Engine-starting apparatus having overrunning clutch

摘要

An engine-starting apparatus (1) includes an electric motor (21) and an overrunning clutch (5) that transmits a rotational torque of the electric motor to an internal combustion engine (35). A coupling speed (Rc) for re-coupling the clutch for re-cranking the engine while it is still rotating by the inertia is set to a point where an inertial speed (Rout) of the engine becomes equal to or a little higher than an inertial speed (Rin) of the electric motor. The electric motor (21) is switched on again when its speed decreases to the coupling speed (Rc) or lower. In this manner, shocks and noises generated in the re-coupling of the clutch (5) are avoided, and the engine can be smoothly re-cranked while it is still rotating by its inertia.