Toroidal Variator Actuator Layout for Compact Design
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing toroidal race rolling traction type variators face challenges in compact design due to lateral projections of piston and cylinder assemblies, which is detrimental in limited space installations.
Innovation Solution
The use of levers connected to rollers and actuators allows for more flexible positioning of actuators, enabling a more compact design by locating all actuators on one side of the variator, radially outward and beneath a common plane tangential to the discs, thereby optimizing space usage.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If piston and cylinder assemblies are positioned to control rollers, then roller position control is achieved, but lateral projections occur that increase device volume
Solution Approach 1:
The patent repositions the actuators from a lateral arrangement (causing projections) to a radial arrangement at the periphery of the toroidal race, utilizing the radial dimension more effectively. This dimensional reorganization allows actuators to be positioned at the outer periphery of the transmission assembly, eliminating lateral projections while maintaining control functionality.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent integrates the actuators into the peripheral structure of the toroidal race, merging them with the overall assembly rather than having them as separate lateral components. This consolidation allows the actuators to be positioned at the outer periphery, utilizing the available radial space and eliminating the need for additional lateral volume.
2Volume of stationary object
If actuators are positioned radially outward at the periphery, then space utilization is optimized, but actuator positioning complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The peripheral structure of the toroidal race serves multiple functions: it defines the transmission geometry, provides mounting locations for actuators, and utilizes the radial space for actuator placement. This multi-functional design integrates actuator positioning into the existing structural framework, reducing overall system complexity despite the optimized spatial arrangement.
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 results in a more compact and efficient use of available space, allowing for a more compact variator design without compromising operational effectiveness.
Implementation Method 1
The pistons are displaceable by means of hydraulic pressure and advantageously the cylinders are disposed in a common cylinder block
Data Source
AI summary
A transmission of the toroidal race rolling traction type, including ratio varying components (“variators”) for such transmissions. A set of rollers transmitting traction between an input disc and an output disc is connected to a hydraulic mechanism by which it is positioned, the roller position determining the transmitted ratio.