US20020104701A1 - Transmission and cooling arrangement for all terrain vehicle - Google Patents
Transmission and cooling arrangement for all terrain vehicle Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20020104701A1 US20020104701A1 US09/290,272 US29027299A US2002104701A1 US 20020104701 A1 US20020104701 A1 US 20020104701A1 US 29027299 A US29027299 A US 29027299A US 2002104701 A1 US2002104701 A1 US 2002104701A1
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- shaft
- drive
- terrain vehicle
- crankcase
- drive shaft
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Granted
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16H—GEARING
- F16H57/00—General details of gearing
- F16H57/04—Features relating to lubrication or cooling or heating
- F16H57/042—Guidance of lubricant
- F16H57/0421—Guidance of lubricant on or within the casing, e.g. shields or baffles for collecting lubricant, tubes, pipes, grooves, channels or the like
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K11/00—Arrangement in connection with cooling of propulsion units
- B60K11/08—Air inlets for cooling; Shutters or blinds therefor
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F02—COMBUSTION ENGINES; HOT-GAS OR COMBUSTION-PRODUCT ENGINE PLANTS
- F02B—INTERNAL-COMBUSTION PISTON ENGINES; COMBUSTION ENGINES IN GENERAL
- F02B61/00—Adaptations of engines for driving vehicles or for driving propellers; Combinations of engines with gearing
- F02B61/02—Adaptations of engines for driving vehicles or for driving propellers; Combinations of engines with gearing for driving cycles
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16H—GEARING
- F16H57/00—General details of gearing
- F16H57/04—Features relating to lubrication or cooling or heating
- F16H57/05—Features relating to lubrication or cooling or heating of chains
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60Y—INDEXING SCHEME RELATING TO ASPECTS CROSS-CUTTING VEHICLE TECHNOLOGY
- B60Y2200/00—Type of vehicle
- B60Y2200/20—Off-Road Vehicles
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16H—GEARING
- F16H57/00—General details of gearing
- F16H57/02—Gearboxes; Mounting gearing therein
- F16H2057/0203—Gearboxes; Mounting gearing therein the gearbox is associated or combined with a crank case of an engine
-
- F—MECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
- F16—ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
- F16H—GEARING
- F16H9/00—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members
- F16H9/02—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion
- F16H9/04—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion using belts, V-belts, or ropes
- F16H9/12—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion using belts, V-belts, or ropes engaging a pulley built-up out of relatively axially-adjustable parts in which the belt engages the opposite flanges of the pulley directly without interposed belt-supporting members
- F16H9/16—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion using belts, V-belts, or ropes engaging a pulley built-up out of relatively axially-adjustable parts in which the belt engages the opposite flanges of the pulley directly without interposed belt-supporting members using two pulleys, both built-up out of adjustable conical parts
- F16H9/18—Gearings for conveying rotary motion with variable gear ratio, or for reversing rotary motion, by endless flexible members without members having orbital motion using belts, V-belts, or ropes engaging a pulley built-up out of relatively axially-adjustable parts in which the belt engages the opposite flanges of the pulley directly without interposed belt-supporting members using two pulleys, both built-up out of adjustable conical parts only one flange of each pulley being adjustable
Definitions
- the present invention generally relates to a transmission and lubrication arrangement for all terrain vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to reducing all terrain vehicle engine size through improved lubrication and transmission units.
- All terrain vehicles are often operated in open terrain under difficult running conditions. While such vehicles often may have unrestricted size, it is desirable to decrease the size and weight of the vehicle. For instance, a smaller vehicle allows its operator to maneuver into locations previously unreachable by the larger vehicles. Moreover, decreasing the size and weight of the vehicle increases the power to weight ratio of the vehicle as well as increases the fuel economy of the vehicle.
- the selectively engageable two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive transmissions were positioned such that the shifting was done at the differential units, specifically at the front differential unit. Because the differential unit had to have an increased size for such shifting, the weight distribution of the vehicle was shifted toward the front wheels. Additionally, the frame had to be structured to support the increased weight.
- a lubrication system was also disposed within a portion of the crankcase.
- the system provided moving components within the crankcase with lubricant through passageways and the lubricant would return to an oil pan under the force of gravity.
- the oil pan may encase a portion of the drive shaft.
- the lubricant within the oil pan was capable of sloshing due to the rough terrain over which the all terrain vehicle traveled. The sloshing resulting in widely varying lubricant levels within the lubrication system. Sometimes the level would drop below the level of a lubricant pump pickup positioned within the oil pan.
- the rotation of the portion of the drive shaft positioned within the oil pan sometimes caused an entrainment of air within the oil supply. In both such instances, the lubricant pump would disadvantageously draw air through the system rather than lubricant.
- one feature of the present invention involves a shiftable transmission designed to centralize a mass associated with the transmission capable of selective two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive.
- Another feature of the present invention involves a crankcase design and lubrication system capable of reducing the lateral dimension of the oil pan such that lubricant sloshing does not degrade lubricant system performance.
- one aspect of the present invention involves an all terrain vehicle comprising an engine, a front wheel and a rear wheel.
- the engine has a generally laterally extending crankshaft with a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft.
- a v-belt transmission is coupled to the crankshaft and generally comprises a driven pulley, a drive pulley and a belt extending between the driven pulley and the drive pulley.
- a generally vertical wall divides the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber.
- the v-belt transmission is positioned at least partially within the auxiliary chamber while a lubricant pump is positioned within the crank chamber.
- the v-belt transmission is generally positioned vertically above, and is connected to, a drive shaft that extends longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase.
- an all terrain vehicle comprising a frame, an engine, at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel attached to the frame.
- the engine has a generally laterally extending crankshaft with a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft.
- a generally vertical wall divides the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber.
- a gear box is defined within a portion of the auxiliary chamber.
- a lubricant pump is positioned within the crank chamber while a drive shaft extends longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase.
- a shaft drive mechanism comprises an input shaft connected to the crankshaft and an output shaft extending from within the crank chamber into the gear box.
- a first drive shaft is coupled to the output shaft and a second drive shaft is selectively coupleable to the drive shaft.
- a shiftable coupling mechanism positioned between the second drive shaft and the output shaft and located at least partially within the crankcase. The coupling mechanism is capable of shifting to drive one of the front wheel or the rear wheel or to drive both the front wheel and the rear wheel.
- FIG. 1 is a side view of an all terrain vehicle arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and having some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of a portion of a crankcase and a transfer case of the all terrain vehicle of FIG. 1 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 3 is a partially sectioned top view of the crankcase and the transfer case of FIG. 2 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 4 is a partially sectioned top view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line 4 - 4 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 5 is a partially sectioned rear view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line 5 - 5 ;
- FIG. 6 is a partially sectioned rear view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line 6 - 6 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 7 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of FIG. 6 taken along the line 7 - 7 ;
- FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of another all terrain vehicle arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention.
- FIG. 9 is a partially sectioned view of the engine of the all terrain vehicle of FIG. 8 illustrating a two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive shifting mechanism having certain features, aspects and advantages in accordance with the present invention
- FIG. 10 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of the engine of FIG. 9;
- FIG. 11 is a partially sectioned view of the engine of FIG. 9 taken along the line 11 - 11 ;
- FIG. 12 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of the engine of FIG. 9 illustrating the shifting mechanism of FIG. 9.
- FIG. 1 an all terrain vehicle configured and arranged in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail.
- the illustrated vehicle indicated generally by the reference numeral 10 , provides an exemplary environment in which the present transmission and cooling arrangement will be described. While the vehicle 10 is a small stature, four wheel, all terrain vehicle, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present cooling system may find utility in a variety of other land-based vehicles as well.
- the vehicle 10 is generally comprised of a frame 12 , a body 14 , a pair of front wheels 16 and a pair of rear wheels 18 assembled in any suitable manner.
- the frame 12 is typically of a welded construction and generally defines, in part, a centrally located engine compartment.
- a foot peg 13 or other footboard structure may be attached to the frame in any suitable manner.
- the illustrated frame also carries several components that, together, form the body 14 .
- a seat 20 is carried atop a rear portion of the frame 12 .
- a fuel tank 22 is typically secured to the frame 12 forward of the seat 20 .
- a steering handle assembly 24 is connected to the front wheels 16 in any suitable manner and extends upward through the frame 12 to a location generally above a forward portion of the fuel tank 22 .
- gauges which may transmit information relating to operating conditions of the vehicle 10 , may be arranged proximate the steering handle assembly 24 .
- An internal combustion engine 30 is mounted to the frame 12 within the engine compartment in any suitable manner.
- the engine 30 comprises a one-cylinder, two-cycle construction. It should be appreciated that the engine 30 could also have two or more cylinders and could operate on any known operating principle, such as a four-cycle principle.
- the engine 30 generally comprises a cylinder block 32 .
- the cylinder block 32 preferably contains at least one cylinder bore (not shown) which may be inclined along an axis that is skewed relative to a vertically extending axis. Such a configuration allows for a reduced vertical dimension to the overall engine envelope and, therefore, creates a more compact engine arrangement and a reduced vehicle size and weight.
- a cylinder head assembly 34 may be attached to the cylinder block 32 covering an end of the cylinder bore.
- the cylinder head assembly 34 preferably features a recess which cooperates with the cylinder bore and a top surface of a piston (not shown) to define a combustion chamber within the cylinder.
- the cylinder head assembly 34 is attached to the illustrated cylinder block 32 through the use of a set of threaded fasteners 35 (see FIG. 3) but may be attached in any other suitable manner.
- the piston (not shown) reciprocates within the cylinder bore (not shown) and is connected to a crankshaft 36 via a connecting rod 38 (see FIG. 3).
- the connecting rod 38 is preferably connected to a throw 40 of the crankshaft 36 such that, as the piston (not shown) completes a full translating cycle, the crankshaft 36 may complete a full revolution.
- a counterweight portion 41 of the crankshaft 36 preferably extends from the opposing side of the crankshaft 36 relative to the throw 40 .
- the linkage between the piston (not shown) and the crankshaft 36 therefore, transposes the piston's reciprocal translating motion into a rotational output while the counterweight portion helps to balance the rotation of the crankshaft 36 .
- the crankshaft 36 is substantially restrained for rotational movement within a crankcase 42 .
- the crankcase 42 generally defines, among other chambers, a crank chamber 46 .
- a set of bearings 48 journal the crankshaft 36 for rotation within the crank chamber 46 .
- the bearings 48 are set within a substantially vertically extending wall 50 which, in part, defines a single cell of the crank chamber 46 that corresponds to the cylinder.
- a plurality of such walls may segregate the crank chamber 36 into several cells such that one cell would correspond to one cylinder.
- the wall 50 generally divides the illustrated crankcase into a crank chamber 46 and an auxiliary chamber 47 .
- the illustrated crankcase 42 is split into two portions 55 , 64 .
- a flywheel magneto 52 is connected to one end of the illustrated crankshaft 36 .
- the flywheel magneto rotates with the crankshaft 36 and may be used to sense the engine speed. Additionally, the flywheel magneto may function as an electrical generator in some embodiments.
- the flywheel is contained, in part, within a flywheel cover 53 that is attached to a portion of a crankcase cover 55 in any suitable manner. As the flywheel magneto 52 is relatively unimportant to the present engine and transmission arrangement, further description of the flywheel magneto 52 is deemed unnecessary.
- the rotational power of the illustrated crankshaft 36 is transferred to at least one drive line 54 (see FIG. 1) through a variable speed belt-drive transmission 56 .
- the drive line 54 is preferably a pair of drive shafts, which will be discussed in more detail below; however, as will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art, the drive line 54 may also comprise chain drives, geared drives or any other suitable drive arrangement.
- the driveline 54 extends substantially normal to the crankshaft 36 . Accordingly, a transfer gearing arrangement, discussed below, is provided within a gearbox formed within the illustrated auxiliary chamber 47 to transfer the power from a laterally extending crankshaft 36 to the longitudinally extending drive line 54 .
- a centrifugal clutch 58 connects the crankshaft 36 , which extends through the wall 50 , and a transmission input shaft 60 .
- the centrifugal clutch 58 automatically disengages the input shaft 60 from the crankshaft 36 when the engine speed falls below a predetermined speed and re-engages the two shafts 36 , 60 when the engine speed exceeds the predetermined speed.
- the clutch 58 includes a bearing supporting wall 59 that encases at least a portion of the moving components of the clutch 58 and housings a set of bearings 62 , which are described directly below.
- the walls 50 , 59 in the illustrated embodiment form, in part, a clutch chamber which is generally isolated from the crank chamber 46 and the auxiliary chamber 47 .
- the input shaft 60 extends through the wall 58 and is preferably journaled for rotation by the set of bearings 62 , including the bearings 62 that are carried in a wall 63 formed in the crankcase cover 64 . Additionally, a seal 61 is positioned around the input shaft 60 to seal the crankcase chamber 46 from a transmission case defined, in part, by a transmission cover 65 in the illustrated embodiment. As illustrated, the transmission case, or auxiliary case 47 , is preferably formed within a portion of the crankcase and enclosed by the transmission cover 65 .
- a drive v-belt pulley 66 is preferably connected to the input shaft 60 with splines such that the drive pulley 66 is coupled for rotation with the input shaft 60 .
- the drive pulley is designed to expand or contract due to increases and decreases in engine speed, thereby altering as the engine speed, or the input shaft speed, changes.
- a driven pulley 68 is coupled to the drive pulley 66 with a drive belt 70 .
- the driven pulley may also be configured to change in effective diameter. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, sheaves forming the driven pulley 68 are forced together by a biasing member, such as, for example, a spring 71 .
- the driven pulley's size can vary in relation to the changes in the drive pulley's size.
- the v-belt transmission 56 also may include a shroud 69 that is designed to encase at least a portion of the moving components forming the transmission 56 .
- the driven pulley 68 is coupled to an output shaft 72 .
- the output shaft 72 extends into the crank chamber 46 through the wall 50 .
- a set of bearings 73 desirably positioned within the opening in the wall and backed by a seal, journal the output shaft 72 for rotational motion within the crankcase 42 .
- the illustrated output shaft 72 is preferably engaged with a shiftable transmission 74 , mainly contained within the crank chamber, such that at least a high-speed range and a low-speed range can be selectively engaged.
- the shiftable transmission 74 also includes a parking position, a neutral position and a reverse position.
- a shift controller 76 is preferably positioned within easy reach of an operator.
- the shift controller 76 may be positioned in a protected region of the vehicle body to one side of the operator.
- the shift controller 76 may be positioned proximate the fuel tank 22 and the steering arrangement 24 .
- the shift controller 76 is connected to a shiftable gearing arrangement within the transfer case via a shift linkage 78 .
- a shifting drum 80 is rotated.
- a follower arm of a shifting fork arrangement 82 is moved laterally.
- the shifting drum 80 includes a helical groove in some embodiments.
- the follower arm is engaged with the helical groove such that as the shifting drum 80 rotates about its axis, the follower arm, and the balance of the shifting fork arrangement, translates along the path substantially parallel to the axis.
- the shifting fork arrangement then selectively engages or disengages a gearing arrangement carried on a secondary drive shaft 84 with the output shaft 72 to control whether the vehicle is in a high-speed or low-speed gearing arrangement.
- three gears 85 are carried on the illustrated output shaft 72 .
- the three gears 85 of the output shaft 72 are selectively coupled to a complementary set of gears on a second drive shaft 84 to control the gear ratio through which the engine power is transmitted to the drive line 54 .
- a gearing arrangement on the secondary drive shaft 84 transfers the rotational power to a third drive shaft 86 (see FIG. 2) carried within the transfer case in a location generally vertically below the secondary drive shaft 84 .
- a gear (not shown) positioned in a middle-position on the illustrated secondary drive shaft 84 , and splined thereto, is engaged with a similarly situated gear on the third drive shaft 86 such that the third drive shaft 86 is always driven by an movement of the secondary drive shaft 84 .
- the illustrated third drive shaft extends from within the crank chamber 46 into the auxiliary chamber 47 through an opening in the wall 50 . Notably, the opening carries a set of bearings and a seal.
- An input bevel gear 88 is splined to the end of the third drive shaft 86 extending into the auxiliary chamber 47 , an particularly, into a gear box 89 formed within the auxiliary chamber 47 , and engages with an output bevel gear 90 of an output shaft 92 .
- the output bevel gear as illustrated, is splined to the output shaft 92 that may drive the rear wheels, the front wheels, or both selectively or constantly.
- the output shaft 92 carries an engine output 93 comprising at least one universal joint 94 to allow the output shaft 92 to be coupled to the driveline 54 .
- the engine may also have a forward output shaft 91 as illustrated in FIG. 2, which is either a dedicated drive line or a selectively engageable drive line.
- the engine 30 also includes a transmission cooling system 95 .
- ambient air is circulated into the transmission case 65 through an air inlet duct 96 , circulated about to cool the belt drive, and exhausted through an air outlet duct 97 .
- the inlet duct 96 is positioned on a forward wall of the crankcase cover 64 while the outlet duct is positioned on a rearward wall of the transmission cover 65 . In this manner, air flow is ushered from front to rear through the auxiliary chamber 47 .
- the illustrated vehicle 10 also carries an engine cooling system, which is designed to cool at least a portion of a drive unit 102 of the vehicle.
- the cooling system generally comprises a coolant pump unit 104 and a radiator unit 106 that are connected via tubing and passageways extending through the drive unit 102 .
- a first transfer line 108 extends between the pump unit 104 and the radiator 106 and carries heated coolant from the pump unit 104 to the radiator 106 .
- the heated coolant then passes through the finned structure of the radiator 106 and is cooled by heat transfer that occurs within the radiator 106 .
- the coolant is then cycled to cooling passages of the engine and transmission (not shown) through a return transfer line 110 that is connected to the cylinder head assembly 34 in the illustrated embodiment.
- the coolant flows through the cylinder head assembly and the cylinder block 32 in any suitable manner and is returned to the coolant pump 104 through a pump supply line 112 .
- the transfer and supply lines 108 , 110 , 112 may be connected to the radiator 106 , the pump 104 and the engine 30 in any suitable manner. For instance, standard pipe clamps may be used to clamp the lines to male extensions from the respective cooling system components.
- the coolant pump 104 is desirably positioned between the crankshaft 36 and the driven shaft 72 of the transmission 56 .
- the coolant pump drive mechanism of the illustrated embodiment is positioned forward of and above the drive train extending between the v-belt transmission 56 and the drivelines 54 . In this position, the coolant pump drive mechanism does not interfere with the transmission and the pump 104 and its drive mechanism may be tucked within the crankcase 42 or transfer case without extending substantially outward from the side of the vehicle 10 .
- This configuration therefore, enables the lateral dimension of the drive unit 102 to be decreased over other constructions while allowing easy access for maintenance.
- the coolant pump 104 is positioned so that its outermost portion does not extend as far outward as an outermost portion of the flywheel cover 55 . In this position, the coolant pump 104 is also substantially protected from physical contact with brush and debris commonly encountered when operating an all terrain vehicle. Moreover, the coolant pump 104 is advantageously positioned to decrease its impedance into a foot or leg area of the operator or rider. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 1, a foot peg 96 is positioned slightly rearward of the coolant pump 104 along a longitudinal axis.
- the bent leg of an operator is likely to extend forward to at least the location of the coolant pump 104 and, if the coolant pump 104 protruded outward to a sufficient degree, the coolant pump 104 may interfere with a comfortable riding position for a rider on a compact vehicle 10 .
- the coolant pump 104 is preferably a gear pump and includes an inlet (not shown) and an outlet 116 .
- An impeller 118 is positioned within the pump 104 and is preferably interposed between the inlet 114 and the outlet 116 .
- the pump inlet 114 extends downward into the body of the pump 104 and the pump outlet 116 also extends downward away from the body of the pump 104 .
- the impeller 18 is rotated, coolant is forced from the inlet 114 to the outlet 116 and a coolant flow is established.
- the impeller 118 is positioned at one end of an impeller drive shaft 120 , as illustrated in FIG. 3.
- the impeller drive shaft 120 extends substantially laterally within the crankcase 42 and substantially parallel to the crankshaft 36 .
- a set of ball bearings 122 journal the impeller shaft 120 for rotation.
- the bearings 122 are positioned proximate the impeller 118 and the opposing end of the shaft 120 in one embodiment.
- the impeller shaft 120 extends through a bushing 124 and a seal 126 prior to extending through the bearing 122 .
- the bushing, bearing and seal are positioned within a pump housing 128 .
- the pump housing 128 is preferably designed to fit within a recess 130 of the cover 55 such that the lateral protrusion of the pump housing 128 may be decreased.
- the impeller shaft 120 is coupled to a transfer shaft 132 in any suitable manner. As illustrated, the transfer shaft 132 also drives an oil pump 134 , described in detail below. The transfer shaft 132 extends through a generally vertical wall 133 in the crankcase 42 .
- a gear 136 is splined to the transfer shaft 132 such that rotation of the gear 136 can be transferred to the transfer shaft 132 and, ultimately, to the oil pump 134 and the impeller shaft 120 .
- the transfer gear 136 engages with a second gear 138 that is coupled to a balancer shaft 140 .
- the transfer gear 136 is desirably of a larger diameter than the second gear 138 . In this manner, the rotational speed of the balancer shaft 140 can be reduced to a lower speed for the coolant pump 104 and the oil pump 134 .
- a set of ball bearings 142 journal the illustrated balancer shaft 140 for rotation within the crankcase 42 .
- the bearings 142 in the illustrated embodiment are positioned at one end of the shaft 140 and are interposed between the second gear 138 and a third gear 144 at the other end of the shaft 140 .
- the bearings 142 at the first end of the shaft 140 are carried within the wall 50 while the other bearings 142 are carried within the wall 133 .
- an asymmetrically increased cross-sectional portion, or balancer portion, 146 of the shaft that acts to counterbalance the motion of the piston and crankshaft 36 .
- the motion of the single cylinder can be countered by the rotation of the balancer shaft 140 .
- utilizing the balancer shaft 140 in the illustrated embodiment allows the crankshaft 36 to have a smaller effective diameter.
- utilizing the balancer shaft 140 to power the coolant pump 104 leads to a synergistic reduction in engine size.
- the balancer portion 146 is sized and configured to pass through the increased diameter, or webbing 41 , of the illustrated crankshaft 36 .
- the third gear 144 engages with, and is constantly driven by a driving gear 150 , which is splined to the crankshaft 36 in the illustrated embodiment.
- the third gear 144 and the driving gear 150 are preferably of substantially the same size and configuration to allow the balancer shaft 140 to rotate at substantially the same speed as the crankshaft 36 .
- the crankshaft 36 is rotatably driven by the pistons of the engine 30 in a known manner.
- the crankshaft 36 powers the balancer shaft 140 through a gear train.
- the rotational speed of the crankshaft 36 and the balancer shaft 140 are approximately the same.
- the balancer shaft powers the transfer shaft 132 through a second gear train.
- the second gear train steps down the rotational speed from the balancer shaft 140 to the transfer shaft 132 .
- the transfer shaft in turn, rotatably powers the oil pump 134 and the coolant pump 104 .
- the lubricant pump 134 is driver from the balancer shaft 140 through a transfer shaft 132 and gearing arrangement described in detail above.
- the lubricant pump 134 is preferably a gear pump.
- the lubricant pump 134 features a pump inlet passage 160 and a pump outlet passage 162 and is positioned along the generally vertical dividing wall 50 .
- a gear is driven within a pump housing 164 such that lubricant is carried from the inlet 160 to the outlet 162 . This movement of lubricant establishes a generally upward flow within the lubrication system.
- lubricant is drawn from within a lubricant pan 166 upward to the lubricant pump 134 for dispersal to the balance of the lubricating system.
- the lubricant is drawn from within a lower portion of the crankcase 42 through a screened pickup 168 .
- the pick-up 168 generally comprises a wire mesh 170 that substantially encases an inlet 172 to remove foreign particles from the lubricant prior to circulation within the system.
- the illustrated inlet 172 is positioned at approximately the same vertical height as a lower surface of the oil pan 166 and that the strainer 170 is positioned within a recess into which an oil drain plug is positioned. In this manner, the inlet is positioned in the lower position portion of the oil pan 166 to assist in maintaining the lubricant level L above the inlet 172 under most operating conditions.
- the inlet 172 extends substantially vertically to a substantially horizontal extension passage 174 .
- the illustrated horizontal extension passage 174 extends horizontally towards a center of the engine 30 and meets with a substantially vertical extension passage 176 formed within or adjacent to the wall 50 . Together the horizontal passage 174 and the vertical passage 176 form, at least in part, the illustrated inlet conduit 178 .
- the inlet conduit is connected to the inlet passage 160 of the lubricant pump 134 and supplies the lubricant to the pump 134 .
- a delivery conduit 180 extends away from the pump 134 and supplies a plurality of lubricant galleries through which the lubricant is carried to moving components as will be described below.
- the lubricant passes through a first delivery passage 182 , which extends generally upward and slightly rearward within the crankcase 42 in the illustrated embodiment.
- the first passage 182 joins a second delivery passage 184 that extends generally laterally to an oil filter 186 in the illustrated embodiment.
- the delivery passage 182 extends, at least in part, within or substantially adjacent to the wall.
- the oil filter 186 of the illustrated embodiment is desirably positioned within a recess in an upper edge 188 of the cover 55 . In this manner, the lateral protrusion of the oil filter may be reduced. Additionally, while positioned for protection, the oil filter is easily accessed for routine maintenance. Moreover, the lubricant travel path length may be reduced through such placement.
- the second passage 184 preferably mates with a filter inlet 190 such that the lubricant may pass into the filter 186 uninhibited.
- the lubricant flows through the filter 186 and exits the filter through an outlet 192 .
- the outlet 192 is generally centrally disposed within the oil filter 186 and returns the lubricant to the crankcase 42 in substantially the same longitudinal and lateral position as the filter 186 received the lubricant.
- the inlet 192 is generally vertically higher than the outlet 192 to aid in lubricant flow.
- the filtered lubricant then passes through a distribution conduit 194 .
- the distribution conduit 194 comprises a substantially downwardly extending distribution passage 196 that is connected to a substantially horizontal distribution passage 198 as shown in FIG. 5.
- this passage 198 communicates with a passage 200 that extends into the cylinder block 32 and a secondary passage 202 , which extends through a lubrication block 204 , that lubricates the main bearings of crankshaft and other moving components.
- the lubricant then returns to the sump or oil pan under the forces of gravity.
- the oil pan 166 is desirably positioned within cover 55 and cover 64 such that the output shaft 86 is separately contained within the crankcase cover 64 on a opposite side of a wall from the oil pan.
- the vertically extending wall 50 substantially divides the crankcase into at least two portions: one of which contains the crank chamber and the other of which contains the drive shaft 86 .
- the lateral dimension of the oil pan 166 may be reduced.
- the side-to-side movement of the lubricant contained within the oil pan 166 is substantially limited. This limited movement results in the intake 172 being positioned below the level L of lubricant within the oil pan 166 under substantially all operating conditions.
- the third drive shaft 86 extends through a wall 205 of the crankcase into a gear chamber 206 preferably formed within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase 42 .
- the bevel gear 88 attached to the third drive shaft 86 meshes with the bevel gear 90 of the drive shaft 92 .
- the drive shaft 92 is desirably journaled for rotation about an axis 95 by a pair of bearings 93 .
- the drive shaft 92 carries a universal joint 94 to attach the drive shaft 92 to a driveline 54 .
- a front wheel drive shaft 93 also extends through the crankcase cover 64 into the gear chamber 206 .
- the drive shaft 93 is journaled by a set of bearings 208 .
- a set of seals 210 isolate the gear chamber 206 and the crankcase for foreign matter.
- a compression spring 212 ensures that an engaging sleeve 214 that is splined to the drive shaft 93 remains coupled to the driven bevel gear 90 and allows a degree of relative movement to aid in coupling when desired.
- all four wheels are capable of being dedicated to being driven.
- shifting mechanisms including the one described in detail below, may be used to selectively engage either the front or rear drive.
- the gear chamber 206 is desirably distinct from the crank chamber of crankcase 42 such that the lubrication sump may be isolated from the drive shaft 93 .
- FIG. 8 an all terrain vehicle having a transmission shifting arrangement in accordance with certain aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will now be described in detail.
- the illustrated vehicle 10 is a schematic illustration of the vehicle 10 presented above. Accordingly, like elements will be given like reference numerals unless otherwise indicated. Moreover, the above-description will apply unless otherwise indicated.
- the engine 30 is preferably an internal combustion engine operating on any known operating principle and having any number of cylinders.
- An air fuel charge is delivered to the engine through an induction system for ignition. Specifically, a charge of air is supplied to a carburetor 300 . The air charge picks up fuel within the carburetor and passes through an intake pipe 302 into a combustion chamber within the cylinder in any known manner.
- a spark plug ignites the air fuel charge in the combustion chamber.
- the ignition of the charge drives a piston 304 downward in a power stroke.
- the exhaust gases are passed through any suitable exhaust system 304 to the atmosphere.
- the translation of the piston within the cylinder is transferred to the crankshaft 36 through a connecting rod 38 .
- the crankshaft desirably has a substantially laterally extending axis of rotation 310 .
- the engine 30 selectively powers the front wheels 16 , the rear wheels 18 or both through a selectively engageable transmission.
- the transmission engages either the front drive shaft 93 or the rear drive shaft 92 or both.
- the front drive shaft 93 powers the front wheels 16 through a front transfer shaft 312 that is connected to a front differential 314 .
- the rear drive shaft powers the rear wheels 18 through a rear transfer shaft 316 that is connected to a rear differential 318 .
- the differentials and transfer shafts may be coupled in any suitable manner. While the present transmission does not utilize shiftable differentials, the connections between the differentials and the transfer shafts are considered well known.
- the illustrated drive train includes a pair of driven shafts 92 , 93 that are selectively coupled to the output of the engine 30 .
- a shifting mechanism 400 is advantageously positioned within a void 402 in the crankcase 42 or transmission case 404 .
- a portion of one end of the drive shaft 93 is externally splined.
- the splines 406 of the shaft 93 are desirably the same size and shape as splines 408 on a stub shaft 410 that is connected to, and extends away from, the bevel gear 90 .
- a slidable collar 412 is configured with internal splines (not shown) such that the collar may slide relative to both the drive shaft 93 and the stub shaft 410 .
- the drive shaft 93 is disengaged from the transmission and, therefore, power is not provided to the front wheels 16 .
- the collar may be translated rearward to couple the shaft 93 with the stub shaft 410 .
- the stub shaft is designed to be constantly driven by the engine output, coupling the drive shaft 93 to the stub shaft 410 allows the front wheels 16 to be driven by the engine 30 .
- FIG. 10 illustrated the collar in a disengaged position while FIG. 9 illustrates an engaged position in phantom lines. It should be noted that the collar could be positioned solely on the stub shaft as well as the drive shaft, as illustrated, when disengaged.
- the slidable collar 412 has an external slot 414 about its circumference defined by a pair of ridges.
- a lever 416 carries a pin or similar structure that can ride within the slot 414 without rotating therewith.
- the lever 416 and pin combination result in an actuator 418 that can control axial movement of the collar 412 .
- a bearing surface may be axially manipulated by a linear actuator to accomplish the desired movement of the collar 412 .
- the illustrated actuator 418 is desirably controlled by a wire 420 .
- the wire is a Bowden wire but need not be. It is anticipated that other control mechanisms, not requiring a push-pull connection can be constructed.
- the illustrated collar 412 is biased into one position by a spring 422 such that the wire 420 need only be controlled in one direction and such that the collar will return to a first position once the tension in the wire is released.
- a lockable lever such as those known to those of ordinary skill in the art, may be used to hold the collar in either position as desired.
- the drive shaft 93 is selectively coupled to a constantly driven bevel gear 430 .
- the bevel gear 430 is engaged with the drive bevel gear 88 and is journaled for rotation by the bearing 208 .
- the shaft 93 extends through, but is not splined to, the bevel gear 430 .
- a portion of the end of the illustrated shaft 93 has splines 406 that are desirably sized and configured to mate with splines on the inside of the illustrated collar 412 .
- the collar 412 also comprises a set of substantially forward facing engaging teeth 432 that are preferably sized and configured to mesh with a set of substantially rearward facing engaging teeth 434 formed on a face of the illustrated bevel gear inside of the bevel teeth 436 .
- the teeth 432 , 434 may be brought into engagement to lock the drive shaft 93 to the constantly driven bevel gear 430 . In this manner, power from the engine may be selectively transferred to two of the four wheels.
- the shifting is easily accomplished while the vehicle 10 is not moving.
- the collar and the teeth may be reversed in some embodiments such that the collar couples with the opposite side of the bevel gear relative to the illustrated embodiment.
- actuating mechanism 418 As will be recognized, the same actuating mechanism may be used with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12. Accordingly, further description of the actuating mechanism 418 is deemed unnecessary. Moreover, any other suitable actuating mechanism may be used.
- the present shifting mechanism allows selectively two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive operation of the vehicle 10 without requiring a large shiftable differential at either the front or rear wheels of the vehicle.
- the construction reduces the overall weight of the vehicle as well as results in a centralization of more of the mass of the vehicle.
- the addition of a selectable drive mechanism does not necessitate an increase in the size of the vehicle, the crankcase or the transmission case.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- General Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Arrangement Of Transmissions (AREA)
- General Details Of Gearings (AREA)
Abstract
An all terrain vehicle has a lubrication system that draws from an oil pan and lubricates the main bearings and the piston. A drive shaft for the vehicle is positioned outside of the oil pan such that the oil pan's lateral dimension may be decreased. Additionally, a lubricant pump pickup is located within a recess in the bottom of the oil pan such that the pick-up is at about the same vertical height as the lower surface of the crankcase. The vehicle is also shiftable from two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive. The shifting mechanism is located within the crankcase or transmission case. A locking collar selectively engages or disengages two of the four wheels from the output.
Description
- 1. Field of the Invention
- The present invention generally relates to a transmission and lubrication arrangement for all terrain vehicles. More particularly, the present invention relates to reducing all terrain vehicle engine size through improved lubrication and transmission units.
- 2. Related Art
- All terrain vehicles are often operated in open terrain under difficult running conditions. While such vehicles often may have unrestricted size, it is desirable to decrease the size and weight of the vehicle. For instance, a smaller vehicle allows its operator to maneuver into locations previously unreachable by the larger vehicles. Moreover, decreasing the size and weight of the vehicle increases the power to weight ratio of the vehicle as well as increases the fuel economy of the vehicle.
- In the past, in some all terrain vehicles, the selectively engageable two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive transmissions were positioned such that the shifting was done at the differential units, specifically at the front differential unit. Because the differential unit had to have an increased size for such shifting, the weight distribution of the vehicle was shifted toward the front wheels. Additionally, the frame had to be structured to support the increased weight.
- In such vehicles, a lubrication system was also disposed within a portion of the crankcase. The system provided moving components within the crankcase with lubricant through passageways and the lubricant would return to an oil pan under the force of gravity. In such systems, the oil pan may encase a portion of the drive shaft. Because of the increased width of the oil pan required to accommodate the drive shaft, the lubricant within the oil pan was capable of sloshing due to the rough terrain over which the all terrain vehicle traveled. The sloshing resulting in widely varying lubricant levels within the lubrication system. Sometimes the level would drop below the level of a lubricant pump pickup positioned within the oil pan. Moreover, the rotation of the portion of the drive shaft positioned within the oil pan sometimes caused an entrainment of air within the oil supply. In both such instances, the lubricant pump would disadvantageously draw air through the system rather than lubricant.
- Accordingly, one feature of the present invention involves a shiftable transmission designed to centralize a mass associated with the transmission capable of selective two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive. Another feature of the present invention involves a crankcase design and lubrication system capable of reducing the lateral dimension of the oil pan such that lubricant sloshing does not degrade lubricant system performance.
- Therefore, one aspect of the present invention involves an all terrain vehicle comprising an engine, a front wheel and a rear wheel. The engine has a generally laterally extending crankshaft with a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft. A v-belt transmission is coupled to the crankshaft and generally comprises a driven pulley, a drive pulley and a belt extending between the driven pulley and the drive pulley. A generally vertical wall divides the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber. The v-belt transmission is positioned at least partially within the auxiliary chamber while a lubricant pump is positioned within the crank chamber. The v-belt transmission is generally positioned vertically above, and is connected to, a drive shaft that extends longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase.
- Another aspect of the present invention involves an all terrain vehicle comprising a frame, an engine, at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel attached to the frame. The engine has a generally laterally extending crankshaft with a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft. A generally vertical wall divides the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber. A gear box is defined within a portion of the auxiliary chamber. A lubricant pump is positioned within the crank chamber while a drive shaft extends longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase. A shaft drive mechanism comprises an input shaft connected to the crankshaft and an output shaft extending from within the crank chamber into the gear box. A first drive shaft is coupled to the output shaft and a second drive shaft is selectively coupleable to the drive shaft. A shiftable coupling mechanism positioned between the second drive shaft and the output shaft and located at least partially within the crankcase. The coupling mechanism is capable of shifting to drive one of the front wheel or the rear wheel or to drive both the front wheel and the rear wheel.
- These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will now be described with reference to the drawings of a preferred embodiment, which embodiment is intended to illustrate and not to limit the invention, and in which drawings:
- FIG. 1 is a side view of an all terrain vehicle arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention and having some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 2 is an enlarged side view of a portion of a crankcase and a transfer case of the all terrain vehicle of FIG. 1 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 3 is a partially sectioned top view of the crankcase and the transfer case of FIG. 2 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 4 is a partially sectioned top view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line4-4 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 5 is a partially sectioned rear view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line5-5;
- FIG. 6 is a partially sectioned rear view of the engine of FIG. 2 taken along the line6-6 with some internal components illustrated with hidden lines;
- FIG. 7 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of FIG. 6 taken along the line7-7;
- FIG. 8 is a schematic illustration of another all terrain vehicle arranged and configured in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention;
- FIG. 9 is a partially sectioned view of the engine of the all terrain vehicle of FIG. 8 illustrating a two-wheel drive to four-wheel drive shifting mechanism having certain features, aspects and advantages in accordance with the present invention;
- FIG. 10 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of the engine of FIG. 9;
- FIG. 11 is a partially sectioned view of the engine of FIG. 9 taken along the line11-11; and,
- FIG. 12 is a partially sectioned view of the crankcase and the transfer case of the engine of FIG. 9 illustrating the shifting mechanism of FIG. 9.
- With reference initially to FIG. 1, an all terrain vehicle configured and arranged in accordance with certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will be described in detail. The illustrated vehicle, indicated generally by the
reference numeral 10, provides an exemplary environment in which the present transmission and cooling arrangement will be described. While thevehicle 10 is a small stature, four wheel, all terrain vehicle, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that the present cooling system may find utility in a variety of other land-based vehicles as well. - With continued reference to FIG. 1, the
vehicle 10 is generally comprised of aframe 12, abody 14, a pair offront wheels 16 and a pair ofrear wheels 18 assembled in any suitable manner. Theframe 12 is typically of a welded construction and generally defines, in part, a centrally located engine compartment. A foot peg 13 or other footboard structure may be attached to the frame in any suitable manner. - The illustrated frame also carries several components that, together, form the
body 14. For instance, aseat 20 is carried atop a rear portion of theframe 12. Afuel tank 22 is typically secured to theframe 12 forward of theseat 20. Moreover, asteering handle assembly 24 is connected to thefront wheels 16 in any suitable manner and extends upward through theframe 12 to a location generally above a forward portion of thefuel tank 22. As will be recognized, gauges, which may transmit information relating to operating conditions of thevehicle 10, may be arranged proximate thesteering handle assembly 24. As each of these components and the methods related to their manufacture and assembly are considered to be well known to those of ordinary skill in the art, further description is deemed unnecessary. - An
internal combustion engine 30 is mounted to theframe 12 within the engine compartment in any suitable manner. In the illustrated embodiment, theengine 30 comprises a one-cylinder, two-cycle construction. It should be appreciated that theengine 30 could also have two or more cylinders and could operate on any known operating principle, such as a four-cycle principle. - The
engine 30 generally comprises acylinder block 32. Thecylinder block 32 preferably contains at least one cylinder bore (not shown) which may be inclined along an axis that is skewed relative to a vertically extending axis. Such a configuration allows for a reduced vertical dimension to the overall engine envelope and, therefore, creates a more compact engine arrangement and a reduced vehicle size and weight. Acylinder head assembly 34 may be attached to thecylinder block 32 covering an end of the cylinder bore. Thecylinder head assembly 34 preferably features a recess which cooperates with the cylinder bore and a top surface of a piston (not shown) to define a combustion chamber within the cylinder. Thecylinder head assembly 34 is attached to the illustratedcylinder block 32 through the use of a set of threaded fasteners 35 (see FIG. 3) but may be attached in any other suitable manner. - With reference to FIG. 2, the piston (not shown) reciprocates within the cylinder bore (not shown) and is connected to a
crankshaft 36 via a connecting rod 38 (see FIG. 3). With reference to FIG. 3, the connectingrod 38 is preferably connected to athrow 40 of thecrankshaft 36 such that, as the piston (not shown) completes a full translating cycle, thecrankshaft 36 may complete a full revolution. Acounterweight portion 41 of thecrankshaft 36 preferably extends from the opposing side of thecrankshaft 36 relative to thethrow 40. The linkage between the piston (not shown) and thecrankshaft 36, therefore, transposes the piston's reciprocal translating motion into a rotational output while the counterweight portion helps to balance the rotation of thecrankshaft 36. - The
crankshaft 36, as illustrated in FIG. 3, is substantially restrained for rotational movement within acrankcase 42. As such, thecrankcase 42 generally defines, among other chambers, acrank chamber 46. In the illustrated embodiment, a set ofbearings 48 journal thecrankshaft 36 for rotation within thecrank chamber 46. Thebearings 48 are set within a substantially vertically extendingwall 50 which, in part, defines a single cell of thecrank chamber 46 that corresponds to the cylinder. In multiple cylinder embodiments, a plurality of such walls may segregate thecrank chamber 36 into several cells such that one cell would correspond to one cylinder. Notably, thewall 50 generally divides the illustrated crankcase into acrank chamber 46 and anauxiliary chamber 47. Moreover, the illustratedcrankcase 42 is split into twoportions - A
flywheel magneto 52 is connected to one end of the illustratedcrankshaft 36. As is known, the flywheel magneto rotates with thecrankshaft 36 and may be used to sense the engine speed. Additionally, the flywheel magneto may function as an electrical generator in some embodiments. As illustrated in FIG. 3, the flywheel is contained, in part, within aflywheel cover 53 that is attached to a portion of acrankcase cover 55 in any suitable manner. As theflywheel magneto 52 is relatively unimportant to the present engine and transmission arrangement, further description of theflywheel magneto 52 is deemed unnecessary. - With continued reference to FIG. 3, the rotational power of the illustrated
crankshaft 36 is transferred to at least one drive line 54 (see FIG. 1) through a variable speed belt-drive transmission 56. In the illustrated embodiment, thedrive line 54 is preferably a pair of drive shafts, which will be discussed in more detail below; however, as will be recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art, thedrive line 54 may also comprise chain drives, geared drives or any other suitable drive arrangement. As illustrated in FIG. 3, thedriveline 54 extends substantially normal to thecrankshaft 36. Accordingly, a transfer gearing arrangement, discussed below, is provided within a gearbox formed within the illustratedauxiliary chamber 47 to transfer the power from a laterally extendingcrankshaft 36 to the longitudinally extendingdrive line 54. - In the illustrated embodiment, a centrifugal clutch58 connects the
crankshaft 36, which extends through thewall 50, and atransmission input shaft 60. The centrifugal clutch 58, as is well known, automatically disengages theinput shaft 60 from thecrankshaft 36 when the engine speed falls below a predetermined speed and re-engages the twoshafts bearing supporting wall 59 that encases at least a portion of the moving components of the clutch 58 and housings a set ofbearings 62, which are described directly below. Thewalls crank chamber 46 and theauxiliary chamber 47. - The
input shaft 60, as illustrated, extends through thewall 58 and is preferably journaled for rotation by the set ofbearings 62, including thebearings 62 that are carried in a wall 63 formed in thecrankcase cover 64. Additionally, a seal 61 is positioned around theinput shaft 60 to seal thecrankcase chamber 46 from a transmission case defined, in part, by atransmission cover 65 in the illustrated embodiment. As illustrated, the transmission case, orauxiliary case 47, is preferably formed within a portion of the crankcase and enclosed by thetransmission cover 65. - A drive v-
belt pulley 66 is preferably connected to theinput shaft 60 with splines such that thedrive pulley 66 is coupled for rotation with theinput shaft 60. As is known, the drive pulley is designed to expand or contract due to increases and decreases in engine speed, thereby altering as the engine speed, or the input shaft speed, changes. A drivenpulley 68 is coupled to the drivepulley 66 with adrive belt 70. The driven pulley may also be configured to change in effective diameter. For instance, in the illustrated embodiment, sheaves forming the drivenpulley 68 are forced together by a biasing member, such as, for example, aspring 71. In this manner, the driven pulley's size can vary in relation to the changes in the drive pulley's size. With reference to FIG. 6, the v-belt transmission 56 also may include ashroud 69 that is designed to encase at least a portion of the moving components forming thetransmission 56. - With reference now to FIG. 2, the driven
pulley 68 is coupled to anoutput shaft 72. Theoutput shaft 72 extends into thecrank chamber 46 through thewall 50. A set ofbearings 73, desirably positioned within the opening in the wall and backed by a seal, journal theoutput shaft 72 for rotational motion within thecrankcase 42. - The illustrated
output shaft 72 is preferably engaged with ashiftable transmission 74, mainly contained within the crank chamber, such that at least a high-speed range and a low-speed range can be selectively engaged. In the illustrated embodiment, theshiftable transmission 74 also includes a parking position, a neutral position and a reverse position. - With now reference to FIG. 1, a
shift controller 76 is preferably positioned within easy reach of an operator. In one embodiment, theshift controller 76 may be positioned in a protected region of the vehicle body to one side of the operator. In the illustrated embodiment, theshift controller 76 may be positioned proximate thefuel tank 22 and thesteering arrangement 24. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
shift controller 76 is connected to a shiftable gearing arrangement within the transfer case via ashift linkage 78. With initial reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, as theshift linkage 78 is pivoted, a shiftingdrum 80 is rotated. As the shiftingdrum 80 is rotated, a follower arm of a shifting fork arrangement 82 is moved laterally. Specifically, the shiftingdrum 80 includes a helical groove in some embodiments. The follower arm is engaged with the helical groove such that as the shiftingdrum 80 rotates about its axis, the follower arm, and the balance of the shifting fork arrangement, translates along the path substantially parallel to the axis. The shifting fork arrangement then selectively engages or disengages a gearing arrangement carried on asecondary drive shaft 84 with theoutput shaft 72 to control whether the vehicle is in a high-speed or low-speed gearing arrangement. - With reference now to FIG. 3, three
gears 85 are carried on the illustratedoutput shaft 72. A set of bearings 83 positioned within a wall 67 of thecrankcase cover 64 journal theoutput shaft 72 for rotational motion about a substantiallylateral axis 77. The three gears 85 of theoutput shaft 72 are selectively coupled to a complementary set of gears on asecond drive shaft 84 to control the gear ratio through which the engine power is transmitted to thedrive line 54. - In the illustrated embodiment, a gearing arrangement on the
secondary drive shaft 84 transfers the rotational power to a third drive shaft 86 (see FIG. 2) carried within the transfer case in a location generally vertically below thesecondary drive shaft 84. A gear (not shown) positioned in a middle-position on the illustratedsecondary drive shaft 84, and splined thereto, is engaged with a similarly situated gear on thethird drive shaft 86 such that thethird drive shaft 86 is always driven by an movement of thesecondary drive shaft 84. The illustrated third drive shaft extends from within thecrank chamber 46 into theauxiliary chamber 47 through an opening in thewall 50. Notably, the opening carries a set of bearings and a seal. - An
input bevel gear 88 is splined to the end of thethird drive shaft 86 extending into theauxiliary chamber 47, an particularly, into a gear box 89 formed within theauxiliary chamber 47, and engages with anoutput bevel gear 90 of anoutput shaft 92. The output bevel gear, as illustrated, is splined to theoutput shaft 92 that may drive the rear wheels, the front wheels, or both selectively or constantly. As also illustrated, theoutput shaft 92 carries anengine output 93 comprising at least oneuniversal joint 94 to allow theoutput shaft 92 to be coupled to thedriveline 54. The engine may also have a forward output shaft 91 as illustrated in FIG. 2, which is either a dedicated drive line or a selectively engageable drive line. - With reference to FIG. 3, the
engine 30 also includes atransmission cooling system 95. As illustrated, ambient air is circulated into thetransmission case 65 through anair inlet duct 96, circulated about to cool the belt drive, and exhausted through anair outlet duct 97. In the illustrated embodiment, theinlet duct 96 is positioned on a forward wall of thecrankcase cover 64 while the outlet duct is positioned on a rearward wall of thetransmission cover 65. In this manner, air flow is ushered from front to rear through theauxiliary chamber 47. - With reference now to FIGS. 1 and 4, the illustrated
vehicle 10 also carries an engine cooling system, which is designed to cool at least a portion of adrive unit 102 of the vehicle. The cooling system generally comprises acoolant pump unit 104 and a radiator unit 106 that are connected via tubing and passageways extending through thedrive unit 102. With reference to FIG. 1, in the illustrated embodiment, afirst transfer line 108 extends between thepump unit 104 and the radiator 106 and carries heated coolant from thepump unit 104 to the radiator 106. The heated coolant then passes through the finned structure of the radiator 106 and is cooled by heat transfer that occurs within the radiator 106. The coolant is then cycled to cooling passages of the engine and transmission (not shown) through areturn transfer line 110 that is connected to thecylinder head assembly 34 in the illustrated embodiment. The coolant flows through the cylinder head assembly and thecylinder block 32 in any suitable manner and is returned to thecoolant pump 104 through a pump supply line 112. The transfer andsupply lines pump 104 and theengine 30 in any suitable manner. For instance, standard pipe clamps may be used to clamp the lines to male extensions from the respective cooling system components. - With reference now to FIGS. 2 through 4, a pump drive mechanism will be described in detail. As illustrated best in FIG. 2, the
coolant pump 104 is desirably positioned between thecrankshaft 36 and the drivenshaft 72 of thetransmission 56. Moreover, the coolant pump drive mechanism of the illustrated embodiment is positioned forward of and above the drive train extending between the v-belt transmission 56 and thedrivelines 54. In this position, the coolant pump drive mechanism does not interfere with the transmission and thepump 104 and its drive mechanism may be tucked within thecrankcase 42 or transfer case without extending substantially outward from the side of thevehicle 10. This configuration, therefore, enables the lateral dimension of thedrive unit 102 to be decreased over other constructions while allowing easy access for maintenance. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 4, thecoolant pump 104 is positioned so that its outermost portion does not extend as far outward as an outermost portion of theflywheel cover 55. In this position, thecoolant pump 104 is also substantially protected from physical contact with brush and debris commonly encountered when operating an all terrain vehicle. Moreover, thecoolant pump 104 is advantageously positioned to decrease its impedance into a foot or leg area of the operator or rider. For instance, as illustrated in FIG. 1, afoot peg 96 is positioned slightly rearward of thecoolant pump 104 along a longitudinal axis. Accordingly, the bent leg of an operator is likely to extend forward to at least the location of thecoolant pump 104 and, if thecoolant pump 104 protruded outward to a sufficient degree, thecoolant pump 104 may interfere with a comfortable riding position for a rider on acompact vehicle 10. - With reference to FIG. 4, the
coolant pump 104 is preferably a gear pump and includes an inlet (not shown) and anoutlet 116. Animpeller 118 is positioned within thepump 104 and is preferably interposed between the inlet 114 and theoutlet 116. As illustrated, the pump inlet 114 extends downward into the body of thepump 104 and thepump outlet 116 also extends downward away from the body of thepump 104. As is known, as theimpeller 18 is rotated, coolant is forced from the inlet 114 to theoutlet 116 and a coolant flow is established. - The
impeller 118 is positioned at one end of animpeller drive shaft 120, as illustrated in FIG. 3. With reference to FIG. 4, theimpeller drive shaft 120 extends substantially laterally within thecrankcase 42 and substantially parallel to thecrankshaft 36. As illustrated, a set ofball bearings 122 journal theimpeller shaft 120 for rotation. Thebearings 122 are positioned proximate theimpeller 118 and the opposing end of theshaft 120 in one embodiment. In the illustrated embodiment, theimpeller shaft 120 extends through abushing 124 and aseal 126 prior to extending through thebearing 122. The bushing, bearing and seal are positioned within apump housing 128. Thepump housing 128 is preferably designed to fit within arecess 130 of thecover 55 such that the lateral protrusion of thepump housing 128 may be decreased. - The
impeller shaft 120 is coupled to atransfer shaft 132 in any suitable manner. As illustrated, thetransfer shaft 132 also drives anoil pump 134, described in detail below. Thetransfer shaft 132 extends through a generallyvertical wall 133 in thecrankcase 42. - A
gear 136 is splined to thetransfer shaft 132 such that rotation of thegear 136 can be transferred to thetransfer shaft 132 and, ultimately, to theoil pump 134 and theimpeller shaft 120. - The
transfer gear 136 engages with asecond gear 138 that is coupled to abalancer shaft 140. As illustrated, thetransfer gear 136 is desirably of a larger diameter than thesecond gear 138. In this manner, the rotational speed of thebalancer shaft 140 can be reduced to a lower speed for thecoolant pump 104 and theoil pump 134. - A set of
ball bearings 142 journal theillustrated balancer shaft 140 for rotation within thecrankcase 42. Thebearings 142 in the illustrated embodiment are positioned at one end of theshaft 140 and are interposed between thesecond gear 138 and athird gear 144 at the other end of theshaft 140. Thebearings 142 at the first end of theshaft 140 are carried within thewall 50 while theother bearings 142 are carried within thewall 133. - Interposed between the
third gear 144 and the first end of theshaft 140 is an asymmetrically increased cross-sectional portion, or balancer portion, 146 of the shaft that acts to counterbalance the motion of the piston andcrankshaft 36. In this manner, the motion of the single cylinder can be countered by the rotation of thebalancer shaft 140. While it is possible to increase the opposing side of thecrankshaft 36 to counter the motion of the piston, utilizing thebalancer shaft 140 in the illustrated embodiment allows thecrankshaft 36 to have a smaller effective diameter. Moreover, utilizing thebalancer shaft 140 to power thecoolant pump 104 leads to a synergistic reduction in engine size. Note that the balancer portion 146 is sized and configured to pass through the increased diameter, orwebbing 41, of the illustratedcrankshaft 36. - The
third gear 144 engages with, and is constantly driven by adriving gear 150, which is splined to thecrankshaft 36 in the illustrated embodiment. Thethird gear 144 and thedriving gear 150 are preferably of substantially the same size and configuration to allow thebalancer shaft 140 to rotate at substantially the same speed as thecrankshaft 36. - Accordingly, the
crankshaft 36 is rotatably driven by the pistons of theengine 30 in a known manner. Thecrankshaft 36 powers thebalancer shaft 140 through a gear train. Preferably, the rotational speed of thecrankshaft 36 and thebalancer shaft 140 are approximately the same. The balancer shaft, in turn, powers thetransfer shaft 132 through a second gear train. Preferably, the second gear train steps down the rotational speed from thebalancer shaft 140 to thetransfer shaft 132. The transfer shaft, in turn, rotatably powers theoil pump 134 and thecoolant pump 104. - With primary reference now to FIGS. 4 and 7, a lubrication system for the
engine 30 will be described in detail. As mentioned above, thelubricant pump 134 is driver from thebalancer shaft 140 through atransfer shaft 132 and gearing arrangement described in detail above. Thelubricant pump 134 is preferably a gear pump. With reference to FIG. 5, thelubricant pump 134 features apump inlet passage 160 and apump outlet passage 162 and is positioned along the generally vertical dividingwall 50. As thetransfer shaft 132 rotates, a gear is driven within apump housing 164 such that lubricant is carried from theinlet 160 to theoutlet 162. This movement of lubricant establishes a generally upward flow within the lubrication system. - With reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, lubricant is drawn from within a
lubricant pan 166 upward to thelubricant pump 134 for dispersal to the balance of the lubricating system. The lubricant is drawn from within a lower portion of thecrankcase 42 through a screenedpickup 168. In the illustrated embodiment, the pick-up 168 generally comprises awire mesh 170 that substantially encases aninlet 172 to remove foreign particles from the lubricant prior to circulation within the system. Note that the illustratedinlet 172 is positioned at approximately the same vertical height as a lower surface of theoil pan 166 and that thestrainer 170 is positioned within a recess into which an oil drain plug is positioned. In this manner, the inlet is positioned in the lower position portion of theoil pan 166 to assist in maintaining the lubricant level L above theinlet 172 under most operating conditions. - In the illustrated embodiment, the
inlet 172 extends substantially vertically to a substantiallyhorizontal extension passage 174. The illustratedhorizontal extension passage 174 extends horizontally towards a center of theengine 30 and meets with a substantiallyvertical extension passage 176 formed within or adjacent to thewall 50. Together thehorizontal passage 174 and thevertical passage 176 form, at least in part, the illustratedinlet conduit 178. The inlet conduit is connected to theinlet passage 160 of thelubricant pump 134 and supplies the lubricant to thepump 134. - A
delivery conduit 180 extends away from thepump 134 and supplies a plurality of lubricant galleries through which the lubricant is carried to moving components as will be described below. With reference to FIG. 5, the lubricant passes through afirst delivery passage 182, which extends generally upward and slightly rearward within thecrankcase 42 in the illustrated embodiment. Thefirst passage 182 joins asecond delivery passage 184 that extends generally laterally to anoil filter 186 in the illustrated embodiment. Again, thedelivery passage 182 extends, at least in part, within or substantially adjacent to the wall. - The
oil filter 186 of the illustrated embodiment is desirably positioned within a recess in anupper edge 188 of thecover 55. In this manner, the lateral protrusion of the oil filter may be reduced. Additionally, while positioned for protection, the oil filter is easily accessed for routine maintenance. Moreover, the lubricant travel path length may be reduced through such placement. Thesecond passage 184 preferably mates with afilter inlet 190 such that the lubricant may pass into thefilter 186 uninhibited. - The lubricant flows through the
filter 186 and exits the filter through anoutlet 192. As illustrated, theoutlet 192 is generally centrally disposed within theoil filter 186 and returns the lubricant to thecrankcase 42 in substantially the same longitudinal and lateral position as thefilter 186 received the lubricant. Moreover, with reference to FIG. 5, theinlet 192 is generally vertically higher than theoutlet 192 to aid in lubricant flow. - The filtered lubricant then passes through a
distribution conduit 194. In the illustrated embodiment, thedistribution conduit 194 comprises a substantially downwardly extendingdistribution passage 196 that is connected to a substantiallyhorizontal distribution passage 198 as shown in FIG. 5. With reference to FIG. 4, thispassage 198 communicates with apassage 200 that extends into thecylinder block 32 and asecondary passage 202, which extends through alubrication block 204, that lubricates the main bearings of crankshaft and other moving components. The lubricant then returns to the sump or oil pan under the forces of gravity. - With reference now to FIG. 5, the
oil pan 166 is desirably positioned withincover 55 and cover 64 such that theoutput shaft 86 is separately contained within thecrankcase cover 64 on a opposite side of a wall from the oil pan. Thus, the vertically extendingwall 50 substantially divides the crankcase into at least two portions: one of which contains the crank chamber and the other of which contains thedrive shaft 86. In this manner, the lateral dimension of theoil pan 166 may be reduced. By reducing the lateral dimension of theoil pan 166, the side-to-side movement of the lubricant contained within theoil pan 166 is substantially limited. This limited movement results in theintake 172 being positioned below the level L of lubricant within theoil pan 166 under substantially all operating conditions. As is known, when an all terrain vehicle is operating on rough terrain, lubricant can slosh within a standard sump to such a degree that air is ingested into the lubrication system. As a result of the illustrated construction, the likelihood of such ingestion is substantially reduced. - With reference now to FIG. 7, the positioning and interconnections of the gear train, discussed above, that couples the v-belt transmission and shifting gear transmission to the
drive shafts third drive shaft 86 extends through awall 205 of the crankcase into agear chamber 206 preferably formed within the auxiliary chamber of thecrankcase 42. Thebevel gear 88 attached to thethird drive shaft 86 meshes with thebevel gear 90 of thedrive shaft 92. Thedrive shaft 92 is desirably journaled for rotation about anaxis 95 by a pair ofbearings 93. Moreover, as described above, thedrive shaft 92 carries a universal joint 94 to attach thedrive shaft 92 to adriveline 54. - A front
wheel drive shaft 93 also extends through thecrankcase cover 64 into thegear chamber 206. As illustrated in FIG. 7, thedrive shaft 93 is journaled by a set ofbearings 208. A set ofseals 210 isolate thegear chamber 206 and the crankcase for foreign matter. Acompression spring 212 ensures that anengaging sleeve 214 that is splined to thedrive shaft 93 remains coupled to the drivenbevel gear 90 and allows a degree of relative movement to aid in coupling when desired. Thus, in the illustrated embodiment, all four wheels are capable of being dedicated to being driven. Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will readily recognize that a variety of shifting mechanisms, including the one described in detail below, may be used to selectively engage either the front or rear drive. As illustrated, however, thegear chamber 206 is desirably distinct from the crank chamber ofcrankcase 42 such that the lubrication sump may be isolated from thedrive shaft 93. - With reference now to FIG. 8, an all terrain vehicle having a transmission shifting arrangement in accordance with certain aspects, features and advantages of the present invention will now be described in detail. The illustrated
vehicle 10 is a schematic illustration of thevehicle 10 presented above. Accordingly, like elements will be given like reference numerals unless otherwise indicated. Moreover, the above-description will apply unless otherwise indicated. - The
engine 30 is preferably an internal combustion engine operating on any known operating principle and having any number of cylinders. An air fuel charge is delivered to the engine through an induction system for ignition. Specifically, a charge of air is supplied to acarburetor 300. The air charge picks up fuel within the carburetor and passes through anintake pipe 302 into a combustion chamber within the cylinder in any known manner. - A spark plug (not shown) ignites the air fuel charge in the combustion chamber. The ignition of the charge drives a
piston 304 downward in a power stroke. After combustion, the exhaust gases are passed through anysuitable exhaust system 304 to the atmosphere. The translation of the piston within the cylinder is transferred to thecrankshaft 36 through a connectingrod 38. The crankshaft, as illustrated, desirably has a substantially laterally extending axis ofrotation 310. - As described in detail above, the
engine 30 selectively powers thefront wheels 16, therear wheels 18 or both through a selectively engageable transmission. The transmission engages either thefront drive shaft 93 or therear drive shaft 92 or both. Thefront drive shaft 93 powers thefront wheels 16 through afront transfer shaft 312 that is connected to afront differential 314. The rear drive shaft powers therear wheels 18 through arear transfer shaft 316 that is connected to arear differential 318. Desirably, the differentials and transfer shafts may be coupled in any suitable manner. While the present transmission does not utilize shiftable differentials, the connections between the differentials and the transfer shafts are considered well known. - With reference now to FIG. 9, a first embodiment of a shifting apparatus for a
shiftable transmission 398 having features, aspects and advantages in accordance with the present invention will be described. The illustrated drive train includes a pair of drivenshafts engine 30. In the illustrated embodiment, a shifting mechanism 400 is advantageously positioned within a void 402 in thecrankcase 42 ortransmission case 404. As illustrated, a portion of one end of thedrive shaft 93 is externally splined. Thesplines 406 of theshaft 93 are desirably the same size and shape assplines 408 on astub shaft 410 that is connected to, and extends away from, thebevel gear 90. - As illustrated in FIG. 9, a
slidable collar 412 is configured with internal splines (not shown) such that the collar may slide relative to both thedrive shaft 93 and thestub shaft 410. As the collar is positioned solely onshaft 93, thedrive shaft 93 is disengaged from the transmission and, therefore, power is not provided to thefront wheels 16. The collar may be translated rearward to couple theshaft 93 with thestub shaft 410. As the stub shaft is designed to be constantly driven by the engine output, coupling thedrive shaft 93 to thestub shaft 410 allows thefront wheels 16 to be driven by theengine 30. FIG. 10 illustrated the collar in a disengaged position while FIG. 9 illustrates an engaged position in phantom lines. It should be noted that the collar could be positioned solely on the stub shaft as well as the drive shaft, as illustrated, when disengaged. - The
slidable collar 412 has anexternal slot 414 about its circumference defined by a pair of ridges. Alever 416 carries a pin or similar structure that can ride within theslot 414 without rotating therewith. Thelever 416 and pin combination result in anactuator 418 that can control axial movement of thecollar 412. It is envisioned that a plethora of other actuator's can also be designed to accomplish a similar result. For instance, a bearing surface may be axially manipulated by a linear actuator to accomplish the desired movement of thecollar 412. - With reference to FIG. 8, the illustrated
actuator 418 is desirably controlled by awire 420. In one embodiment, the wire is a Bowden wire but need not be. It is anticipated that other control mechanisms, not requiring a push-pull connection can be constructed. With reference to FIG. 9, the illustratedcollar 412 is biased into one position by a spring 422 such that thewire 420 need only be controlled in one direction and such that the collar will return to a first position once the tension in the wire is released. Accordingly, in the illustrated embodiment, a lockable lever, such as those known to those of ordinary skill in the art, may be used to hold the collar in either position as desired. - With reference now to FIG. 12, an additional embodiment of the shifting mechanism400 is illustrated. In this mechanism, the
drive shaft 93 is selectively coupled to a constantly drivenbevel gear 430. Thebevel gear 430 is engaged with thedrive bevel gear 88 and is journaled for rotation by thebearing 208. Theshaft 93 extends through, but is not splined to, thebevel gear 430. - A portion of the end of the illustrated
shaft 93 hassplines 406 that are desirably sized and configured to mate with splines on the inside of the illustratedcollar 412. Thecollar 412 also comprises a set of substantially forward facing engagingteeth 432 that are preferably sized and configured to mesh with a set of substantially rearward facing engagingteeth 434 formed on a face of the illustrated bevel gear inside of thebevel teeth 436. As such, theteeth drive shaft 93 to the constantly drivenbevel gear 430. In this manner, power from the engine may be selectively transferred to two of the four wheels. Notably, due to the use of the centrifugal clutching arrangement, the shifting is easily accomplished while thevehicle 10 is not moving. Additionally, the collar and the teeth may be reversed in some embodiments such that the collar couples with the opposite side of the bevel gear relative to the illustrated embodiment. - As will be recognized, the same actuating mechanism may be used with the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 12. Accordingly, further description of the
actuating mechanism 418 is deemed unnecessary. Moreover, any other suitable actuating mechanism may be used. - Advantageously, the present shifting mechanism allows selectively two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive operation of the
vehicle 10 without requiring a large shiftable differential at either the front or rear wheels of the vehicle. The construction reduces the overall weight of the vehicle as well as results in a centralization of more of the mass of the vehicle. Moreover, as the shiftable components are arranged within a void of either the crankcase or the transmission case of the vehicle, the addition of a selectable drive mechanism does not necessitate an increase in the size of the vehicle, the crankcase or the transmission case. - Although the present invention has been described in terms of a certain embodiment, other embodiments apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art also are within the scope of this invention. Thus, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention. Moreover, not all of the features, aspects and advantages are necessarily required to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the scope of the present invention is intended to be defined only by the claims that follow.
Claims (21)
1. An all terrain vehicle comprising an engine, a front wheel and a rear wheel, the engine having a generally laterally extending crankshaft, a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft, a v-belt transmission coupled to the crankshaft, the v-belt transmission comprising a driven pulley, a drive pulley and a belt extending between the driven pulley and the drive pulley, a generally vertical wall dividing the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber, the v-belt transmission positioned at least partially within the auxiliary chamber, a lubricant pump positioned within the crank chamber, the v-belt transmission positioned vertically above and connected to a drive shaft that extends longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase.
2. The all terrain vehicle of claim 1 further comprising a shaft drive mechanism, the shaft drive mechanism comprising an input shaft connected to the driven pulley of the v-belt transmission and extending from the auxiliary chamber into the crank chamber through the wall and an output shaft that extends from the crank chamber into the auxiliary chamber.
3. The all terrain vehicle of claim 2 further comprising a sleeve extending over a portion of the drive shaft and configured such that the sleeve may translate relative to the drive shaft but cannot rotate substantially relative to the drive shaft, and a stub shaft in driving engagement with the output shaft, the sleeve configured to translate over a portion of the stub shaft but not to rotate relative to the stub shaft when positioned on the stub shaft, wherein the drive shaft is selectively coupleable to the stub shaft by sliding the sleeve over the portion of the stub shaft such that the sleeve joins the stub shaft and the drive shaft for rotation together.
4. The all terrain vehicle of claim 2 further comprising a transmission cover that encloses the v-belt transmission within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase, wherein the auxiliary chamber has a cooling air inlet and a cooling air outlet.
5. The all terrain vehicle of claim 4 , wherein the cooling air inlet is positioned within a crankcase wall defining a portion of the auxiliary chamber, the cooling air outlet is positioned within the transmission cover and the cooling air inlet is positioned generally forward of the cooling air outlet.
6. The all terrain vehicle of claim 1 further comprising a lubricant supply line formed within the wall and connects the lubricant pump to a lubricant filter.
7. The all terrain vehicle of claim 1 further comprising a connecting rod extending between the crankshaft and a piston of the engine, wherein a cover member defining the crankcase is divided along a generally longitudinal plane into a first portion and a second portion.
8. The all terrain vehicle of claim 7 , wherein the longitudinal plane extends through the connection rod.
9. The all terrain vehicle of claim 7 further comprising a lubricant supply line and a lubricant filter, the lubricant supply line extending between the lubricant pump and the lubricant filter, wherein the wall extends through the first portion of the crankcase, the lubricant filter is attached to the lubricant system through a sidewall of the first portion of the crankcase and the second portion of the crankcase has a recess positioned in an upper surface proximate the lubricant filter.
10. The all terrain vehicle of claim 9 , wherein the lubrication filter is positioned longitudinally at a location between the drive pulley and the driven pulley of the v-belt transmission.
11. The all terrain vehicle of claim 9 , wherein the lubricant supply line is extends generally upward within the wall at a longitudinal position generally between the drive pulley and the driven pulley.
12. The all terrain vehicle of claim 1 further comprising a clutch chamber defined proximate the drive pulley and segregated from the auxiliary chamber and the crank chamber, wherein the clutch chamber houses a centrifugal clutch interposed between the crankshaft and the v-belt transmission.
13. The all terrain vehicle of claim 11 , wherein the drive shaft extends through the crankcase within the auxiliary chamber at a location vertically below a lowermost portion of the clutch chamber.
14. An all terrain vehicle comprising a frame, an engine, at least one front wheel and at least one rear wheel attached to the frame, the engine having a generally laterally extending crankshaft, a crankcase enclosing the crankshaft, a generally vertical wall dividing the crankcase into an auxiliary chamber and a crank chamber, a gear box defined within a portion of the auxiliary chamber, a lubricant pump positioned within the crank chamber, a drive shaft extending longitudinally within the auxiliary chamber of the crankcase, a shaft drive mechanism comprising an input shaft connected to the crankshaft and an output shaft extending from within the crank chamber into the gear box, a first drive shaft coupled to the output shaft and a second drive shaft selectively coupleable to the drive shaft, a shiftable coupling mechanism positioned between the second drive shaft and the output shaft and located at least partially within the crankcase and capable of shifting to drive one of the front wheel or the rear wheel or to drive both the front wheel and the rear wheel.
15. The all terrain vehicle of claim 14 , wherein the shiftable coupling mechanism is positioned within the gear box.
16. The all terrain vehicle of claim 14 further comprising a v-belt transmission coupled to the crankshaft and joined to the input shaft of the shaft drive mechanism, the v-belt transmission comprising a driven pulley, a drive pulley and a belt extending between the driven pulley and the drive pulley, the v-belt transmission positioned at least partially within the auxiliary chamber and the shiftable coupling mechanism located longitudinally between the crankshaft and the input shaft of the shaft drive mechanism.
17. The all terrain vehicle of claim 14 , wherein the output shaft of the shaft drive mechanism carries an output bevel gear positioned within the gear box, the first drive shaft carries a first input bevel gear positioned within the gear box, the first input bevel gear in driving engagement with the output bevel gear and in selective driving engagement with the second drive shaft.
18. The all terrain vehicle of claim 17 , wherein the first drive shaft is capable of transmitting rotational power to the rear wheel.
19. The all terrain vehicle of claim 14 , wherein the output shaft of the shaft drive mechanism carries an output bevel gear positioned within the gear box, the first drive shaft carries a first input bevel gear positioned within the gear box, the second drive shaft carries a second input bevel gear positioned within the gear box, the first input bevel and the second input bevel gear in constant driving engagement with the output bevel gear, the first input bevel gear in constant driving engagement with the first drive shaft and the second input bevel gear in selective driving engagement with the second drive shaft.
20. The all terrain vehicle of claim 19 , wherein the second drive shaft is capable of transmitting power to the front wheel.
21. The all terrain vehicle of claim 19 , wherein the second bevel gear has a face, a first plurality of engaging teeth are formed on the face, a second plurality of complementary engaging teeth are formed on a sleeve, the sleeve is arranged to allow relative sliding movement between the sleeve and the second drive shaft but not to allow relative rotational movement between the sleeve and the second drive shaft, the sleeve is selectively translated to register the first plurality of teeth and the second plurality of teeth such that the second drive shaft is engaged for rotation with the second bevel gear.
Applications Claiming Priority (9)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
JP10-101183 | 1998-04-13 | ||
JPHEI10-101183 | 1998-04-13 | ||
JP10118398A JPH11294132A (en) | 1998-04-13 | 1998-04-13 | Lubricating device of engine for vehicle |
JPHEI10-118370 | 1998-04-28 | ||
JP11837098A JPH11311126A (en) | 1998-04-28 | 1998-04-28 | Power unit for off-road traveling vehicle |
JP10-118370 | 1998-04-28 | ||
JP10213343A JP2000043605A (en) | 1998-07-28 | 1998-07-28 | Two-wheel/four-wheel drive changing device for vehicle |
JP10-213343 | 1998-07-28 | ||
JPHEI10-213343 | 1998-07-28 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20020104701A1 true US20020104701A1 (en) | 2002-08-08 |
US6454040B1 US6454040B1 (en) | 2002-09-24 |
Family
ID=27309408
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US09/290,272 Expired - Fee Related US6454040B1 (en) | 1998-04-13 | 1999-04-13 | Transmission and cooling arrangement for all terrain vehicle |
Country Status (1)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (1) | US6454040B1 (en) |
Cited By (5)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030136219A1 (en) * | 2002-01-21 | 2003-07-24 | Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. | Breather structure for transfer |
EP1950389A3 (en) * | 2007-01-26 | 2014-01-22 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Motorcycle |
US20140202271A1 (en) * | 2011-04-21 | 2014-07-24 | Dewertokin Gmbh | An electromotive linear drive |
US20160290190A1 (en) * | 2015-03-31 | 2016-10-06 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Engine |
US10393004B2 (en) * | 2018-01-03 | 2019-08-27 | Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Water pump fitting structure of vehicle engine |
Families Citing this family (27)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US6622806B1 (en) * | 1999-04-27 | 2003-09-23 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Air inlet for ATV |
US6896087B2 (en) * | 2000-09-01 | 2005-05-24 | Brp-Rotax Gmbh & Co. Kg | Component arrangement for an all terrain vehicle |
JP3442742B2 (en) * | 2001-01-23 | 2003-09-02 | 川崎重工業株式会社 | Cooling device for rough terrain vehicle |
JP2002225772A (en) * | 2001-02-02 | 2002-08-14 | Kawasaki Heavy Ind Ltd | Saddle riding type four-wheeled off-road traveling vehicle |
JP3572262B2 (en) * | 2001-02-22 | 2004-09-29 | 川崎重工業株式会社 | Riding four-wheel vehicle with a V-belt continuously variable transmission |
JP3879421B2 (en) * | 2001-03-22 | 2007-02-14 | スズキ株式会社 | Saddle riding four-wheeled vehicle |
JP2003056679A (en) * | 2001-08-10 | 2003-02-26 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Drive belt cooling structure for small vehicle |
JP4010127B2 (en) * | 2001-09-14 | 2007-11-21 | スズキ株式会社 | Transmission mechanism cooling structure |
US6702059B2 (en) * | 2001-10-05 | 2004-03-09 | France Reducteurs S.A. | Transmission device and machine provided with such a transmission device |
JP3731738B2 (en) * | 2001-11-07 | 2006-01-05 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Hydraulic automatic transmission |
JP2004156658A (en) * | 2002-11-05 | 2004-06-03 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Engine |
JP2004156657A (en) * | 2002-11-05 | 2004-06-03 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Driving belt cooling structure of engine |
US7506712B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2009-03-24 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Off road vehicle with air intake system |
US7438147B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2008-10-21 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Transmission for off-road vehicle |
US7287619B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2007-10-30 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Air intake system for off-road vehicle |
US7510199B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2009-03-31 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Off-road vehicle with wheel suspension |
US7650959B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2010-01-26 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Frame arrangement for off-road vehicle |
US7147075B2 (en) * | 2003-04-02 | 2006-12-12 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Engine arrangement for off-road vehicle |
US7367417B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2008-05-06 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Floor arrangement for off-road vehicle |
US7357211B2 (en) | 2003-04-02 | 2008-04-15 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Steering system for off-road vehicle |
US6938676B2 (en) * | 2003-12-18 | 2005-09-06 | Kwang Yang Motor Co., Ltd. | Cooling structure for a continuous variation transmission system of an all-terrain vehicle |
JP4121975B2 (en) * | 2004-03-31 | 2008-07-23 | ジヤトコ株式会社 | Belt type continuously variable transmission |
JP2006168468A (en) * | 2004-12-14 | 2006-06-29 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Power unit for motor cycle and motor cycle |
US7438153B2 (en) * | 2005-05-12 | 2008-10-21 | Artic Cat Inc. | All-terrain vehicle engine configuration |
JP4767603B2 (en) * | 2005-07-04 | 2011-09-07 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Power unit and straddle-type vehicle equipped with the power unit |
JP4676294B2 (en) * | 2005-09-30 | 2011-04-27 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Power transmission structure |
JP4545131B2 (en) * | 2006-09-29 | 2010-09-15 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Power transmission device |
Family Cites Families (37)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US2145545A (en) | 1936-06-01 | 1939-01-31 | Sterling Electric Motors Inc | Air-cooled variable-speed device |
US2315317A (en) | 1939-08-17 | 1943-03-30 | Renold & Coventry Chain Co | Casing for chain belt and like transmissions |
US2707402A (en) | 1952-03-14 | 1955-05-03 | Chayes Dental Instr Company | Air cooled pulley |
US2850852A (en) | 1957-05-31 | 1958-09-09 | Fred C Hofberger | Air cooled pulley for abrasive belt grinders |
US3229424A (en) | 1963-05-31 | 1966-01-18 | Joseph J Fielder | Concentric motor and cooling pulley assembly for abraders and the like |
US3733918A (en) | 1972-03-09 | 1973-05-22 | Textron Inc | Centrifugal clutch |
US3943785A (en) | 1974-04-26 | 1976-03-16 | Carlisle Corporation | Air cooled belt clutch |
US4339964A (en) | 1979-11-21 | 1982-07-20 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Internal combustion engine with combined transmission case and crankshaft case, and intermediate shaft |
US4497285A (en) | 1981-09-09 | 1985-02-05 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Cooling structure for internal combustion engine |
US4531928A (en) | 1981-12-23 | 1985-07-30 | Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Belt transmission having air cooling function |
JPS5977924A (en) | 1982-10-28 | 1984-05-04 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Cooler for v-belt change gear of autobicycle |
JPS59227523A (en) * | 1983-06-07 | 1984-12-20 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | All-axle-driven type traveling vehicle |
US4483686A (en) | 1983-08-19 | 1984-11-20 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | V-Belt automatic transmission |
JPS6069251A (en) | 1983-09-26 | 1985-04-19 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Crankcase for multi-cylinder engine |
JPS6099728A (en) * | 1983-11-04 | 1985-06-03 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Back device for small car |
JPH0656193B2 (en) | 1984-07-13 | 1994-07-27 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Internal combustion engine with auxiliary transmission for vehicles |
JPH0625595B2 (en) * | 1984-07-13 | 1994-04-06 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Shift control device for vehicle transmission |
JPS6189187A (en) | 1984-10-05 | 1986-05-07 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Belt type variable speed gear of car for uneven ground travelling |
JPH0825498B2 (en) * | 1985-01-28 | 1996-03-13 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Saddle-type four-wheeled vehicle for running on rough terrain |
JPH0645353B2 (en) * | 1985-03-04 | 1994-06-15 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Body structure of riding type vehicle |
US4697665A (en) | 1985-06-18 | 1987-10-06 | Polaris Industries, Inc. | Recreational vehicle with air cooled transmission |
JPS6218378A (en) * | 1985-07-17 | 1987-01-27 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Rear fender device in saddling type car |
JPS6255412A (en) * | 1985-09-04 | 1987-03-11 | Suzuki Motor Co Ltd | Cooling device of belt-type transmission gear |
US4650029A (en) | 1985-12-19 | 1987-03-17 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Off-the-road four-wheel drive vehicle |
JPS63219493A (en) | 1987-03-06 | 1988-09-13 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Small-sized snowmobile |
IT1228264B (en) * | 1987-07-10 | 1991-06-05 | Bcs Spa | VEHICLE FOR GARDENING AND AGRICULTURAL WORK |
JP2691564B2 (en) | 1988-06-09 | 1997-12-17 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Self-propelled three-wheeled golf cart |
US5172786A (en) | 1990-03-02 | 1992-12-22 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | V belt type automatic transmission system |
JP3263814B2 (en) | 1991-01-16 | 2002-03-11 | ヤマハ発動機株式会社 | Snowmobile |
JP3379720B2 (en) * | 1993-09-22 | 2003-02-24 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Windproof device for motorcycles |
JPH07195949A (en) * | 1993-12-29 | 1995-08-01 | Honda Motor Co Ltd | On-saddle type power unit for vehicle |
JP3366115B2 (en) * | 1994-07-12 | 2003-01-14 | 本田技研工業株式会社 | Rough terrain vehicle |
JPH10291420A (en) * | 1997-04-22 | 1998-11-04 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Power transmitting device for engine |
JPH10297294A (en) * | 1997-04-28 | 1998-11-10 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Power transmission device of engine |
US6269899B1 (en) * | 1997-04-28 | 2001-08-07 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Transmission for offroad vehicle |
US6170597B1 (en) * | 1997-04-30 | 2001-01-09 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Transmission for offroad vehicle |
JPH11294161A (en) * | 1998-04-13 | 1999-10-26 | Yamaha Motor Co Ltd | Water-cooled engine cooling device of vehicle |
-
1999
- 1999-04-13 US US09/290,272 patent/US6454040B1/en not_active Expired - Fee Related
Cited By (7)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20030136219A1 (en) * | 2002-01-21 | 2003-07-24 | Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. | Breather structure for transfer |
US7114412B2 (en) * | 2002-01-21 | 2006-10-03 | Nissan Motor Co., Ltd. | Breather structure for transfer |
EP1950389A3 (en) * | 2007-01-26 | 2014-01-22 | Yamaha Hatsudoki Kabushiki Kaisha | Motorcycle |
US20140202271A1 (en) * | 2011-04-21 | 2014-07-24 | Dewertokin Gmbh | An electromotive linear drive |
US9404562B2 (en) * | 2011-04-21 | 2016-08-02 | Dewertokin Gmbh | Electromotive linear drive |
US20160290190A1 (en) * | 2015-03-31 | 2016-10-06 | Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Engine |
US10393004B2 (en) * | 2018-01-03 | 2019-08-27 | Kawasaki Jukogyo Kabushiki Kaisha | Water pump fitting structure of vehicle engine |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
US6454040B1 (en) | 2002-09-24 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US6454040B1 (en) | Transmission and cooling arrangement for all terrain vehicle | |
US6269899B1 (en) | Transmission for offroad vehicle | |
US6076624A (en) | Drive layout for offroad vehicle | |
US6523627B2 (en) | Cooling arrangement for all terrain vehicle | |
US6155371A (en) | Drive layout for offroad vehicle | |
EP0578267B1 (en) | Motor vehicle comprising a transverse engine | |
JP3971082B2 (en) | Lubricating device for internal combustion engine | |
US6296073B1 (en) | All terrain vehicle with improved motor arrangement | |
US5067933A (en) | Unitized power system and vehicles employing same | |
EP0335246B1 (en) | Engine unit for motor vehicle | |
US6357545B1 (en) | Power unit for vehicle | |
US6170597B1 (en) | Transmission for offroad vehicle | |
US6612391B2 (en) | Engine unit for small-sized vehicle | |
US5154144A (en) | Camshaft drive arrangement for engine | |
JPS6145297Y2 (en) | ||
JP2001073737A (en) | Oil tank for internal combustion engine | |
US5063897A (en) | Accessory drive arrangement for engine | |
CA2438507C (en) | Component arrangement for snowmobile | |
US6557516B2 (en) | Engine unit for a vehicle | |
CN102003263B (en) | Cooling device of a power unit | |
US7631718B2 (en) | Saddle-type vehicle and engine | |
JP4007887B2 (en) | Lubricating device for internal combustion engine | |
CN1646821B (en) | Clutch mechanism lubricating structure of engine | |
JP4596758B2 (en) | Lubricating device for internal combustion engine | |
EP1394371A2 (en) | Oil pump arrangement in an oil sump |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
AS | Assignment |
Owner name: YAMAHA HATSUDOKI KABUSHIKI KAISHA, JAPAN Free format text: ASSIGNMENT OF ASSIGNORS INTEREST;ASSIGNOR:FUKUDA, KAZUTAKA;REEL/FRAME:010073/0335 Effective date: 19990427 |
|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: PAYOR NUMBER ASSIGNED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: ASPN); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
FPAY | Fee payment |
Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
REMI | Maintenance fee reminder mailed | ||
LAPS | Lapse for failure to pay maintenance fees | ||
STCH | Information on status: patent discontinuation |
Free format text: PATENT EXPIRED DUE TO NONPAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEES UNDER 37 CFR 1.362 |
|
FP | Lapsed due to failure to pay maintenance fee |
Effective date: 20100924 |