Spherical Variator Torque Transmission Precision
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) face challenges in efficiently adjusting input speed to output speed due to limitations in variator mechanisms, particularly in achieving precise torque transmission and ratio adjustment.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a spherical-type variator using balls with tiltable axes of rotation, arranged radially about a longitudinal axis, which are coupled to a stator interfacial member and support member, allowing for adjustable clamping contact forces and torque transmission through tilting mechanisms.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional variator mechanisms are used, then the structure is simpler, but the precision of torque transmission and ratio adjustment is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The variator mechanism is divided into multiple spherical speed adjusters (balls) distributed in a plane about the longitudinal axis. Each ball independently transmits torque and can be tilted to adjust the speed ratio, allowing the system to achieve precise torque transmission through distributed modular units rather than a single complex mechanism
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical speed adjusters have tiltable axes of rotation that can dynamically adjust their orientation. This dynamic tilting capability allows continuous variation of the speed ratio while maintaining positive torque transmission, resolving the contradiction between precision adjustment and mechanical simplicity
2Measurement precision
If spherical speed adjusters with tiltable axes are implemented, then the speed ratio adjustment precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Each spherical speed adjustor serves multiple functions: it transmits torque through positive contact, adjusts the speed ratio by tilting, and distributes load across multiple balls. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate adjustment mechanisms, thereby limiting the increase in overall device complexity while achieving precise speed ratio control
Solution Approach 2:
The spherical balls act as intermediary elements between the input and output discs. By tilting these intermediate spherical adjusters, the system achieves precise speed ratio adjustment through a simple geometric mechanism rather than complex transmission components
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
This configuration enhances the CVT's ability to precisely adjust the input to output speed ratio, improving torque transmission efficiency and flexibility, thereby overcoming the limitations of traditional CVT mechanisms.
Implementation Method 1
one or both of which apply a clamping contact force to the rollers for transmission of torque
Implementation Method 2
The input disc applies input torque at an input rotational speed to the speed adjusters
Implementation Method 3
The input speed to output speed ratio is a function of the radii of the contact points of the input and output discs to the axes of the speed adjusters. Tilting the axes of the speed adjusters with respect to the axis of the variator adjusts the speed ratio
Data Source
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AI summary
Inventive embodiments are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). In one embodiment, a main axle (112) is adapted to receive a carrier assembly (101, 400, 600, 800) to facilitate the support of components in a CVT (100). In another embodiment, a carrier includes a stator support member (206, 304, 402, 502, 602, 802) and a stator interfacial member (208, 504). In some embodiments, the stator interfacial member is configured to interact with planet subassemblies of a CVT. Various inventive planet subassemblies (108, 406, 806) and idler assemblies (109, 700) can be used to facilitate shifting the ratio of a CVT. In some embodiments, the planet subassemblies include legs (244, 2444, 424, 810) configured to have a sliding interface with a carrier assembly. Embodiments of a hub shell (102), a hub cover (104) are adapted to house components of a CVT and, in some embodiments, to cooperate with other components of the CVT to support operation and/or functionality of the CVT. Among other things, shift control interfaces and braking features for a CVT are disclosed.