US 11,566,690 B2 · Variable transmissions with nested pulleys

Abstract

A variety of transmission mechanisms are provided that include split pulleys nested within each other in order to reduce the size of the transmissions, to provide infinitely variable transmission ratios that include forward and reverse ratios, or to provide some other benefits. The transmissions include multiple inner split pulleys nested within an outer split pulley. Two, three, or more inner split pulleys can be disposed within the transmission to balance the mass of the inner split pulleys in order to reduce vibration and internal stresses experienced by the transmission. This can increase the lifespan of the transmission, reduce wear, and increase efficiency. Additionally, providing multiple inner split pulleys in a nested configuration can allow for reduction of loads transmitted through bearings of the transmission.

Claims21

Dependent claims

A transmission having a reduced volume and a controllable transmission ratio to achieve at least one of reduced size, reduced weight, reduced cost or increased efficiency, the transmission comprising:

an outer conical split pulley having a first half-pulley and a second half-pulley;
two or more inner conical split pulleys nested within the outer conical split pulley, each inner conical split pulley having a respective first half-pulley and second half-pulley;
a belt, wherein the belt is in contact with the outer conical split pulley and with at least one of the inner conical split-pulleys;
a first input member;
and
a first output member coupled to the first input member via at least one of the two or more inner conical split pulleys such that torque can be transmitted between the first input member and the first output member.

3 more elements

an outer conical split pulley having a first half-pulley and a second half-pulley, wherein the wherein the outer conical split pulley is coupled to a mechanical ground such that the first and second half-pulleys of the outer conical split pulley are prevented from rotating;
two or more inner conical split pulleys nested within the outer conical split pulley, each inner conical split pulley having a respective first half-pulley and second half-pulley;
two or more planet gears, wherein each planet gear of the two or more planet gears is coupled to a respective inner split pulley of the two or more inner split pulleys;
a belt, wherein the belt is in contact with the outer conical split pulley and with at least one of the inner conical split-pulleys;
a first input member;
a first output member;
a sun gear coupled to the first input member;
and
a ring gear coaxial with the sun gear and coupled to the first output member, wherein the ring gear is coupled to the two or more planet gears and the sun gear is coupled to the two or more planet gears such that a torque at the sun gear causes a torque to be realized at the first output member.

6 more elements

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.

Variable transmissions with nested pulleys

Life of this patent

Variable transmissions with nested pulleys

Life of this patent

Abstract

Claims21