Cam-Controlled CVT Clutch Balancing for Low Shift Force
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional continuously variable transmission systems require high torque and force to change gear ratios, leading to increased complexity, cost, and potential failure points, especially in applications like automotive and personal mobility, where optimizing drive systems for multiple operating conditions is challenging.
Innovation Solution
A cam-controlled continuously variable transmission system that balances axial forces in driver and driven clutches using a belt and sheaves, allowing for infinite speed ratios without the need for multiple sprockets and derailleurs, thereby reducing the force required to change speed ratios and minimizing belt noise and wear.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If conventional continuously variable transmission systems are used, then gear ratio changing is achievable, but high torque and force are required leading to increased complexity and cost
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a cam mechanism that acts as a counterbalancing device to offset the high axial forces generated during gear ratio changes. The cam profile is specifically designed to provide counterbalancing forces that reduce the net force required by the actuator, thereby reducing system complexity and actuator size while maintaining continuous variable transmission functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The cam mechanism utilizes curved geometric profiles to transform the force distribution during gear ratio changes. The cam's curved surface converts rotational motion into controlled axial displacement, providing mechanical advantage and reducing the force requirements compared to linear actuation mechanisms.
2Adaptability or versatility
If conventional continuously variable transmission systems are used, then gear ratio changing is achievable, but a large amount of force is required to change speed ratio
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism functions as a force-balancing device that generates counteracting forces to offset the high axial loads during speed ratio transitions. This reduces the net force that the actuator must provide, enabling more efficient and less strenuous operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static force transmission to dynamic force balancing through the cam mechanism. The cam profile is optimized to provide varying counterbalancing forces throughout the motion cycle, adapting the force distribution to match the instantaneous requirements of the clutch engagement and disengagement processes.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple sprockets and derailleurs are used to change gear ratio, then gear ratio optimization for multiple operating conditions is achievable, but system complexity and failure points increase
Solution Approach 1:
The continuously variable transmission system provides universal adaptability to multiple operating conditions through continuous ratio adjustment, eliminating the need for discrete multiple sprocket sets. This single-system approach maintains reliability by reducing the number of moving parts and potential failure points while preserving the ability to optimize performance across various operating scenarios.
4Power
If high torque is produced in the system, then power transmission capability is improved, but axial forces on the belt increase leading to decreased belt life and increased noise
Solution Approach 1:
The cam mechanism provides force balancing that specifically addresses the axial force component acting on the belt during torque transmission. By generating counterbalancing forces, the cam reduces the net axial load on the belt, thereby extending belt life and reducing noise while maintaining high torque transmission capability through the radial force component.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The cam-controlled system optimizes power transmission by minimizing the force needed to change speed ratios, increasing belt life and reducing noise, while enabling efficient operation across various operating conditions without the complexity of multiple sprockets and derailleurs.
Implementation Method 1
The present invention utilizes a cam-controlled actuator to balance the forces in the driver and driven clutches to minimize the force required to change the speed ratio
Implementation Method 2
utilize a belt for transmitting power to impart motion to the system
Data Source
AI summary
An arrangement for balancing axial forces in driver and driven clutches of a continuously variable transmission system that may include but is not limited to a pulley, a sheave mechanism, a driver clutch mechanism, or driver clutch, a driven pulley mechanism, a driven clutch mechanism, or driven clutch, and a shifting mechanism, servo, actuator mechanism, or actuator. The torque transmitted by the continuously variable transmission system is converted to axial forces acting upon belt. The forces in driver and driven clutches are balanced to minimize the force required for speed changes by shifting mechanism.