JP6112068B2 - Meshing clutch - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a meshing clutch interposed in a power transmission path between a driving force source and driving wheels.

  A connection / disconnection mechanism that is interposed in a power transmission path between a driving force source and a drive wheel and connects / disconnects the power transmission path is well known. For example, this is the power shut-off mechanism described in Patent Document 1. In Patent Document 1, in a continuously variable transmission having a forward / reverse switching mechanism on the upstream side in a power transmission path between a driving force source and driving wheels, the hydraulic pressure supply from the hydraulic pump is stopped by stopping the operation of the engine. It is disclosed that the power shut-off mechanism shuts off the power transmission path between the forward / reverse switching mechanism and the drive wheels. As a result, the rotation input from the drive wheels is not transmitted to the forward / reverse switching mechanism, so that the vehicle is pulled in a state where the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission is the speed ratio on the lowest vehicle speed side (lowest speed ratio). Even in this case, it is avoided that the member (for example, pinion gear) constituting the forward / reverse switching mechanism is rotated at a high speed, and the durability of the forward / reverse switching mechanism is prevented from being lowered.

JP 2011-220381 A

  By the way, if the power transmission path between the forward / reverse switching mechanism and the drive wheels is interrupted every time the engine is stopped, it is necessary to connect the power transmission path every time the engine is started. Then, since the vehicle cannot be started until the connection of the power transmission path is completed, the start response of the vehicle may be lowered. Therefore, considering the vehicle start response, it is desirable to connect the power transmission path while the engine is stopped. The above-mentioned problems are not known and are suitable for both when the vehicle is towed and when the vehicle is started by the meshing clutch interposed in the power transmission path between the driving force source and the driving wheel. In addition, it has not yet been proposed to establish the state of the power transmission path when the engine is stopped.

  The present invention has been made against the background of the above circumstances. The purpose of the present invention is to provide meshing that can maintain the engaged state while the driving force source is stopped and that can be released when the vehicle is towed. Is to provide a clutch.

  The gist of the first invention for achieving the above object is that (a) a pressing force that is interposed in a power transmission path between the driving force source and the driving wheel and presses the sleeve toward the release side is An engagement force that is always applied to the sleeve and moves the sleeve toward the engagement side against the pressing force during the operation of the driving force source can be applied to the sleeve. A meshing clutch that is engaged when the resultant force is greater than a predetermined value, and (b) when the rotational speed of the sleeve is lower than a predetermined rotation after the meshing clutch is engaged; Holds the engagement state of the meshing clutch mechanically, and releases the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch when the rotational speed of the sleeve is higher than the predetermined rotation. To have a mechanism

  If it does in this way, the meshing-type clutch will be made into an engagement state because the said engagement force made to act on the said sleeve during operation | movement of the said driving force source becomes larger than a predetermined value. In the engaged state of the meshing clutch, even if the engagement force is made smaller than a predetermined value due to the stop of the driving force source or the like, if the rotational speed of the sleeve is lower than the predetermined rotation (for example, When the vehicle is stopped), the engagement state of the meshing clutch is mechanically held by the engagement holding mechanism. Therefore, the meshing clutch can be kept engaged while the driving force source is stopped. This contributes to quick vehicle start immediately after the driving force source is activated. In addition, the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch by the engagement holding mechanism is released when the rotation speed of the sleeve is higher than the predetermined rotation (for example, when the rotation of the driving wheel is increased). Is done. During the release of the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch, if the engagement force is made smaller than a predetermined value due to the stop of the driving force source or the like, it is always applied to the sleeve. The meshing clutch is released by the pressing force being applied. Thus, the meshing clutch can be released when the vehicle is towed.

  Here, the second invention is the meshing clutch according to the first invention, wherein the engagement holding mechanism is formed on an inner peripheral surface of the sleeve that is spline-fitted with a clutch hub. An accommodation hole extending outward, a lock ball accommodated in the accommodation hole so as to be slidable in the radial direction and projecting inward in the radial direction, and between the lock ball and a bottom surface of the accommodation hole capable of expansion and contraction in the radial direction And a part of the lock ball at the position of the sleeve, which is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the clutch hub that is spline-fitted with the sleeve, and in which the meshing clutch is engaged. And a recess for receiving. In this way, even if the engagement force is made smaller than a predetermined value after the meshing clutch is engaged, the lock ball is pressed against the recess by the spring, so that the meshing type The engagement state of the clutch is mechanically properly held by the engagement holding mechanism. In addition, the rotational speed of the sleeve is set higher than the predetermined rotation in a state where the engagement force is smaller than a predetermined value, so that the lock ball moves radially outward by a centrifugal force that opposes the force of the spring. (I.e., in the direction of escaping from the concave portion), the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch by the engagement holding mechanism is appropriately released, and the pressing is always applied to the sleeve The meshing clutch is released by force.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the meshing clutch according to the first or second invention, the meshing clutch is provided in a power transmission device of a vehicle, and the power transmission device is A differential mechanism having three rotating elements, an input element, an output element, and a reaction force element, interposed in the power transmission path on the upstream side of the meshing clutch is provided. In this way, when the meshing clutch is released when the vehicle is towed, the rotation input from the drive wheels is not transmitted to the differential mechanism upstream of the meshing clutch, An increase in the differential rotational speed between the elements of the differential mechanism is avoided, and a decrease in the durability of the differential mechanism can be avoided when the vehicle is towed.

It is a figure explaining the schematic structure of the vehicle to which the present invention is applied. It is a figure for demonstrating switching of the running pattern of a power transmission device. It is a figure for demonstrating the switching action of the engagement state in a meshing type clutch, and a releasing state, Comprising: It is a figure which shows the embodiment when it exists in a releasing state. It is a figure for demonstrating the switching action of the engagement state in a meshing type clutch, and a releasing state, Comprising: It is a figure which shows the embodiment when it exists in an engagement state.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a vehicle 10 to which the present invention is applied. In FIG. 1, a vehicle 10 includes an engine 12 that functions as a driving force source for traveling, drive wheels 14, and a power transmission device 16 provided between the engine 12 and the drive wheels 14. The power transmission device 16 is connected to a known torque converter 20 as a fluid transmission device connected to the engine 12, an input shaft 22 connected to the torque converter 20, and an input shaft 22 in a housing 18 as a non-rotating member. A known belt-type continuously variable transmission 24 (hereinafter referred to as a continuously variable transmission 24) as a continuously variable transmission mechanism, a forward / reverse switching device 26 connected to the input shaft 22, and a forward / reverse switching device 26. A gear mechanism 28 as a transmission mechanism connected to the shaft 22 and provided in parallel with the continuously variable transmission 24, an output shaft 30 that is a common output rotating member of the continuously variable transmission 24 and the gear mechanism 28, a counter shaft 32, A reduction gear device 34 comprising a pair of gears that are provided in mesh with each other on the output shaft 30 and the counter shaft 32, and a gear 3 that is provided on the counter shaft 32 so as not to be relatively rotatable. Differential gear 38 connected to, and includes an axle 40 or the like of the pair coupled to a differential gear 38. In the power transmission device 16 configured as described above, the power of the engine 12 (the torque and the force are synonymous unless otherwise specified) is transmitted to the torque converter 20, the continuously variable transmission 24 (or the forward / reverse switching device 26 and the gear mechanism 28). ), The reduction gear device 34, the differential gear 38, the axle 40, and the like are sequentially transmitted to the pair of drive wheels 14.

  As described above, the power transmission device 16 transmits the power of the engine 12 to the engine 12 (here, the input shaft 22 which is an input rotating member to which the power of the engine 12 is transmitted) and the driving wheel 14 (here, the driving wheel 14 is transmitted). A continuously variable transmission 24 and a gear mechanism 28 are provided in parallel with the output shaft 30 which is an output rotating member for output. Therefore, the power transmission device 16 transmits the power of the engine 12 from the input shaft 22 to the drive wheel 14 side (that is, the output shaft 30) via the continuously variable transmission 24, and the power of the engine 12. A second power transmission path for transmitting from the input shaft 22 to the drive wheel 14 side (that is, the output shaft 30) via the gear mechanism 28, and depending on the traveling state of the vehicle 10, the first power transmission path and the second power transmission path. The power transmission path is configured to be switched. Therefore, the power transmission device 16 serves as a clutch that selectively switches a power transmission path for transmitting the power of the engine 12 to the drive wheel 14 side between the first power transmission path and the second power transmission path. A CVT travel clutch C2 as a first clutch that connects and disconnects one power transmission path, and a forward clutch C1 and a reverse brake B1 as second clutches that connect and disconnect the second power transmission path. The CVT travel clutch C2, the forward clutch C1, and the reverse brake B1 are equivalent to a connection / disconnection device, and are all known hydraulic friction engagement devices (friction clutches) that are frictionally engaged by a hydraulic actuator. It is. Further, each of the forward clutch C1 and the reverse brake B1 is one of the elements constituting the forward / reverse switching device 26, as will be described later.

  The torque converter 20 is provided coaxially with the input shaft 22 around the input shaft 22, and includes a pump impeller 20 p connected to the engine 12 and a turbine impeller 20 t connected to the input shaft 22. ing. The pump impeller 20p controls the speed of the continuously variable transmission 24, generates a belt clamping pressure in the continuously variable transmission 24, switches the operation of each clutch, and the power transmission path of the power transmission device 16. A mechanical oil pump 41 that is generated when the engine 12 is rotationally driven by a working hydraulic pressure for supplying lubricating oil to the respective parts is connected.

  The forward / reverse switching device 26 is provided coaxially with the input shaft 22 around the input shaft 22 in the second power transmission path, and includes a double pinion planetary gear device 26p, a forward clutch C1, and a reverse drive. A brake B1 is provided. The planetary gear device 26p is a differential mechanism having three rotating elements: a carrier 26c as an input element, a sun gear 26s as an output element, and a ring gear 26r as a reaction force element. The carrier 26c is integrally connected to the input shaft 22, the ring gear 26r is selectively connected to the housing 18 via the reverse brake B1, and the sun gear 26s is coaxial with the input shaft 22 around the input shaft 22. It is connected to a small diameter gear 42 provided so as to be relatively rotatable. The carrier 26c and the sun gear 26s are selectively connected via the forward clutch C1. Therefore, the forward clutch C1 is a clutch mechanism that selectively connects two of the three rotating elements, and the reverse brake B1 selectively connects the reaction force element to the housing 18. It is a clutch mechanism.

  The gear mechanism 28 includes a small-diameter gear 42 and a large-diameter gear 46 that is provided around the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 so as not to rotate relative to the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 and meshes with the small-diameter gear 42. Yes. Further, the gear mechanism 28 is coaxial with the output shaft 30 around the output shaft 30 and the idler gear 48 provided around the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 so as to be relatively rotatable coaxially with the gear mechanism counter shaft 44. An output gear 50 that is provided in the center so as not to be relatively rotatable and meshes with the idler gear 48 is provided. The output gear 50 has a larger diameter than the idler gear 48. Accordingly, the gear mechanism 28 is a transmission mechanism in which one gear ratio (gear stage) as a predetermined gear ratio (gear stage) is formed in the power transmission path between the input shaft 22 and the output shaft 30. Around the gear mechanism counter shaft 44, a meshing clutch D1 is provided between the large-diameter gear 46 and the idler gear 48 so as to selectively connect and disconnect between them. The meshing clutch D1 is provided in the power transmission device 16 (that is, interposed in the power transmission path between the engine 12 and the drive wheel 14), and has a power transmission path from the sun gear 26s to the output shaft 30. This is a meshing clutch that is connected and disconnected, and functions as a third clutch that is provided closer to the output shaft 30 than the forward clutch C1 and that connects and disconnects the second power transmission path.

  Specifically, the meshing clutch D1 includes a clutch hub 52 provided around the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 so as not to rotate relative to the gear mechanism counter shaft 44, an idler gear 48, and the clutch hub 52. A clutch gear 54 disposed between and fixed to the idler gear 48 is spline-fitted to the clutch hub 52 so that the gear mechanism countershaft 44 cannot rotate relative to the axis C of the gear mechanism countershaft 44. And a cylindrical sleeve 56 provided so as to be capable of relative movement in a direction parallel to the axis. The inner peripheral tooth 56s of the inner peripheral surface 56in of the sleeve 56, which is spline-fitted with the outer peripheral teeth (not shown) of the outer peripheral surface 52out of the clutch hub 52, moves the sleeve 56 toward the clutch gear 54 so that the clutch It meshes with the outer peripheral teeth 54s of the gear 54 (see FIGS. 3 and 4). The idler gear 48 and the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 are connected by meshing the clutch gear 54 with a sleeve 56 that is always rotated integrally with the clutch hub 52. Further, the meshing clutch D1 includes a known synchromesh mechanism S1 as a synchronizing mechanism that synchronizes rotation when the sleeve 56 and the clutch gear 54 are engaged.

  In the meshing clutch D1 configured as described above, the fork shaft 58 is operated by the actuator 60 (see FIGS. 3 and 4), whereby the sleeve 56 is geared via the shift fork 62 fixed to the fork shaft 58. The mechanism counter shaft 44 is slid in a direction parallel to the axis C of the mechanism counter shaft 44 to switch between the engaged state and the released state. In the power transmission device 16, in the second power transmission path, the forward clutch C1 (or the reverse brake B1) and the meshing clutch D1 are engaged together, so that the forward power transmission path (or the reverse power) Transmission path) is established, and the power of the engine 12 is transmitted from the input shaft 22 to the output shaft 30 via the gear mechanism 28. In the power transmission device 16, when at least the forward clutch C1 and the reverse brake B1 are both released or at least the meshing clutch D1 is released, the second power transmission path is in a neutral state in which power transmission is interrupted ( Power transmission cut-off state).

  The continuously variable transmission 24 is provided on a power transmission path between the input shaft 22 and the output shaft 30. The continuously variable transmission 24 includes a primary pulley 64 having a variable effective diameter provided on the input shaft 22, a secondary pulley 68 having a variable effective diameter provided on a rotating shaft 66 coaxial with the output shaft 30, and a pair thereof. And a transmission belt 70 wound between the pulleys 64 and 68, and power is transmitted through a frictional force between the pair of pulleys 64 and 68 and the transmission belt 70. In the continuously variable transmission 24, the V groove width of the pair of pulleys 64 and 68 changes to change the engagement diameter (effective diameter) of the transmission belt 70, thereby changing the transmission ratio (gear ratio) γ (= input shaft rotation). Speed Ni / output shaft rotational speed No) is continuously changed. The CVT travel clutch C2 is provided closer to the drive wheel 14 than the continuously variable transmission 24 (that is, provided between the secondary pulley 68 and the output shaft 30), and the secondary pulley 68 (rotary shaft 66). And the output shaft 30 are selectively connected or disconnected. In the power transmission device 16, the CVT travel clutch C <b> 2 is engaged in the first power transmission path, whereby the power transmission path is established, and the power of the engine 12 is transmitted from the input shaft 22 to the continuously variable transmission 24. Is transmitted to the output shaft 30 via. In the power transmission device 16, when the CVT travel clutch C2 is released, the first power transmission path is set to the neutral state.

  The operation of the power transmission device 16 will be described below. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the switching of the travel pattern using the engagement table of the engagement elements for each travel pattern of the power transmission device 16. In FIG. 2, C1 corresponds to the operating state of the forward clutch C1, C2 corresponds to the operating state of the CVT traveling clutch C2, B1 corresponds to the operating state of the reverse brake B1, and D1 is the meshing clutch D1. "○" indicates engagement (connection), and "x" indicates release (cutoff).

  First, gear traveling, which is a traveling pattern in which the power of the engine 12 is transmitted to the output shaft 30 via the gear mechanism 28 (that is, a traveling pattern in which power is transmitted through the second power transmission path) will be described. In this gear travel, as shown in FIG. 2, for example, the forward clutch C1 and the meshing clutch D1 are engaged, while the CVT travel clutch C2 and the reverse brake B1 are released.

  Specifically, when the forward clutch C1 is engaged, the planetary gear device 26p constituting the forward / reverse switching device 26 is integrally rotated, so that the small-diameter gear 42 is rotated at the same rotational speed as the input shaft 22. . Further, since the small-diameter gear 42 is meshed with the large-diameter gear 46 provided on the gear mechanism counter shaft 44, the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 is similarly rotated. Further, since the meshing clutch D1 is engaged, the gear mechanism counter shaft 44 and the idler gear 48 are connected. Since the idler gear 48 is meshed with the output gear 50, the output shaft 30 provided integrally with the output gear 50 is rotated. Thus, when the forward clutch C1 and the meshing clutch D1 are engaged, the power of the engine 12 is transmitted to the output shaft 30 via the torque converter 20, the forward / reverse switching device 26, the gear mechanism 28, and the like sequentially. The In this gear travel, for example, when the reverse brake B1 and the meshing clutch D1 are engaged, the reverse travel is enabled when the CVT travel clutch C2 and the forward clutch C1 are released.

  Next, CVT traveling, which is a traveling pattern in which the power of the engine 12 is transmitted to the output shaft 30 via the continuously variable transmission 24 (that is, a traveling pattern in which power is transmitted through the first power transmission path) will be described. In this CVT travel, as shown in CVT travel (high vehicle speed) in FIG. 2, for example, the CVT travel clutch C2 is engaged, while the forward clutch C1, the reverse brake B1, and the meshing clutch D1 are released. The

  Specifically, when the CVT travel clutch C2 is engaged, the secondary pulley 68 and the output shaft 30 are connected, so that the secondary pulley 68 and the output shaft 30 are integrally rotated. As described above, when the CVT traveling clutch C2 is engaged, the power of the engine 12 is transmitted to the output shaft 30 via the torque converter 20, the continuously variable transmission 24, and the like sequentially. The meshing clutch D1 is released during the CVT traveling (high vehicle speed), for example, the drag mechanism of the gear mechanism 28 and the like during the CVT traveling is eliminated, and the components of the gear mechanism 28 and the planetary gear unit 26p (at the high vehicle speed). For example, pinion gears) are prevented from rotating at a high speed.

  The gear traveling is selected in a low vehicle speed region including, for example, when the vehicle is stopped. The gear ratio γ1 (that is, the gear ratio EL formed by the gear mechanism 28) in the second power transmission path is the maximum gear ratio formed by the continuously variable transmission 24 (that is, the lowest gear that is the lowest gear speed side gear ratio). Ratio) is set to a value larger than γmax (that is, the gear ratio on the low side). For example, the gear ratio γ1 corresponds to the first speed gear ratio γ1 that is the gear ratio of the first speed gear stage in the power transmission device 16, and the lowest gear ratio γmax of the continuously variable transmission 24 is the second gear ratio γmax in the power transmission device 16. This corresponds to the second speed gear ratio γ2 that is the gear ratio of the speed gear stage. Therefore, for example, gear traveling and CVT traveling are switched according to a shift line for switching between the first speed gear stage and the second speed gear stage in a known shift map of a stepped transmission. Further, for example, in CVT running, a shift (for example, CVT shift, continuously variable shift) in which the gear ratio γ is changed based on a running state such as an accelerator opening degree and a vehicle speed is executed using a known method. Here, when switching from gear travel to CVT travel (high vehicle speed), or from CVT travel (high vehicle speed) to gear travel, as shown in FIG. 2, the CVT travel (medium vehicle speed) is switched via a transition. It is done.

  For example, when switching from gear traveling to CVT traveling (high vehicle speed), the CVT traveling clutch C2 and the meshing clutch D1 are engaged from the state in which the forward clutch C1 and the meshing clutch D1 corresponding to the gear traveling are engaged. The vehicle is transitively switched to the CVT traveling (medium vehicle speed) that has been performed. That is, a shift (for example, clutch-to-clutch shift (hereinafter referred to as CtoC shift)) is performed in which the forward clutch C1 is released and the CVT travel clutch C2 is engaged. At this time, the power transmission path is changed from the second power transmission path to the first power transmission path, and the power transmission device 16 is substantially upshifted. Then, after the power transmission path is switched, the meshing clutch D1 is released in order to prevent unnecessary dragging of the gear mechanism 28 and the like and high rotation in the planetary gear unit 26p (see driven input cutoff in FIG. 2). ). In this way, the meshing clutch D1 functions as a driven input cutoff clutch that blocks input from the drive wheel 14 side.

  In addition, for example, when switching from CVT travel (high vehicle speed) to gear travel, the meshing clutch D1 is further engaged in preparation for switching from gear CVT travel clutch C2 to gear travel. The vehicle is transiently switched to CVT running (medium vehicle speed) (see the downshift preparation in FIG. 2). In this CVT traveling (medium vehicle speed), the rotation is transmitted to the sun gear 26s of the planetary gear unit 26p via the gear mechanism 28. When a shift (for example, CtoC shift) is executed to release the CVT travel clutch C2 and engage the forward clutch C1 from this CVT travel (medium vehicle speed) state, the operation is switched to gear travel. . At this time, the power transmission path is changed from the first power transmission path to the second power transmission path, and the power transmission device 16 is substantially downshifted.

  3 and 4 are diagrams for explaining the switching operation between the engaged state and the released state in the meshing clutch D1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an embodiment when the meshing clutch D1 is in a released state. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an embodiment when the meshing clutch D1 is in an engaged state.

  In FIG. 3 and FIG. 4, the meshing clutch D <b> 1 always causes the pressing force that presses the sleeve 56 toward the release side by the urging force of the return spring 60 a of the actuator 60 to act on the sleeve 56 via the fork shaft 58 and the shift fork 62. It has been. Further, during operation of the engine 12, the hydraulic pressure Pd1 regulated by a hydraulic control circuit (not shown) is generated in the oil chamber 60 b of the actuator 60 using the hydraulic pressure generated by the oil pump 41 rotated by the engine 12 as a source pressure. By being supplied, a pressing force that opposes the urging force of the return spring 60 a is generated, and an engaging force that moves the sleeve 56 toward the engaging side against the pressing force is transmitted via the fork shaft 58 and the shift fork 62. To act on the sleeve 56. When the hydraulic pressure Pd1 larger than the predetermined hydraulic pressure is not supplied to the oil chamber 60b and the engagement force is smaller than the predetermined value, as shown in FIG. 3, the meshing clutch D1 is moved by the pressing force by the urging force of the return spring 60a. The sleeve 56 is moved to a position to be in the released state. On the other hand, when a hydraulic pressure Pd1 larger than a predetermined hydraulic pressure is supplied to the oil chamber 60b and the engagement force is larger than a predetermined value, the sleeve 56 is moved to a position where the meshing clutch D1 is engaged. For example, the predetermined value is obtained experimentally or design in advance as a lower limit hydraulic pressure Pd1 for moving the sleeve 56 to a position where the meshing clutch D1 is engaged (that is, determined in advance). This corresponds to the engaging force applied to the sleeve 56 by a predetermined hydraulic pressure. The predetermined oil pressure may be a value that can be changed based on, for example, the oil temperature.

  Here, when the meshing clutch D1 is engaged when the engine is stopped, the differential rotational speed between the elements of the planetary gear unit 26p is increased by the rotation input from the drive wheel 14 side when the vehicle 10 is towed. (For example, the pinion gear of the planetary gear unit 26p is rotated at high speed), and the durability of the planetary gear unit 26p may be reduced. Therefore, assuming a towed state of the vehicle 10, it is desirable to keep the meshing clutch D1 in a released state when the engine is stopped. On the other hand, since the lowest gear ratio in the power transmission device 16 of the present embodiment is the gear ratio EL formed by the gear mechanism 28, the vehicle starts in a gear running where power is transmitted via the meshing clutch D1. That is appropriate. Therefore, in order to start the vehicle 10 quickly after the engine is started, it is desirable to keep the meshing clutch D1 engaged when the engine is stopped. Thus, the appropriate state of the meshing clutch D1 when the engine is stopped differs depending on whether the towed state is assumed when the engine is stopped or the vehicle starts after the engine is started. By the way, when the engine 12 is stopped before the engine 12 is started, the rotation of the oil pump 41 is also stopped. Therefore, the switching operation between the engagement and release of the meshing clutch D1 is performed by supplying and discharging the hydraulic pressure Pd1 with respect to the actuator 60. I can't. The present embodiment proposes a meshing clutch D1 that can cope with any of the above-mentioned assumptions based on the fact that the switching operation of the meshing clutch D1 by supplying and discharging the hydraulic pressure Pd1 cannot be performed when the engine is stopped.

  The meshing clutch D1 mechanically holds the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 when the rotational speed of the sleeve 56 is lower than a predetermined rotation after the meshing clutch D1 is engaged by supplying the hydraulic pressure Pd1. In addition, when the rotation speed of the sleeve 56 is higher than the predetermined rotation, an engagement holding mechanism 80 is further provided for releasing the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1. The predetermined rotation is, for example, the rotation speed of the lower limit sleeve 56 for releasing the mechanical holding by the engagement holding mechanism 80.

  Specifically, the engagement holding mechanism 80 includes an accommodation hole 82 formed on the inner peripheral surface 56in of the sleeve 56 and extending radially outward, and is capable of sliding in the radial direction and protruding inward in the radial direction. Formed on the outer peripheral surface 52out of the clutch hub 52, the spring 86 accommodated in the space between the lock ball 84 and the bottom surface 82b of the accommodation hole 82 so as to be expandable and contractable in the radial direction. And a recess 88 for receiving a part of the lock ball 84 at the position of the sleeve 56 where the meshing clutch D1 is engaged.

  In the meshing clutch D1 configured as described above, after the meshing clutch D1 is engaged by the supply of the hydraulic pressure Pd1, the hydraulic pressure Pd1 larger than the predetermined hydraulic pressure is not supplied due to the engine stop or the like, so that the sleeve Even if the engaging force applied to 56 is made smaller than a predetermined value, if the rotational speed of the sleeve 56 is lower than the predetermined rotation (for example, input from the drive wheels 14 in a vehicle stop state or at a low vehicle speed). If the rotation is low or low, the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 is mechanically held by the engagement holding mechanism 80 by the lock ball 84 being pressed against the recess 88 by the spring 86 as shown in FIG. Is done. The mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 by the engagement holding mechanism 80 is performed by making the rotation speed of the sleeve 56 higher than the predetermined rotation (for example, increasing the rotation of the drive wheel 14). When the lock ball 84 is moved radially outward (that is, in a direction to escape from the recess 88) by a centrifugal force that opposes the force of the spring 86, the lock ball 84 is released. When the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 by the engagement holding mechanism 80 is released while the engagement force applied to the sleeve 56 is smaller than a predetermined value, the return spring 60a is attached. As shown in FIG. 3, the meshing clutch D <b> 1 is released by the pressing force that is always applied to the sleeve 56 by the force.

  An example of a control operation by an electronic control unit (not shown) related to maintaining the engaged state of the meshing clutch D1 is shown below. If the electronic control unit determines a downshift based on a decrease in vehicle speed during CVT travel (high vehicle speed), for example, the electronic control device switches from CVT travel (high vehicle speed) to gear travel. In this case, the electronic control unit first outputs a command to operate the sleeve 56 so as to engage the disengaged meshing clutch D1, and switches to CVT traveling (medium vehicle speed). Next, the electronic control unit releases the CVT travel clutch C2 and performs a downshift by a CtoC shift that engages the forward clutch C1 (see FIG. 2). When the operation of the engine 12 is stopped after the vehicle 10 is stopped with the meshing clutch D1 engaged, the oil chamber 60b of the actuator 60 is not supplied with the oil pressure Pd1 larger than the predetermined oil pressure, but the engagement holding mechanism. 80, the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 is mechanically held. Therefore, when the engine is started in such a state, the vehicle 10 can be started immediately after the engine is started. A predetermined force is applied to the oil chamber 60b of the actuator 60 until the mechanical holding of the meshing clutch D1 is released due to the centrifugal force acting on the lock ball 84 of the engagement holding mechanism 80 as the vehicle starts. Since it is only necessary to supply a hydraulic pressure Pd1 larger than the hydraulic pressure, it is not necessary to increase the hydraulic pressure Pd1 rapidly, and the pump volume of the oil pump 41 can be reduced. Further, during traveling of the vehicle, the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 is released by the centrifugal force acting on the lock ball 84, so that the meshing clutch D1 is engaged. From the CVT travel (medium vehicle speed), the meshing clutch D1 is released due to a decrease in the hydraulic pressure Pd1, and is switched to the CVT travel (high vehicle speed).

  On the other hand, when the engagement clutch mechanism D1 is held in the engaged state by the engagement holding mechanism 80 when the vehicle is stopped, when the vehicle 10 is brought into the towed state, the lock ball 84 is increased as the drive wheel 14 rotates. As a result of the centrifugal force acting, the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 is released mechanically. Thus, when the engine pressure is not supplied to the oil chamber 60b of the actuator 60 when the hydraulic pressure Pd1 larger than the predetermined oil pressure is stopped, the meshing clutch D1 is released by the urging force of the return spring 60a of the actuator 60. The planetary gear unit 26p in which the rotation input from the drive wheels 14 is interposed in the power transmission path upstream of the meshing clutch D1 by disengaging the meshing clutch D1 in the towed state of the vehicle 10. Therefore, the rotation of the pinion gear of the planetary gear unit 26p due to the input from the drive wheel 14 side is avoided. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a decrease in durability of the planetary gear device 26p.

  As described above, according to the present embodiment, the engagement type force applied to the sleeve 56 during the operation of the engine 12 is increased from a predetermined value, whereby the meshing clutch D1 is brought into the engaged state. Even when the engagement force is smaller than a predetermined value due to the stop of the engine 12 or the like in the engaged state of the meshing clutch D1, if the rotational speed of the sleeve 56 is lower than the predetermined rotation (for example, the vehicle In the stop state), the engagement holding mechanism 80 mechanically holds the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1. Therefore, the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 can be maintained while the engine 12 is stopped. This contributes to quick vehicle start immediately after the engine 12 is operated. In addition, the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1 by the engagement holding mechanism 80 is canceled when the rotation speed of the sleeve 56 is higher than a predetermined rotation (for example, when the rotation of the drive wheel 14 is increased). Is done. If the engagement force is made smaller than a predetermined value due to the stop of the engine 12 during the release of the mechanical holding of the engagement state of the meshing clutch D1, the sleeve 56 is always applied. The meshing clutch D1 is released by the pressing force applied. Thus, the meshing clutch D1 can be released when the vehicle is towed.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was described in detail based on drawing, this invention is applied also in another aspect.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the meshing clutch D1 is provided in the power transmission device 16 of the vehicle 10 that includes the continuously variable transmission 24 and the gear mechanism 28 in parallel between the input shaft 22 and the output shaft 30. However, it is not limited to this. For example, the power transmission device 16 may include only a power transmission path via the gear mechanism 28 between the input shaft 22 and the output shaft 30. In short, the present invention can be applied as long as the meshing clutch D1 is interposed in the power transmission path between the engine 12 and the drive wheels 14. In that sense, the gear mechanism 28 provided alone may be another type of transmission, such as a planetary gear type multi-stage transmission, a continuously variable transmission, or the like. A power transmission device including at least a differential mechanism (a planetary gear unit 26p in the above-described embodiment) interposed in a power transmission path on the upstream side of the meshing clutch D1 is provided on the vehicle. If it is assumed at the time of towing, it is a configuration useful for applying the present invention. Further, the differential mechanism may be a differential gear device having a pair of bevel gears meshing with a pinion, for example.

  In the above-described embodiment, the engagement holding mechanism 80 is provided on the inner peripheral surface 56in of the sleeve 56 and the outer peripheral surface 52out of the clutch hub 52, or a plurality of engagement holding mechanisms 80 are provided at substantially equal intervals in the circumferential direction.

  In the above-described embodiment, the gear mechanism 28 is a transmission mechanism in which one gear stage is formed as a predetermined gear ratio (gear stage), but is not limited thereto. For example, the gear mechanism 28 may be a transmission mechanism in which a plurality of gear stages having different gear ratios γ are formed as a predetermined gear ratio (gear stage). That is, the gear mechanism 28 may be a stepped transmission that is shifted to two or more stages.

  In the above-described embodiment, the gear mechanism 28 is a transmission mechanism that forms a gear ratio EL that is lower than the lowest gear ratio γmax of the continuously variable transmission 24 in terms of the gear ratio γ. Not exclusively. For example, the gear mechanism 28 may be a transmission mechanism that forms a gear ratio EH that is higher than the low gear ratio EL and the highest gear ratio γmin of the continuously variable transmission 24. The present invention can be applied even to such a gear mechanism 28. The same applies to the case where the gear mechanism 28 is a transmission mechanism in which a plurality of gear stages are formed.

  Further, in the above-described embodiment, the belt-type continuously variable transmission 24 is exemplified as the continuously variable transmission mechanism, and the CVT traveling clutch C2 is disposed on the driving wheel 14 side than the continuously variable transmission 24 (that is, the secondary pulley 68 and the output shaft 30). However, it is not limited to this. For example, the continuously variable transmission mechanism may be a toroidal continuously variable transmission. The CVT travel clutch C2 may be provided on the engine 12 side (that is, between the primary pulley 64 and the input shaft 22) with respect to the continuously variable transmission 24.

  In the above-described embodiment, the traveling pattern of the power transmission device 16 is switched using a predetermined shift map. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the driving pattern of the power transmission device 16 is switched by calculating the driver's required driving amount (for example, the required torque) based on the vehicle speed and the accelerator opening, and setting a gear ratio that can satisfy the required torque. May be.

  In the above-described embodiment, the sleeve 56 is actuated by the hydraulic actuator 60, but is not limited thereto. For example, the sleeve 56 may be operated by an electric motor. Further, the synchromesh mechanism S1 is not necessarily required in the meshing clutch D1.

  The engine 12 exemplified as the driving force source in the above-described embodiment is an internal combustion engine such as a gasoline engine or a diesel engine. However, for example, another prime mover such as an electric motor may be used alone or in combination with the engine. it can. The forward clutch C1, the reverse brake B1, and the CVT travel clutch C2 are all hydraulic friction clutches. However, for example, electromagnetic friction clutches may be employed.

  The above description is only an embodiment, and the present invention can be implemented in variously modified and improved forms based on the knowledge of those skilled in the art.

12: Engine (power source)
14: Drive wheel 56: Sleeve 80: Engagement holding mechanism D1: Engagement type clutch

Claims (1)

A pressing force, which is interposed in a power transmission path between the driving force source and the driving wheel, presses the sleeve toward the release side is always applied to the sleeve, and the pressing force is applied during operation of the driving force source. An engagement force that moves the sleeve toward the engagement side against the sleeve can be applied to the sleeve, and is a meshing clutch that is engaged when the engagement force is greater than a predetermined value. ,
When the rotational speed of the sleeve is lower than a predetermined rotation after the meshing clutch is engaged, the engagement state of the meshing clutch is mechanically held, and the rotational speed of the sleeve is the predetermined rotation. An engagement clutch mechanism is provided that releases mechanical retention of the engagement state of the engagement clutch when the engagement is higher than the engagement clutch.

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