Variable-Radius Belt Transmission With Movable Engagement Members
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing continuously variable transmissions have a limited range of application and complex actuation due to the fixed, non-modifiable distance between contact blocks on pulleys, which restricts the adjustment of the running radius and leads to slipping issues between the pulley and toothed belt.
Innovation Solution
A transmission system with radially movable contact elements and engagement members that can be positioned between inner and outer radial positions, ensuring positive-locking contact with a toothed belt, allowing for continuous adjustment of the running radius and simplifying actuation by enabling the contact elements to maintain positive-locking contact across various radial positions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If contact blocks are used with fixed distance between them, then positive-locking contact is achieved, but the running radius can only be adjusted to limited discrete positions
Solution Approach 1:
The contact elements are made movable relative to the base part, allowing the engagement member to dynamically adjust its radial position. This enables the contact elements to adapt to different running radii while maintaining positive-locking contact with the toothed belt, resolving the contradiction between fixed contact geometry and variable running radius.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact element is divided into a base part and a movable engagement member. This segmentation allows the base part to remain stationary while the engagement member moves radially to achieve positive-locking contact at different positions, enabling continuous adjustment of the running radius.
2Ease of manufacture
If contact blocks with fixed tooth distance are used, then manufacturing is simplified, but the transmission has limited range of application and complex actuation
Solution Approach 1:
The movable engagement member allows the transmission to operate across a continuous range of running radii without requiring complex reconfiguration. The displacement means can simply move the contact elements radially, simplifying actuation while expanding the range of application.
Solution Approach 2:
The contact elements with movable engagement members can accommodate multiple running radii and different transmission ratios within a single configuration. This multi-functionality increases the range of application while maintaining simple actuation through radial displacement.
3Stability of the object's composition
If the distance between contact blocks is non-modifiable, then structural stability is maintained, but the running radius adjustment is restricted
Solution Approach 1:
By separating the base part from the engagement member, the invention allows the base part to maintain structural stability while the engagement member provides the necessary radial movement for running radius adjustment. The segmented structure enables independent optimization of both stability and adjustability.
Solution Approach 2:
The movable engagement member introduces dynamic capability to the otherwise stable structure. The engagement member can move radially to adjust the running radius while the base part remains stationary, maintaining structural stability during operation.
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a transmission comprising two circulating elements and a transmission element, such as a toothed belt. At least one circulating element comprises a number of contact elements for contact with the transmission element which determine a running radius of the transmission element, a radial guide for the contact elements, along which the latter are radially displaceable, displacement means for displacing the contact elements in the radial direction, wherein the transmission element has engagement elements such as teeth. Each of the contact elements comprises a base part which is in contact with the radial guide and with the displacement means, and an engagement member which is connected to the base part and is radially movable with respect to the base part, wherein the engagement member of at least one of the number of contact elements of the respective circulating element is in positive-locking contact with the transmission element.