Patent · US Active

Continuously variable transmission

US7914029B2 · kind B2 · utility

101Cited by
224References
13Claims
0Family size

Assignee

Inventors

Key dates

Filing dateFeb 28, 2008
Grant dateMar 29, 2011
Priority date
Expiry dateFeb 28, 2028

Classification

  • Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
  • CPC primaryY10T74/20177
  • WIPO fieldMechanical elements
  • WIPO sectorMechanical engineering

Abstract

Traction planets and traction rings can be operationally coupled to a planetary gearset to provide a continuously variable transmission (CVT). The CVT can be used in a bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on the frame of the bicycle at a location forward of the rear wheel hub of the bicycle. In one embodiment, the CVT is mounted on and supported by members of the bicycle frame such that the CVT is coaxial with the crankshaft of the bicycle. The crankshaft is configured to drive elements of the planetary gearset, which are configured to operationally drive the traction rings and the traction planets. Inventive component and subassemblies for such a CVT are disclosed. A shifting mechanism includes a plurality of pivot arms arranged to pivot about the centers of the traction planets as a shift pin hub moves axially.

Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.