Infinitely Variable Transmission Lubrication and Shift Mechanism
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing continuously and infinitely variable transmissions (CVTs) face challenges in increasing efficiency, reducing cost, size, and complexity, and improving packaging flexibility, limiting their wider adoption across various applications.
Innovation Solution
The development of a CVT system with a main axle and lubricant manifold for efficient lubrication, a stator assembly, and a shift rod mechanism that allows for adjustable speed ratios, enabling continuous and infinitely variable transmission functionality with improved lubrication and operational simplicity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If traditional CVT designs are used, then transmission functionality is achieved, but efficiency is insufficient and complexity is high
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission system is divided into modular components: a planetary gear set with sun gear, planet gears, and ring gear; a CVT mechanism with conical pulleys and belt; and a control system. This segmentation allows each module to be optimized independently for efficiency while simplifying manufacturing and assembly, directly addressing the contradiction between efficiency and complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The planetary gear set serves multiple functions: it provides gear reduction, supports the CVT mechanism, and enables reverse gear operation. The housing structure integrates bearing supports, lubrication channels, and cooling passages. This multi-functionality reduces the number of separate components needed, lowering overall system complexity while maintaining high transmission efficiency
2Adaptability or versatility
If CVT systems are designed for wider adoption, then application versatility increases, but cost and size reduction are needed
Solution Approach 1:
The transmission housing is designed as a universal platform that can accommodate different engine types (gasoline, diesel, electric), varying power outputs, and multiple application scenarios (automotive, industrial, agricultural). Standardized mounting interfaces and adjustable gear ratios allow a single design to serve multiple markets, reducing per-unit manufacturing cost while increasing versatility
Solution Approach 2:
The system allows parameter adjustment including gear ratio ranges, torque capacity, and mounting configurations. By designing adjustable rather than fixed parameters, the same basic transmission unit can be adapted to different applications without requiring complete redesign, thereby reducing development and manufacturing costs while expanding versatility
3Loss of energy
If lubrication systems are added to improve efficiency, then transmission performance increases, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The lubrication system is merged with the housing structure itself. Lubrication galleries and oil channels are integrated directly into the housing walls, eliminating the need for separate lubrication manifolds or external pumping systems. The housing simultaneously serves as structural support, lubrication distribution network, and cooling passage system, reducing overall complexity while ensuring adequate lubrication to minimize friction losses
Solution Approach 2:
The lubrication system is designed to be self-regulating, with oil channels that automatically direct lubricant to high-friction areas based on operational conditions. The system uses the transmission's own operational heat and motion to circulate and distribute lubricant, eliminating the need for complex external control mechanisms while maintaining low friction losses
Data Source
AI summary
An infinitely variable transmission (IVT) having a rotatable input shaft arranged along a longitudinal axis of the transmission. In one embodiment, the input shaft is adapted to supply a lubricant to the interior of the transmission. In some embodiments, a stator assembly is coupled to, and coaxial with, the input shaft. The IVT has a plurality of planets operably coupled to the stator assembly. The planets are arranged angularly about the longitudinal axis of the transmission. In one embodiment, a traction ring is operably coupled to the planets. The IVT is provided with a housing that is operably coupled to the traction ring. The housing is substantially fixed from rotating with the input shaft. The traction ring is substantially fixed from rotating with the input shaft. In some embodiments, the IVT is provided with a lubricant manifold that is configured to supply a lubricant to the input shaft.