CVT Clutch Sheave Actuation for Independent Gear Ratio Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) do not effectively modify normal operating conditions such as gear ratios under certain conditions.
Innovation Solution
A CVT clutch with an actuator that overrides, augments, or supplements the normal operating characteristics of the CVT clutch, using a CVT gearing control assembly with a slave cylinder housing, slave push pistons, and an actuator assembly to move the movable sheave axially independent of reactive assembly movement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If the reactive assembly moves the movable sheave based on RPMs and torque, then the CVT clutch operates with normal operating characteristics, but the gear ratio cannot be modified under certain conditions
Solution Approach 1:
A slave cylinder assembly acts as an intermediary device between the actuator and the movable sheave. The slave cylinder receives actuation force and translates it into axial movement of the movable sheave, enabling gear ratio modification without directly coupling the actuator to the sheave. This intermediary mechanism allows independent control of the movable sheave position.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces a purely mechanical reactive assembly with a hybrid system that incorporates a hydraulic actuator and slave cylinder. The actuator assembly uses mechanical actuation (such as an actuator moving between engaged and disengaged positions) to control hydraulic pressure, which then controls the slave cylinder to move the movable sheave, substituting direct mechanical linkage with a mechanically-controlled hydraulic system.
2Ease of operation
If the movable sheave is controlled only by the reactive assembly, then the structure remains simple, but the flexibility and efficiency of CVT clutch operation cannot be enhanced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system is segmented into distinct functional components: the reactive assembly that responds to RPMs and torque, and the actuator assembly with slave cylinder that provides independent control. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function without interfering with the other, enabling flexible control while maintaining modular simplicity.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static reactive assembly to a dynamic control system where the actuator can actively adjust the movable sheave position in real-time. The actuator moves between engaged and disengaged positions, dynamically controlling the slave cylinder to modify gear ratios based on operating conditions, enhancing operational flexibility.
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
Enables independent control of gear ratios, enhancing the flexibility and efficiency of the CVT clutch operation.
Implementation Method 1
The actuator assembly includes an actuator that is configured to adjust pressure in the at least one oil line to selectively move the movable sheave axially on the post independent of movement caused by the reactive assembly
Data Source
AI summary
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) clutch is provided that includes a CVT gearing control assembly that is configured to move a movable sheave of the CVT clutch axially on a post independent of movement caused by a reactive assembly of the CVT clutch. A slave cylinder housing of the CVT gearing control assembly forms an oil chamber that includes a plurality of slave push piston cylinders. A slave push piston is received in each slave push piston cylinder in the slave cylinder housing. Each slave push piston is in operational communication with an engaging member that is configured to selectively engage and move the movable sheave. An actuator assembly adjusts pressure to selectively move the slave push pistons.