Infinitely variable transmission

Abstract

Disclosed is an infinitely variable transmission. A family of transmission gearing arrangements utilize one or two ball variators to establish a continuous range of speed ratios between an input and an output. In each case, the range of speed ratios includes an infinite ratio in which the output is stationary as the input rotates. In some embodiments having two ball variators, the outputs of the variators are combined using a planetary gear set. In other embodiments having two variators, the outputs of the variators are combined using clutches, which may be switchable one-way clutches.

Description

technical field [0001] The present disclosure relates to the field of automatic transmissions for motor vehicles. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to arrangements of transmissions and one or more ball variators in transmissions capable of operating at zero output speed and positive non-zero input speed. Background technique [0002] Many vehicles are used over a wide range of vehicle speeds, including both forward and reverse motion. However, some types of engines can only operate efficiently within a narrow speed range. Therefore, a transmission capable of efficiently transmitting power at multiple gear ratios is typically employed. When the vehicle is at low speeds, the transmission typically operates at a high gear ratio, which multiplies the engine torque for improved acceleration. At high vehicle speeds, operating the transmission at low gear ratios allows for engine speeds associated with quiet, fuel-efficient cruising. Typically, a transmission ha...

AI Technical Summary

Problems solved by technology

However, some types of engines can only operate efficiently within a narrow speed range

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