Planetary CVT Vane Coupling for Continuous Ratio Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) lack a coupling system that provides a large and continuous range of transmission ratios that can be accurately determined and adjusted with an external control system, and fail to offer an adjustable connection between the elements of a planetary gear set, making them interdependent.
Innovation Solution
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) system incorporating a vane coupling mechanism with a rotatable outer chamber, cam ring, control valve, and inner rotor, along with an eccentric gear set and secondary planetary gear assembly, allowing for continuous adjustment of transmission ratios through hydraulic fluid flow control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a conventional CVT without a coupling system is used, then the structure is simpler, but the transmission ratio range is limited and cannot be accurately controlled
Solution Approach 1:
A coupling system comprising a coupling mechanism and a coupling control unit is introduced as an intermediary between the power source and the planetary gear set. The coupling mechanism includes a first rotating element connected to the power source, a second rotating element connected to the planetary gear set, and a coupling mechanism body with a control element that can be actuated by the control unit to control hydraulic fluid flow, thereby enabling continuous and accurate transmission ratio control across a wide range.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism utilizes hydraulic fluid flow to transmit torque and control the transmission ratio. By actuating the control element, the system controls the flow of hydraulic fluid between the first and second rotating elements, enabling continuous adjustment of the transmission ratio without mechanical contact, which enhances adaptability while maintaining control precision.
2Adaptability or versatility
If planetary gear elements are fixedly connected, then the structure is more stable, but the transmission ratio cannot be continuously adjusted
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism enables dynamic adjustment of the connection between the power source and the planetary gear set. The control element can continuously vary the hydraulic fluid flow, allowing the transmission ratio to be dynamically adjusted across a continuous range while maintaining a stable and reliable connection throughout the adjustment process.
Solution Approach 2:
Hydraulic fluid serves as the medium to transmit torque and control the engagement between gear elements. The fluid-based connection allows for smooth, continuous adjustment of the transmission ratio without abrupt mechanical shifts, maintaining stability and reliability while enabling full adaptability in ratio selection.
3Adaptability or versatility
If a torque converter is used instead of a mechanical clutch, then automatic control is improved, but the transmission ratio range is still limited
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism is designed to perform multiple functions: it can operate as a torque converter for automatic control, function as a clutch for mechanical connection, and provide continuous transmission ratio adjustment across an extended range. The control unit can independently control the coupling mechanism to achieve desired transmission ratios, combining the benefits of automatic control with enhanced adaptability.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling mechanism acts as an intermediary that enhances the capabilities of both the torque converter and external control system. It provides a hydraulic interface that allows for continuous ratio adjustment beyond the limitations of conventional torque converters, while maintaining automatic control functionality through the coupling control unit.
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 a wide range of continuous transmission ratios to be accurately controlled, providing an adjustable and interdependent connection between planetary gear set elements, enhancing the CVT's ability to manage torque and horsepower efficiently.
Implementation Method 1
A flow of a hydraulic fluid between the two elements may transmit the torque of the input element to the output element
Implementation Method 2
The cam ring may include an ellipsoidal opening with an ellipsoidal inner surface
Implementation Method 3
An exemplary eccentric gear set may include a first gear that may be mounted in a fixed bearing unit. An exemplary first gear may be coupled and rotatable with an exemplary secondary carrier
Data Source
AI summary
A continuously variable transmission including a main planetary gear set. A sun gear of the main planetary gear set coupled to an input shaft and a ring gear of the main planetary gear set may be coupled to an output shaft. A continuous range of transmission ratios between the input shaft and the output shaft provided by gradually changing an rpm of a carrier of the main planetary gear set. To this end a vane coupling mechanism may be coupled with the main planetary gear set. The vane coupling mechanism including an inner rotor coupled with the main carrier, where the inner rotor may be rotatably disposed within an outer rotating chamber. The outer rotating chamber coupled with the main sun gear.