CVT Control System Discrete Speed Ranges
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Solution Overview
Problem
Operators of machines with continuously variable transmissions (CVT) face difficulty in controlling travel speed, as CVT does not provide discrete, selectable speed ranges like conventional transmissions, leading to operator fatigue in managing speeds in rough terrain.
Innovation Solution
A transmission control system with operator input devices for selecting discrete machine travel speed ranges and a controller that regulates power output to maintain the selected speed ranges, allowing for familiar speed control akin to step-change transmissions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If a CVT provides infinitely variable torque-to-speed output ratio within its overall range, then engine efficiency is improved, but operator control difficulty increases due to lack of discrete speed ranges
Solution Approach 1:
The continuous speed range of the CVT is segmented into multiple discrete selectable speed ranges (e.g., first speed range, second speed range, third speed range) with different maximum speeds. This allows the operator to select appropriate speed ranges for different working conditions, providing familiar discrete control while maintaining CVT's continuous variability within each range, thus resolving the contradiction between engine efficiency and operator control ease.
2Speed
If the accelerator pedal is fully depressed in a machine with CVT, then maximum possible speed is achieved, but operator fatigue increases due to inability to easily maintain intermediate speeds
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adapts the accelerator pedal's function based on the selected speed range. When a speed range is selected, the pedal controls speed within that range rather than always commanding maximum speed. This dynamic adjustment allows operators to easily maintain intermediate speeds by simply selecting the appropriate range and using normal pedal input, eliminating the fatigue caused by constantly modulating pedal position for rough terrain.
3Ease of operation
If conventional transmissions use discrete gears with predefined maximum travel speeds, then operator familiarity and task-specific control are improved, but transmission complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the advantages of conventional discrete gear transmissions with the advantages of CVT technology. The system combines the discrete speed range selection (providing familiar gear-like control) with continuous variable transmission (providing smooth acceleration and engine efficiency). This hybrid approach gives operators the familiarity of discrete gears while eliminating the complexity and mechanical limitations of multi-gear transmissions.
Data Source
AI summary
A continuously variable transmission control system is disclosed. The control system has a first operator input device to receive operator input and produce a corresponding first signal indicative of a selected one of a plurality of available predetermined discrete machine travel speed ranges. The control system also has a second operator input device to receive operator input and produce a corresponding second signal indicative of desired machine travel. The control system also has a power source operatively coupled to drive a continuously-variable transmission, and a controller configured to regulate at least one of an output of the power source and an output of the continuously variable transmission in response to the first and second signals such that an actual machine travel speed remains within the selected one of the plurality of predetermined discrete machine travel speed ranges.


