Continuous variable speed transmission using variable coupling arrangement
US11193570B2 · kind B2 · utility
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 13, 2019 |
| Grant date | Dec 7, 2021 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 30, 2039 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC F)Mechanical Engineering; Lighting; Heating
- CPC primaryF16H2003/0931
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
The variable speed transmission uses multiple fluid couplings to provide a sturdy, durable variable output ratio transmission by using hydraulic fluid to vary the output. Each fluid coupling has an independent output shaft driven by the respective fluid coupling turbine. Output shafts drive alternate gears (i.e., first and third at a first fluid coupling and second and fourth at a second fluid coupling). This configuration alternates gear shifts between the fluid couplings allowing the next gear up or down to be engaged before disengaging the current gear, for uninterrupted gear changes in both up and down shifting. A fifth gear would be driven by a gear connected to the fluid coupling input shafts. Gears could be engaged with hydraulic clutches or syncromesh gears. This combined with variable slip fluid couplings allows for better torque and control.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.