole. The first member 200 is formed in a solid shape in the present embodiment, but may be formed in a hollow shape in another embodiment. The first member 200 is inserted into the first pressure chamber 110 and is provided so as to be slidable in the extending direction X while being guided by the inner wall 106 of the first pressure chamber 110.

  The first member 200 optionally includes one or more oil rings (not shown) provided on the outer periphery of the first member 200 in order to prevent the hydraulic oil filled in the first pressure chamber 110 from leaking. )).

1-3. Second member (second piston) 300
The second member 300 can be formed of, for example, a metal such as iron, an aluminum alloy, or a titanium alloy so as to have a plurality of different outer diameters from the one end 302 toward the other end 304. More specifically, the second member 300 includes a first cylindrical portion 306 having a first outer diameter _{A 1} adjacent one end 302, adjacent the second outer diameter _A 2 (> first outside the first cylindrical portion 306 A second cylindrical portion 308 having a diameter A ₁ ) and a third cylindrical portion 310 adjacent to the second cylindrical portion 308 and having a third outer diameter A ₃ (> second outer diameter A ₂ ). Has been.

The first cylindrical portion 306 of the second member 300 is formed so that its outer diameter (first outer diameter A ₁ ) is the same (or substantially the same) as the outer diameter of the first member 200. Thus, in a state where the one end 302 of the second member 300 is in contact with the first member 200 (the state illustrated in FIG. 1), the sixth inner wall 134 of the main body 100, the outer wall of the first member 200, and the second A first space 136 is formed which is surrounded by the outer wall of the first cylindrical portion 306 of the member 300 and extends in a substantially annular shape adjacent to the first pressure chamber 110. The space 136 communicates with the outside of the main body 100 through, for example, one (or more) fourth through holes 138 formed in the main body 100.
When the second member 300 slides to reduce the volume of the space 136, the second member 300 releases such air by releasing the air present in the space 136 to the outside of the main body 100 through the through hole 138. Allow. Conversely, when the second member 300 slides to increase the volume of the space 136, such air is introduced into the space 136 through the through-hole 138 by introducing air that exists outside the main body 100. Allow sliding.

The second cylindrical portion 308 of the second member 300 is formed such that its outer diameter (second outer diameter A ₂ ) is slightly smaller than the inner diameter of the inner wall 134 of the main body 100. Thereby, the second member 300 is slidable in the extending direction X by the second cylindrical portion 308 being guided by the inner wall 134 of the main body 100.

The second cylindrical portion 308 of the second member 300 is formed such that its outer diameter (second outer diameter A ₂ ) is smaller than the seventh inner wall 140 of the main body 100. As a result, a second space 142 that is surrounded by the inner wall 140 of the main body 100 and the second cylindrical portion 308 of the second member 300 and extends in a substantially annular shape is formed. The space 142 communicates with the outside of the main body 100 via, for example, one (a plurality of) fifth through holes 144 formed in the main body 100.

  When the second member 300 slides to reduce the volume of the space 142, the second member 300 releases such air by releasing the air present in the space 142 to the outside of the main body 100 through the through hole 144. Allow. Conversely, when the second member 300 slides to increase the volume of the space 142, the second member 300 slides such air by guiding air from the outside of the main body 100 to the space 142 through the through hole 144. Is acceptable.

The third cylindrical portion 310 of the second member 300 is formed such that its outer diameter (third outer diameter A ₃ ) is slightly smaller than the inner wall 140 of the main body 100. As a result, the second member 300 is slidable in the extending direction X by the third cylindrical portion 310 being guided by the inner wall 140 of the main body 100.

A through hole 312 extending in the extending direction X from one end 302 to the other end 304 is formed in the second member 300. Specifically, the through-hole 312 includes a first region 312a having a first inner diameter _{B 1} adjacent one end 302 of the second member 300, a second inner diameter _B 2 adjacent to the first region 312a (> first inner diameter including a second region 312b having a B _1), and a third region 312c having a neighboring third inner diameter _B 3 (> second inner diameter _{B 2)} in the second region 312b, the.

  In the present embodiment, the second member 300 is provided separately from the first member 200 (one end 302 of the second member 300 abuts on the first member 200), but the second member 300 is provided. May be provided integrally with the first member 200 (one end 302 of the second member 300 is connected to the other end of the first member 200).

  The second member 300 may optionally include one or a plurality of second members 300 provided on the outer periphery of the third cylindrical portion 310 of the second member 300 in order to prevent the hydraulic oil filled in the second pressure chamber 118 from leaking. It is possible to have an oil ring (not shown).

1-4. Third member (third piston) 400
The third member 400 can be formed of, for example, a metal such as iron, an aluminum alloy, or a titanium alloy so as to have a plurality of different outer diameters from the one end 402 toward the other end 404. Specifically, the third member 400 includes a first cylindrical portion 406 having a first outer diameter _{C 1} adjacent one end 402, adjacent the second outer diameter _C 2 (> first outside the first cylindrical portion 406 And a second cylindrical portion 408 having a diameter C ₁ ).

  One end 402 (specifically, the first cylindrical portion 406) of the third member 400 is inserted into the first region 312 a of the through hole 312 of the second member 300 and faces the first member 200. The other end 404 (specifically, the second cylindrical portion 408) of the third member 400 is inserted into the third pressure chamber 128 of the main body 100. The second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400 is further inserted into the second region 312 b of the through hole 312 of the second member 300. Accordingly, the first cylindrical portion 406 of the third member 400 is guided to the inner wall surrounding the first region 312a of the through hole 312 formed in the second member 300, and the second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400 is The third member 400 is extended by being guided by the inner wall surrounding the second region 312 b of the through hole 312 formed in the second member 300 and guided by the inner wall 124 of the third pressure chamber 128 of the main body 100. It is slidable in the direction X.

  The length of the third member 400 in the extending direction X of the first cylindrical portion 406 is larger than the length in the extending direction X of the first region 312 a of the through hole 312 formed in the second member 300. Is formed. Accordingly, the first cylindrical portion 406 of the third member 400 is not completely inserted into the first region 312a of the second member 300, and a part thereof protrudes from the first region 312a to the second region. 312b. As a result, a third space 146 extending in a substantially annular shape is formed between the first cylindrical portion 406 of the third member 400 and the inner wall surrounding the second region 312 of the second member 300.

  Part of the second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400 (part on the other end 404 side) is a fourth space 148 adjacent to the third pressure chamber 128 of the main body 100 (from the inner diameter of the third pressure chamber 128). Is disposed in a space 148) having a large inner diameter. This space 148 is surrounded by the eighth inner wall 150 of the main body 100. The space 148 communicates with the outside of the main body 100 through, for example, one (or more) sixth through holes 152 formed in the inner wall 150 of the main body 100.

  Among the outer walls of the first cylindrical portion 406, the third member 400 is not inserted into the first region 312a of the second member 300 and is located in the second region 312b. The first opening 410 may be provided. Furthermore, the third member 400 is, for example, one (or more) of the third wall 400 on the outer wall of the second cylindrical portion 408 that is not covered by the fourth member 500 and located in the space 148 of the main body 100. Two openings 412 are provided. Further, the third member 400 has a vent hole 414 that penetrates the inside of the third member 400, and communicates the opening 410 and the opening 412. Accordingly, the space 146 can communicate with the outside of the main body 100 via the opening 410, the vent hole 414, the opening 412, the space 148, and the through hole 152 of the main body 100.

  Accordingly, when the third member 400 (or the second member 300) slides in a direction approaching the second member 300 (or the third member 400) in order to reduce the volume of the space 146, the space 146 Such sliding is allowed by discharging the existing air to the outside of the main body 100 through the opening 410, the vent hole 414, the opening 412, the space 148, and the through hole 152 of the main body 100. Conversely, when the third member 400 (or the second member 300) slides in a direction away from the second member 300 (or the third member 400) in order to increase the volume of the space 146, the Such sliding is allowed by introducing the air existing outside into the space 146 through the through hole 152, the space 148, the opening 412, the vent hole 414 and the opening 410 of the main body 100.

  The third member 400 has, for example, one (or more) third openings 416 in the outer wall located in the third region 312c of the second member 300 among the outer walls of the second cylindrical portion 408. . The opening 416 also communicates with the vent hole 414 similarly to the opening 410. Accordingly, the third region 312 c of the second member 300 can communicate with the outside of the main body 100 via the opening 416, the vent hole 414, the opening 412, the space 148, and the through hole 152 of the main body 100.

  Thereby, when the 4th member 500 (or 2nd member 300) slides in the direction away from the 2nd member 300 (or 4th member 500), it is between 4th member 500 and 2nd member 300. By introducing air existing outside the main body 100 through the through-hole 152, the space 148, the opening 412, the vent hole 414, and the opening 416 of the main body 100, such sliding is allowed. On the other hand, when the fourth member 500 (or the second member 300) slides in a direction approaching the second member 300 (or the fourth member 500), it is between the fourth member 500 and the second member 300. Such sliding is allowed by releasing the air existing in the space to the outside of the main body 100 through the opening 416, the vent hole 414, the opening 412, the space 148 and the through hole 152 of the main body 100.

  In the present embodiment, as an example, one vent hole 414 is shared as a vent hole that allows the opening 410 and the opening 412 to communicate with each other and a vent hole that allows the opening 416 and the opening 412 to communicate with each other. In the embodiment, a unique air hole may be used as the air hole that communicates the opening 410 and the opening 412 and the air hole that communicates the opening 416 and the opening 412.

  In this embodiment, as an example, the opening 410 and the opening 416 are communicated with the outside of the main body 100 via the vent hole 414 and the opening 412. However, in another embodiment, the opening 410 and the opening 416 are connected. A vent hole penetrating the inside of the third member 400 may be provided so as to communicate with the outside of the main body 100 through at least one of the through hole 138 and the through hole 144. In this case, in order to make the opening 410 and the opening 416 communicate with the space 134 and / or the space 142, a separate through hole may be formed in the first cylindrical portion 306 and / or the second cylindrical portion 308 of the second member 300. it can.

  In the vicinity of the other end 404 of the third member 400, specifically, in the outer wall of the portion of the second cylindrical portion 408 disposed in the space 148 of the main body 100, the locking portion 418 protruding from the outer wall. Have The locking portion 418 may be formed in an annular shape surrounding the outer wall of the second cylindrical portion 408, or may be formed in at least one location (may be a plurality of locations) on the outer periphery of the second cylindrical portion 408. May be.

  The third member 400 optionally includes one or more oil rings (not shown) provided on the outer periphery of the third member 400 in order to prevent the hydraulic oil filled in the third pressure chamber 128 from leaking. )).

1-5. Fourth member (fourth piston) 500
The fourth member 500 can be formed of, for example, a metal such as iron, an aluminum alloy, or a titanium alloy so that a through hole 506 extending in the extending direction X from the one end 502 to the other end 504 is formed. The fourth member 500 has the third member 400 inserted through the through hole 506. One end 502 of the fourth member 500 is inserted into the third region 312 c of the through hole 312 formed in the second member 300 to surround the third region 312 c of the second member 300 and the second cylinder of the third member 400. Surrounded by the outer wall of portion 408. The other end 504 of the fourth member 500 faces a locking portion 154 that extends from the inner wall 116 of the main body 100 toward the central axis of the main body 100. The other end 504 of the fourth member 500 can abut against the locking portion 154 of the main body 100 as the fourth member 500 slides in the extending direction, and can be separated from the locking portion 154.
Note that the locking portion 154 of the main body 100 is spaced a certain distance from the outer wall of the second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400 so that the other end 504 of the fourth member 500 communicates with the space 148 of the main body 100. It is formed to ensure.

  The fourth member 500 has a protruding portion 508 extending along the outer periphery of the fourth member 500 so as to contact the inner wall 116 of the main body 100 in the vicinity of the other end 504. The projecting portion 508 (the outer wall thereof) forms the second pressure chamber 118 in cooperation with the inner wall 116 of the main body 100, the other end 304 (the end surface of the second member), and the outer wall of the fourth member 500. . That is, the second pressure chamber 118 is an area surrounded by the protruding portion 508 (the outer wall thereof), the inner wall 116 of the main body 100, the other end 304 (the end surface thereof) of the second member, and the outer wall of the fourth member 500. You can say that.

  In the present embodiment, the projecting portion 508 performs both the function of surrounding the second pressure chamber 118 of the main body 100 and the function of contacting the locking portion 154 of the main body 100. In another embodiment, these two functions may be performed by different components. For example, the protruding portion 508 fulfills the function of contacting the locking portion 154 of the main body 100 (in this case, the protruding portion 508 only needs to be in contact with the locking portion 154 and may or may not be in contact with the inner wall 116 of the main body 100. (B) another projecting portion that is separately formed on the outer wall of the fourth member 500 and extends along the outer periphery of the fourth member 500 so as to contact the inner wall 116 of the main body 100, the second pressure chamber 118 of the main body 100. You may make it perform the function to enclose.

  The fourth member 500 is guided by the inner wall surrounding the third region 312 c of the second member 300 and the outer wall of the second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400, and can slide in the extending direction X.

  The fourth member 500 is optionally provided with one or more oil rings (not shown) provided on the outer periphery of the fourth member 500 in order to prevent the hydraulic oil filled in the second pressure chamber 118 from leaking. )).

1-6. First elastic member (coil spring) 600
The first elastic member 600 is disposed between the other end 504 (the end surface thereof) of the fourth member 500 and the locking portion 418 formed on the second cylindrical portion 408 of the third member 400, and the fourth member 500 and The third member 400 is biased in a direction away from each other. In the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 1, two leaf springs are used as the first elastic member 600 as an example. However, in another embodiment, a coil spring may be used. In any case, one end of the first elastic member 600 is fixed to the other end 504 (the end face) as long as it can contact the other end 504 (the end face) of the fourth member 500. Alternatively, the other end of the first elastic member 600 may be fixed to the locking portion 418 as long as it can contact the locking portion 418 of the third member 400. It does not have to be fixed.

  The first elastic member 600 has an elastic force smaller than the clutch load.

1-7. When the optional clutch pedal 30 is stepped on by the driver, the second member 300 and the first member 200 slide so as to approach the one end 102 of the main body 100 and then the clutch pedal 30 is released by the driver. If so, the first member 200 and the second member 300 can be returned to the positions shown in FIG. 1 by the clutch load. On the other hand, when the actuator 40 operates to disengage the clutch, the third member 400, the first member 200, the fourth member 500, and the second member 300 slide so as to approach the one end 102 of the main body 100, and then the actuator When 40 is operated so as to connect the clutch, the first member 200, the third member 400, the second member 300, and the fourth member 500 are returned to the positions shown in FIG. can do.

  However, as described above, as an option, when at least one of the first member 200, the second member 300, the third member 400, and the fourth member 500 has an oil ring, the member having such an oil ring is: Since the oil spring used increases the frictional force, it may not be possible to quickly return to the position shown in FIG. 1 depending only on the clutch load. Therefore, in this case, as an option, an elastic member such as a coil spring is arranged in the first pressure chamber 110, the space 136, and the space 146 so that the member can be quickly and reliably returned to the position shown in FIG. can do.

  The second elastic member (coil spring) 700 disposed in the first pressure chamber 110 has the first member 200 (and thus the second member 300, the third member 400, and the fourth member 500) directed toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. Function to press. The third elastic member (coil spring) 800 disposed in the space 136 functions to press the second member 300 (and at least the fourth member 500) toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. The fourth elastic member 900 (coil spring) disposed in the space 146 functions to press the third member 400 (and thus the fourth member 500) toward the other end 104 of the main body 100.

2. Operation of clutch connecting / disconnecting device The operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 having the above-described configuration will be described.

2-1. Disengagement of the clutch 20 when the clutch pedal 30 is depressed First, the operation when the driver depresses the clutch pedal 30 will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a sectional view showing the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1 when the clutch is disconnected by depressing the clutch pedal.

  When the driver steps on the clutch pedal 30, the clutch pedal 30 presses a piston (not shown) engaged with a cylinder (not shown). As a result, hydraulic oil flows from the cylinder into the second pressure chamber 118 via the pipe 122 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10.

  The fourth member 500 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the second pressure chamber 118 moves in the direction toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 because the other end 504 is in contact with the locking portion 154 of the main body 100. Can not. Therefore, the second member 300 pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. The first member 200 pressed by the second member 300 slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. Further, the hydraulic oil pressed by the first member 200 in the first pressure chamber 110 flows into the clutch 20 from the first pressure chamber 110 through the pipe 114.

  In the clutch 20, the hydraulic oil that has flowed through the pipe 114 flows into a cylinder (not shown). The hydraulic fluid that has flowed into the cylinder presses a piston (not shown) that engages with the cylinder, so that the piston is placed inside a clutch cover (not shown) (through some parts not shown). The formed diaphragm spring or the like (not shown) is elastically deformed. As a result, the pressing of the clutch disk (not shown) toward the flywheel (not shown) is released. Therefore, the clutch disk biased by the spring moves in a direction away from the flywheel, and thus the clutch 20 is disconnected.

  In this state, the driver resists the clutch load (that is, the elastic force of the diaphragm spring or the like to return to the original shape, in other words, the pressure of the first pressure chamber 110 of the main body 100) against the clutch load. Since the pedal 30 is continuously depressed, the hydraulic oil does not flow from the clutch 20 into the first pressure chamber 110 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10, and therefore the first member 200 is also directed toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. Cannot slide.

  Thereafter, when the driver releases the clutch pedal 30, in the clutch 20, the diaphragm spring or the like returns to the original shape by the elastic force, so that the piston returns to the original position in the cylinder. As a result, hydraulic oil flows from the cylinder into the first pressure chamber 110 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 via the pipe 114.

  The first member 200 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the first pressure chamber 110 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, the second elastic member 700 is optionally placed in the first pressure chamber 110). When arranged, the second elastic member 700 cooperates with the hydraulic oil to press the first member 200 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100).

  The second member 300 pressed by the first member 200 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, when the third elastic member 800 is disposed in the space 136 as an option, The third elastic member 800 presses the second member 300 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 in cooperation with the first member 200).

  The hydraulic oil pressed by the second member 300 flows into the clutch pedal 30 from the second pressure chamber 118 through the pipe 122. In the clutch pedal 30, when hydraulic oil flows into a cylinder (not shown), a piston (not shown) engaged with the cylinder returns to the original position, and the clutch pedal 30 returns to the original position. Be made.

2-2. Disengagement of the clutch 20 when the actuator 40 is actuated Next, the operation when the actuator 40 is actuated to disengage the clutch 20 will be further described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view showing the clutch connection / disconnection device shown in FIG. 1 when the clutch is disconnected by operating the actuator.

  For example, the actuator 40 presses a piston (not shown) engaged with a cylinder (not shown) in accordance with the execution of the free-run function. As a result, hydraulic oil flows from the cylinder into the third pressure chamber 128 via the pipe 132 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10.

The third member 400 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the third pressure chamber 128 slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. The first member 200 pressed by the third member 400 slides toward one end of the main body 100.
In parallel with this, the fourth member 500 pressed by the third member 400 through the first elastic member 600 slides toward one end of the main body 100 and is pressed by the fourth member 500. 300 also slides toward one end of the main body 100 to press the first member 200. At this time, the volume of the second pressure chamber 118 does not substantially change (that is, the second member 300 and the fourth member 500 do not change the volume of the second pressure chamber 118). Are not pushed by the clutch pedal 30. Therefore, even if the actuator 40 operates to disengage the clutch 30, the driver is not substantially discomforted. The first elastic member 600 has an elastic force that is smaller than the force required to press the first member 200 and greater than the force required to press the fourth member 500 and the second member 300. Therefore, here, the first elastic member 600 does not substantially elastically deform (even if elastically deformed, it immediately returns to its original shape).

  Further, the hydraulic oil pressed by the first member 200 in the first pressure chamber 110 flows into the clutch 20 from the first pressure chamber 110 through the pipe 114.

  Thereafter, the clutch 20 is disengaged by performing the same operation as described in “2-1” in the clutch 20.

  In this state, the actuator 40 resists the clutch load (that is, the elastic force of the diaphragm spring or the like to return to the original shape, in other words, the pressure of the first pressure chamber 110 of the main body 100) against the cylinder load. Since the piston (not shown) engaged with (not shown) continues to be pressed, the hydraulic oil does not flow from the clutch 20 into the first pressure chamber 110 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10, and therefore the first The member 200 also cannot slide in the direction toward the other end 104 of the main body 100.

  Thereafter, when the actuator 40 releases the pressure against the piston (not shown) engaged with the cylinder (not shown) in order to release the free-run function, for example, the diaphragm spring or the like in the clutch 20 has an elastic force. By returning to the original shape, the piston returns to the original position in the cylinder. As a result, hydraulic oil flows from the cylinder into the first pressure chamber 110 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 via the pipe 114.

  The first member 200 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the first pressure chamber 110 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, the second elastic member 700 is optionally placed in the first pressure chamber 110). When arranged, the second elastic member 700 cooperates with the hydraulic oil to press the first member 200 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100).

  The third member 400 pressed by the first member 200 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. In parallel with this, the second member 300 pressed by the first member 200 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, the third elastic member 800 is disposed in the space 136 as an option). In this case, the third elastic member 800 cooperates with the first member 200 to press the second member 300 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100). The fourth member 500 pressed by the second member 300 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. The third member 400 pressed by the fourth member 500 via the first elastic member 600 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100.

  The hydraulic oil pressed by the third member 400 flows into the actuator 40 from the third pressure chamber 128 through the pipe 132. In the actuator 40, when hydraulic oil flows into a cylinder (not shown), a piston (not shown) engaged with the cylinder returns to its original position.

2-3. Disconnection of the clutch 20 when the driver steps on the clutch pedal 30 while the actuator 40 is operating to disconnect the clutch 20 Next, the driver while the actuator 40 is operating to disconnect the clutch 20 The operation when the user steps on the clutch pedal 30 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A to 4E. 4A to 4E are the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. 1, and the operation of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device when the driver steps on the clutch pedal 30 while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch. FIG.

  First, FIG. 4A shows the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 in a state where the clutch 20 is completely connected (engaged) as in FIG. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 in this state is as described above with reference to FIG.

  Next, FIG. 4B shows the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 in a state where the actuator 40 starts to operate to disconnect the clutch 20 in accordance with, for example, execution of the free-run function. As described above, the actuator 40 presses a piston (not shown) engaged with a cylinder (not shown). As a result, hydraulic oil flows from the cylinder into the third pressure chamber 128 via the pipe 132 of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10.

The third member 400 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the third pressure chamber 128 slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. The first member 200 pressed by the third member 400 slides toward one end of the main body 100.
In parallel with this, the fourth member 500 pressed by the third member 400 through the first elastic member 600 slides toward one end of the main body 100 and is pressed by the fourth member 500. 300 also slides toward one end of the main body 100 to press the first member 200. Thereby, a gap is generated between the other end 504 of the fourth member 500 and the locking portion 154 of the main body 100. At this time, the volume of the second pressure chamber 118 does not substantially change (that is, the second member 300 and the fourth member 500 do not change the volume of the second pressure chamber 118), so that the driver's foot is substantially unchanged. Specifically, it is not pushed by the clutch pedal 30. Therefore, even if the actuator 40 operates to disconnect the clutch 30, the driver does not feel uncomfortable. The first elastic member 600 has an elastic force that is smaller than the force required to press the first member 200 and greater than the force required to press the fourth member 500 and the second member 300. Therefore, here, the first elastic member 600 does not substantially elastically deform (even if elastically deformed, it immediately returns to its original shape).

  Further, the hydraulic oil pressed by the first member 200 in the first pressure chamber 110 flows into the clutch 20 from the first pressure chamber 110 through the pipe 114.

  In the clutch 20, the hydraulic oil that has flowed in via the pipe 114 flows into the cylinder as described above. The hydraulic oil that has flowed into the cylinder presses the piston that engages with the cylinder, so that the piston (through some parts not shown) moves the diaphragm spring or the like disposed inside the clutch cover to some extent (completely). But not elastically deformed. This releases the pressure to the clutch disc (in the direction toward the flywheel) to some extent (not completely). Thus, the clutch disc biased by the spring moves away from the flywheel to some extent (not completely). In this state, the clutch 20 has not been completely disconnected yet.

  Next, FIG. 4C shows the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 in a state where the driver has started to step on the clutch pedal 30 (without recognizing that the actuator 40 is operating to disconnect the clutch 20). Yes. When the driver steps on the clutch pedal 30, hydraulic oil flows from the clutch pedal 30 into the second pressure chamber 118 of the main body 100 through the pipe 122. As a result, the volume of the second pressure chamber 118 increases. Here, as described above, the first elastic member 600 is smaller than the force necessary to press the first member 200 and larger than the force necessary to press the fourth member 500 and the second member 300. It is comprised so that it may have an elastic force. Therefore, before the second member 300 pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100, the fourth member 500 pressed by the hydraulic oil first resists the elastic force of the first elastic member 600. Then, it slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (while elastically deforming the first elastic member 600). The first elastic member 600 increases the elastic force as it elastically deforms (the elastic force of the first elastic member 600 gradually increases), so the driver does not feel a certain reaction force via the clutch pedal 30. Thus, by feeling the “gradually increasing” elastic force as a reaction force, almost no sense of incongruity is given.

  Next, FIG. 4D shows the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 in a state where the driver continues to step on the clutch pedal 30 from the state shown in FIG. 4C. Since the hydraulic oil continues to flow into the second pressure chamber 118 from the state shown in FIG. 4C, the fourth member 500 further resists the elastic force of the first elastic member 600 (the first elastic member 600 is elastically deformed). On the other hand, after sliding toward the other end 104 of the main body 100, the other end 504 of the fourth member 500 abuts against the locking portion 154 of the main body 100 as shown in FIG. 4D.

  Even in the state shown in FIG. 4D, the hydraulic oil flows into the second pressure chamber 118 when the driver continues to step on the clutch pedal 30. Since the other end 504 of the fourth member 500 is in contact with the locking portion 154 of the main body 100, the fourth member 500 can no longer slide toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. Therefore, the pressure in the second pressure chamber 118 increases. When the pressure exceeds the clutch load, the second member 300 pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. The first member 200 pressed by the second member 300 slides toward the one end 102 of the main body 100 as shown in FIG. 4E. Further, the hydraulic oil pressed by the first member 200 in the first pressure chamber 110 flows into the clutch 20 from the first pressure chamber 110 through the pipe 114. Thereafter, the clutch 20 is disengaged as described above with reference to FIG. During the transition from the state shown in FIG. 4D to the state shown in FIG. 4E, the driver can feel the clutch load through the clutch pedal 30 as a reaction force, and thus the driver feels almost uncomfortable. .

  Thereafter, when the driver releases the clutch pedal 30, in the clutch 20, as described above with reference to FIG. 1, hydraulic oil flows from the clutch 20 into the first pressure chamber 110 via the pipe 114.

  The first member 200 pressed by the hydraulic oil flowing into the first pressure chamber 110 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, the second elastic member 700 is optionally placed in the first pressure chamber 110). When arranged, the second elastic member 700 cooperates with the hydraulic oil to press the first member 200 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100). The first member 200 sliding in this way presses the second member 300 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 (at this time, when the third elastic member 800 is disposed in the space 136 as an option, as an option). The third elastic member 800 presses the second member 300 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100 in cooperation with the first member 200). The hydraulic oil pressed by the second member 300 increases the pressure in the second pressure chamber 118. As a result, the second pressure chamber 118 flows into the clutch pedal 30 via the pipe 122. At this time, the driver feels uncomfortable by feeling through the clutch pedal 30 with the clutch load as a reaction force. In the clutch pedal 30, as described above with reference to FIG. 1, the clutch pedal 30 is returned to the original position.

  As an option, when the fourth elastic member 900 is disposed in the space 146, the fourth elastic member 900 pressed by the second member 300 moves the third member 400 toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. And press.

  After the first member 200 presses the second member 300, the first member 200 contacts the third member 400 in parallel with this. The third member 400 pressed by the first member 200 slides toward the other end 104 of the main body 100. As a result, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device 10 returns to the state shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 4A.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram conceptually showing the force applied by the driver to the clutch pedal in association with the amount of depression of the clutch pedal by the driver in the clutch connecting / disconnecting device shown in FIG. In FIG. 5, the horizontal axis indicates the amount (stroke) by which the driver depresses the clutch pedal 30, and the vertical axis indicates the force applied by the driver to the clutch pedal in association with the stroke indicated by the horizontal axis. (That is, the reaction force applied from the clutch pedal 30 by the driver) is shown.

  First, a curve 50 drawn by a solid line in FIG. 5 indicates that the driver depresses the accelerator pedal 30 (in a state where the actuator 40 is not operated to disengage the clutch 20, that is, in the state shown in FIG. 1 or FIG. 4A). The situation when stepped on is conceptually shown. In this case, as the stroke increases, the force (or reaction force) increases in the section around the point 50a from the origin. Thereafter, when the stroke increases, the force (or reaction force) decreases in the section from the point 50a to the point 50b. Thereafter, when the stroke increases, the force (or reaction force) increases again.

  The reason why the force (or reaction force) decreases in the section from point 50a to point 50b is that the clutch 20 is set to shift to a so-called “half-clutch” state in this section. This is to make it possible to recognize that the clutch 20 is in the “half-clutch” state from the phenomenon in which the force (or reaction force) has been reduced.

  Next, a line 52 drawn with a thick line in FIG. 5 indicates that the driver has stepped on the accelerator pedal 30 in a state where the actuator 40 is operating to disengage the clutch 20 (that is, the state shown in FIG. 4B). The situation in the case is shown conceptually. In this case, as the stroke increases, the force (or reaction force) increases substantially in proportion to the stroke in the section from the origin to the point 52a. As described above, the force (or reaction force) increases in proportion to the stroke in the section from the origin to the point 52a because the force applied to the clutch pedal 30 by the driver substantially causes the first elastic member 600 to be elastic. This is because it corresponds to the force to deform. As a result, the driver can feel the gradually increasing reaction force from the clutch pedal 30 in the section from the origin to the point 52a. Next, as shown in FIG. 4D, when the fourth member 500 comes into contact with the locking portion 154 of the main body 100, the line 52 reaches the point 52a.

  Thereafter, the force applied by the driver to the clutch pedal 30 substantially increases the pressure in the second pressure chamber 118 and presses the second member 300 and thus the first member 200 toward the one end 102 of the main body 100. This corresponds to the force (ie clutch load) to Therefore, when the stroke reaches S1, the force instantly increases from F1 to F2. That is, the line 52 moves from the point 52a to the point 50a described above. After moving to point 50a, line 52 behaves similarly to curve 50 described above. Thus, the clutch load is smoothly applied to the clutch pedal 30 after the elastic force gradually increasing by the first elastic member 600 is applied as the reaction force. That is, the clutch load is smoothly delivered to the clutch pedal 30 from the gradually increasing elastic force of the first elastic member 600.

  In the example shown in FIG. 5, the timing at which the line 52 transitions to the curve 50 is the time when the stroke reaches S <b> 1, but this timing is the time when the driver starts stepping on the clutch pedal 30. It can be said that this depends on how much the third member 400 is pressed toward the one end 102 of the main body 100.

  For example, when the actuator 40 slides the third member 400 more toward the one end 102 of the main body 100 than in the example illustrated in FIG. 5, the fourth member 500 is connected to the locking portion 154 of the main body 100. In order to obtain the state of contact with the vehicle (the state shown in FIG. 4D), the driver must step on the clutch pedal 30 more than in the example shown in FIG. 5 (the stroke must be increased). Must not). Therefore, in this case, the line 52 shifts to the curve 50 at a certain point in time when the stroke exceeds S1.

  Conversely, for example, when the actuator 40 slides the third member 400 smaller toward the one end 102 of the main body 100 than in the example shown in FIG. 5, the fourth member 500 is engaged with the main body 100. In order to achieve the state of contact with the stop portion 154 (the state shown in FIG. 4D), the driver only needs to depress the clutch pedal 30 less than in the example shown in FIG. 5 (reducing the stroke). Is possible). Therefore, in this case, the line 52 shifts to the curve 50 at a certain time when the stroke is less than S1.

In any case, the clutch load is smoothly transferred to the clutch pedal 30 from the gradually increasing elastic force of the first elastic member 600.
Note that the first elastic member 600 having an appropriate elastic force is used (the first elastic member 600 having a larger elastic force is used to increase the inclination of the line 52 while having a smaller elastic force. By using the first elastic member 600, the inclination of the line 52 can be made close to the curve 50 (for example, a curved portion in the section from the origin to the point 50a) by reducing the inclination of the line 52).

  On the other hand, in the invention described in Patent Document 1 described above, the clutch connecting / disconnecting device already slides the piston surrounding the pressure chamber communicating with the clutch pedal to some extent using the hydraulic pressure received from the actuator. Therefore, the pressure in the pressure chamber is reduced. When the driver steps on the clutch pedal in this state, the clutch pedal has almost no reaction force, and therefore the stroke suddenly shifts from a zero state to a certain stroke. Then, a large force (a constant force) is suddenly applied from 0 as a reaction force to the clutch pedal. Therefore, the driver is given a “wall feeling” as a feeling of strangeness from the clutch pedal.

  On the other hand, in the invention described in Patent Document 2 described above, when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch via the clutch connecting / disconnecting device, the driver Only the reaction force due to the elastic force of the spring is felt. Since the elastic force of the spring increases substantially in proportion to the stroke, the driver says that the force (or reaction force) decreases in the section from point 50a to point 50b as shown in FIG. I can't feel the phenomenon. That is, the driver cannot recognize when the half-clutch is reached.

  On the other hand, according to the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to the present embodiment, even when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch, After an increasing elastic force (not constant) by the elastic member is applied, the clutch load is smoothly delivered. Therefore, the difference between the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver in such a case and the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver during normal manual operation can be reduced.

  In the various embodiments described above, the main body 100, the first member 200, the second member 300, the third member 400, and the fourth member 500 are all formed as cylindrical members. However, as long as the main body 100 and each member can be appropriately engaged with each other, and as long as each member can be appropriately engaged with each other, the main body and each member have a polygonal shape. You may make it form as a cylindrical member which has a cross section.

3. Effect clutch engaging and disengaging apparatus according to the first aspect, the clutch is capable of being connected to the clutch pedal and the actuator, a clutch engaging and disengaging device for controlling the disconnection and connection of the clutch, the other end from one end A first pressure chamber that communicates with the clutch at the one end, a second pressure chamber that communicates with the clutch pedal between the one end and the other end, and at the other end A main body having a third pressure chamber communicating with the actuator, and a cylindrical first inserted into the first pressure chamber, guided by the inner wall of the first pressure chamber, and slidable in the extending direction of the main body. It has a hollow shape with a member and a through-hole extending in the extending direction, and one end presses the first member and is guided by the inner wall of the main body to be slidable in the extending direction. Second member , One end is inserted into the through hole of the second member and is opposed to the first member, the other end is in a cylindrical shape inserted into the third pressure chamber, and the latch protrudes from the outer wall in the vicinity of the other end A third member that is slidable in the extending direction with the one end guided to the inner wall of the second member and the other end guided to the inner wall of the third pressure chamber, and the extending direction. A through hole is formed, and the third member is inserted through the through hole, and one end is inserted into the through hole of the second member and surrounded by the inner wall of the second member and the outer wall of the third member. The other end is a fourth member having a hollow and cylindrical shape opposite to the locking portion extending from the inner wall of the main body toward the central axis on the other end side of the main body from the other end, By extending along the outer periphery of the fourth member so as to contact the inner wall of the main body, A protrusion that forms the second pressure chamber surrounded by a wall, an outer wall of the fourth member, and the other end of the second member; and the inner wall of the second member and the outer wall of the third member And is arranged to extend in the extending direction between the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the third member. And an elastic member.

  According to this aspect, when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch, first, until the other end of the fourth member comes into contact with the locking portion of the main body. The clutch pedal is given an elastic force that gradually increases (not constant) by an elastic member disposed between the fourth member and the third member. After this, after the other end of the fourth member comes into contact with the locking portion of the main body, the pressure (clutch load) of the first pressure chamber 110 of the main body 100 is mainly applied to the clutch pedal. And is provided smoothly via the second member. Therefore, the difference between the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver in such a case and the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver during normal manual operation can be reduced. Accordingly, it is possible to provide a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that reduces a sense of discomfort given to a driver who steps on the clutch pedal when operating the clutch pedal.

  The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a second aspect is the first aspect, wherein the hydraulic oil flows into the second pressure chamber when the clutch pedal is depressed to disconnect the clutch. The second member pressed by oil slides toward the one end of the main body, the first member pressed by the second member slides toward the one end of the main body, and the first member The hydraulic oil pressed by the member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch.

  According to this aspect, during normal manual operation, the hydraulic pressure generated in the second pressure chamber due to the depression of the clutch pedal by the driver is ensured mainly via the second member and the first member. Is transmitted to the clutch.

  In the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a third aspect, in the second aspect, when the clutch pedal is released to engage the clutch, hydraulic fluid flows from the clutch into the first pressure chamber. Thus, the first member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the other end of the main body, and the second member pressed by the first member slides toward the other end of the main body. The hydraulic oil that is moved and pressed by the second member flows out from the second pressure chamber to the clutch pedal.

  According to this aspect, when the clutch pedal is released by the driver during normal manual operation, the clutch load is reliably transmitted to the clutch pedal mainly through the first member and the second member. .

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect, when the actuator is actuated to disengage the clutch, the hydraulic oil flows from the actuator into the third pressure chamber. The third member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end of the main body, the first member pressed by the third member slides toward the one end of the main body, and the first member The hydraulic oil pressed by one member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch.

  According to this aspect, when the actuator is operated to disconnect the clutch, the hydraulic pressure generated in the third pressure chamber by the operation of the actuator is reliably transmitted to the clutch mainly through the third member and the first member. Is done.

  According to a fifth aspect of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device, in the fourth aspect, the fourth member pressed by the third member via the elastic member slides toward the one end of the main body. A gap is formed between the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the main body, and the second member pressed by the fourth member moves toward the one end of the main body. Slide without changing the volume.

  According to this aspect, the second member pressed by the fourth member slides toward one end of the main body without changing the volume of the second pressure chamber. It is not pushed from. Therefore, the uncomfortable feeling given to the driver can be suppressed. Further, a gap is formed between the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the main body, so that when the clutch pedal is stepped on in this state, the fourth member resists the elastic force. It can be slid toward the other end.

  According to a sixth aspect of the clutch connecting / disconnecting device, in the fifth aspect, when the clutch is engaged, hydraulic oil flows out from the third pressure chamber to the actuator, and from the clutch to the first pressure chamber. When the hydraulic oil flows into the first member, the first member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the other end of the main body, and the third member pressed by the first member becomes the first member of the main body. The second member that slides toward the other end and is pressed by the first member slides toward the other end of the main body, and the fourth member that is pressed by the second member is the main body Slide toward the other end.

  According to this aspect, when the clutch is engaged after the actuator is operated to disconnect the clutch, the clutch load is reliably transmitted to the actuator mainly through the first member and the third member.

  A clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a seventh aspect is the fifth aspect, wherein the hydraulic oil flows into the second pressure chamber when the clutch pedal is depressed to disconnect the clutch. The fourth member pressed by oil slides toward the other end of the main body against the elastic member, and the other end of the fourth member abuts on the locking portion of the main body. Thereafter, the second member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end of the main body, and the first member pressed by the second member slides toward the one end of the main body. The hydraulic oil pressed by the first member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch.

  According to this aspect, when the driver steps on the clutch pedal while the actuator is operating to disconnect the clutch, first, until the other end of the fourth member comes into contact with the locking portion of the main body. The clutch pedal is given an elastic force that gradually increases (not constant) by an elastic member disposed between the fourth member and the third member. Thereafter, after the other end of the fourth member comes into contact with the locking portion of the main body, the pressure (clutch load) of the first pressure chamber 110 of the main body 100 is applied to the clutch pedal. It is given smoothly through two members. Therefore, the difference between the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver in such a case and the reaction force of the clutch pedal felt by the driver during normal manual operation can be reduced.

  In the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to an eighth aspect, in any one of the first aspect to the seventh aspect, the through hole of the second member is adjacent to the one end of the second member. A first region having an inner diameter of 1, a second region adjacent to the first region and having a second inner diameter greater than the first inner diameter, and a second region adjacent to the second region and larger than the second inner diameter. A third region having an inner diameter of 3, the third member having a cylindrical first portion having a first outer diameter, and between the first portion and the other end of the third member. A cylindrical second portion having a second outer diameter larger than the first outer diameter, wherein the third member has an inner wall that surrounds the first region of the second member. And the second part is slidable in the extending direction by being guided by an inner wall surrounding the second region of the second member. And the third member has a length larger than the length of the first region of the second member in the extending direction, so that the first portion and the second member of the second member are A first space is formed between an inner wall surrounding the second region, and the fourth member has one end of the fourth member, the inner wall surrounding the third region of the second member, and the third member. By being inserted between the second portion and the second portion, the inner wall surrounding the third region of the second member and the outer wall of the second portion of the third member are guided and slidable in the extending direction. is there.

  According to this aspect, the second member, the third member, and the fourth member can slide along the extending direction with respect to each other.

  In the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a ninth aspect, in the eighth aspect, the third member is a vent hole penetrating through the inside of the third member, of the first portion of the third member. An opening formed in an outer wall disposed in the second region of the second member, and the fourth portion of the second member of the third member on the other end side of the main body from the fourth member. A vent hole is provided for communicating with an opening formed in the outer wall not covered with the member.

  According to this aspect, when the third member (or the second member) slides in a direction approaching the second member (or the third member) in order to reduce the volume of the first space, the first space Such sliding can be allowed by discharging the air present in the outside to the outside of the main body through these openings and the air holes communicating these openings. Conversely, when the third member (or the second member) slides away from the second member (or the third member) in order to increase the volume of the first space, it exists outside the main body. Such sliding can be tolerated by introducing air into the space 146 through these openings and the vents communicating these openings.

  In the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a tenth aspect, in the eighth aspect or the ninth aspect, the third member is a vent hole penetrating through the inside of the third member, An opening formed in the outer wall disposed in the third region of the second member of the second part, and the other end side of the main body from the fourth member of the second part of the third member. There is a vent hole that communicates with an opening formed in the outer wall that is not covered by the fourth member.

  According to this aspect, when the fourth member (or the second member) slides in a direction away from the second member (or the fourth member), in the space between the fourth member and the second member, Such sliding can be allowed by introducing air existing outside the main body through the openings and the air holes communicating these openings. Conversely, when the fourth member (or the second member) slides in a direction approaching the second member (or the fourth member), the air present in the space between the fourth member and the second member is removed. Such sliding can be allowed by discharging to the outside of the main body through the openings and the vent holes communicating with the openings.

  A clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to an eleventh aspect is any one of the eighth aspect to the tenth aspect, is arranged in the first space, and the second member and the third member are mutually connected. It has an elastic member that urges in a direction away from it.

  According to this aspect, in the state where the second member is allowed to slide in the direction toward the one end of the main body, for example, even when the second member has the oil spring, the second member quickly moves in the direction toward the one end of the main body. The third member can be slid, and in a state where sliding in the direction toward the other end of the main body is allowed, the third member is in a direction toward the other end of the main body even if it has an oil spring, for example. Can slide quickly.

  In the clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a twelfth aspect, in any one of the first aspect to the eleventh aspect, the second member has a first portion having the same outer diameter as the first member; A second portion adjacent to the first portion and having an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first portion, wherein the clutch connecting / disconnecting device is further provided in the main body, and the first pressure A second space adjacent to the chamber and having an inner diameter larger than that of the first pressure chamber, between the inner wall of the second space and the outer wall of the first member and the outer wall of the first portion of the second member. And a second space communicating with the outside of the main body.

  According to this aspect, when the second member slides to reduce the volume of the second space, the second member releases such air by releasing the air existing in the second space to the outside of the main body. Can be tolerated. On the other hand, when the second member slides to increase the volume of the second space, the second member allows such sliding by introducing air existing outside the main body into the second space. Can do.

  In a twelfth aspect, a clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a thirteenth aspect includes an elastic member that is disposed in the second space and biases the second member in a direction away from the one end of the main body.

  According to this aspect, in the state where the second member is allowed to slide in the direction toward the other end of the main body, for example, even when it has an oil spring, the second member is in the direction toward the other end of the main body. It can slide quickly.

  A clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to a fourteenth aspect according to any one of the first aspect to the thirteenth aspect is disposed between the one end of the main body and the first member in the first pressure chamber. And an elastic member that urges the first member in a direction away from the one end of the main body.

  According to this aspect, in the state where the first member is allowed to slide in the direction toward the other end of the main body, even if the first member has the oil spring, the first member is quickly moved in the direction toward the other end of the main body. Can slide.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, it is possible to provide a clutch connecting / disconnecting device that reduces a sense of discomfort given to a driver who steps on the clutch pedal when operating the clutch pedal.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Clutch connection / disconnection apparatus 20 Clutch 30 Clutch pedal 40 Actuator 100 Main body (main cylinder)
X Extension direction of main body 102 One end 104 Other end 114, 122, 132 Pipe 154 Locking portion 110 First pressure chamber 118 Second pressure chamber 128 Third pressure chamber 200 First member (first piston)
300 Second member (second piston)
302 One end 304 Other end 306 First cylindrical portion 308 Second cylindrical portion 310 Third cylindrical portion 312 Through hole 312a First region 312b Second region 312c Third region 400 Third member (third piston)
402 One end 404 Other end 406 First cylindrical portion 408 Second cylindrical portion 418 Locking portion 500 Fourth member (fourth piston)
502 one end 504 other end 506 through-hole 508 protrusion 600 first elastic member (coil spring)
700 Second elastic member (coil spring)
800 Third elastic member (coil spring)
900 4th elastic member (coil spring)

Claims (14)

A clutch connecting / disconnecting device that can be connected to a clutch, a clutch pedal, and an actuator, and controls disconnection and connection of the clutch,
A hollow and cylindrical shape extending from one end to the other end, communicating with the clutch at the one end, a second pressure chamber communicating with the clutch pedal between the one end and the other end, and A main body having a third pressure chamber communicating with the actuator at the other end;
A cylindrical first member that is inserted into the first pressure chamber, is guided by an inner wall of the first pressure chamber, and is slidable in the extending direction of the main body;
A second member that has a hollow and cylindrical shape with a through-hole extending in the extending direction, has one end pressing the first member, is guided by the inner wall of the main body, and is slidable in the extending direction. When,
One end is inserted into the through hole of the second member and faces the first member, and the other end has a cylindrical shape inserted into the third pressure chamber, and protrudes from the outer wall near the other end. A third member slidable in the extending direction with the one end guided to the inner wall of the second member and the other end guided to the inner wall of the third pressure chamber;
A through hole extending in the extending direction is formed, the third member is inserted into the through hole, and one end is inserted into the through hole of the second member, and the inner wall of the second member and the third member A hollow and tubular fourth member surrounded by an outer wall and having the other end opposed to a locking portion extending from the inner wall of the main body toward the central axis on the other end side of the main body from the other end. There,
The second pressure surrounded by the inner wall of the main body, the outer wall of the fourth member, and the other end of the second member by extending along the outer periphery of the fourth member so as to contact the inner wall of the main body A protrusion forming a chamber,
A fourth member that is guided by the inner wall of the second member and the outer wall of the third member and is slidable in the extending direction;
An elastic member arranged to extend in the extending direction between the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the third member;
A clutch connecting / disconnecting device. When the clutch pedal is depressed to disengage the clutch,
When hydraulic oil flows into the second pressure chamber,
The second member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end of the main body, the first member pressed by the second member slides toward the one end of the main body, The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 1, wherein the hydraulic oil pressed by the first member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch. When the clutch pedal is released to engage the clutch,
When hydraulic oil flows from the clutch into the first pressure chamber, the first member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the other end of the main body and is pressed by the first member. The clutch disengagement according to claim 2, wherein the second member slides toward the other end of the main body, and hydraulic oil pressed by the second member flows out from the second pressure chamber to the clutch pedal. Connecting device. When the actuator is actuated to disengage the clutch,
When the hydraulic oil flows from the actuator into the third pressure chamber, the third member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end of the main body, and the third member is pressed by the third member. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 1, wherein the first member slides toward the one end of the main body, and hydraulic oil pressed by the first member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch. When the fourth member pressed by the third member via the elastic member slides toward the one end of the main body, the other end of the fourth member and the locking portion of the main body A gap is created between
The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 4, wherein the second member pressed by the fourth member slides toward the one end of the main body without changing the volume of the second pressure chamber. When engaging the clutch,
The hydraulic oil flows out from the third pressure chamber into the actuator, and the hydraulic oil flows into the first pressure chamber from the clutch, so that the first member pressed by the hydraulic oil is moved to the other end of the main body. The third member pressed against the first member slides toward the other end of the main body, and the second member pressed against the first member corresponds to the other of the main body. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 5, wherein the fourth member that slides toward the end and that is pressed by the second member slides toward the other end of the main body. When the clutch pedal is depressed to disengage the clutch,
When the hydraulic oil flows into the second pressure chamber, the fourth member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the other end of the main body against the elastic member, and the fourth member After the other end of the main body abuts on the locking portion of the main body, the second member pressed by the hydraulic oil slides toward the one end of the main body and is pressed by the second member. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 5, wherein the first member slides toward the one end of the main body, and hydraulic oil pressed by the first member flows out from the first pressure chamber to the clutch. . The through hole of the second member has a first region adjacent to the one end of the second member and having a first inner diameter, and a second inner diameter adjacent to the first region and larger than the first inner diameter. A second region having, and a third region adjacent to the second region and having a third inner diameter greater than the second inner diameter,
The third member includes a cylindrical first portion having a first outer diameter, and a second outer portion that is larger than the first outer diameter between the first portion and the other end of the third member. A cylindrical second part having a diameter,
The third member is guided by an inner wall surrounding the first region of the second member with the first portion, and guided by an inner wall surrounding the second region of the second member. Slidable in the extending direction;
In the third member, the first portion has a length greater than the length of the first region of the second member in the extending direction, so that the first portion and the second region of the second member are Forming a first space with the inner wall surrounding
The fourth member is configured such that the one end of the fourth member is inserted between an inner wall surrounding the third region of the second member and the second portion of the third member. 8. It is slidable in the extending direction while being guided by an inner wall surrounding the third region of the member and an outer wall of the second portion of the third member. Clutch connecting and disconnecting device.   The third member is a vent hole penetrating through the inside of the third member, and is formed on an outer wall disposed in the second region of the second member of the first portion of the third member. A vent hole that communicates an opening and an opening formed on the other end side of the main body of the second member of the third member and not covered by the fourth member. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 8, comprising:   The third member is a vent hole penetrating the inside of the third member, and is formed on an outer wall arranged in the third region of the second member of the second portion of the third member. A vent hole that communicates an opening and an opening formed on the other end side of the main body of the second member of the third member and not covered by the fourth member. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 8 or 9, comprising:   11. The clutch disengagement according to claim 8, further comprising an elastic member that is disposed in the first space and biases the second member and the third member away from each other. Connecting device. The second member includes a first portion having the same outer diameter as the first member, and a second portion adjacent to the first portion and having an outer diameter larger than the outer diameter of the first portion. Including
The clutch connecting / disconnecting device further includes:
A second space provided in the main body, adjacent to the first pressure chamber and having an inner diameter larger than the first pressure chamber, the inner wall of the second space, the outer wall of the first member, and the second member The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to any one of claims 1 to 11, further comprising a second space communicating with an outer wall of the first portion of the main body.   The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 12, further comprising an elastic member disposed in the second space and biasing the second member in a direction away from the one end of the main body.   From the said 1st pressure chamber, it is arrange | positioned between the said one end of the said main body, and the said 1st member, and comprises the elastic member which urges | biases the said 1st member in the direction away from the said one end of the said main body. The clutch connecting / disconnecting device according to claim 13.

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