Device for adapting continuously variable transmissions to infinitely variable transmissions with forward-neutral-reverse capabilities

A transmission of infinitely varying output speed ratios between a maximum value in one direction and a minimum value in the opposite direction, including a zero output angular velocity value, comprising:

• a sun element operable about a first axis at a first angular velocity;
• an output element arranged for rotation about a second axis colinear with the first axis of rotation;
• at least one orbital set of elements, rotatable about a planetary axis parallel to the first axis of rotation, spaced therefrom, and carried through a path of constant radius by the sun element, the orbital set including a first planetary element having a first radius and a second planetary element having a second radius, the second radius being less than the first radius, and the second planetary element positioned to transmit power to the output element;
• a first auxiliary shaft, parallel to the first axis of rotation, driven by the sun element at an angular velocity oppositely directed to the input angular velocity;
• means including an input member, an output member, and a member for transmitting torque therebetween, the means being operable for varying the angular velocity of the of the output member relative to the angular velocity of the input member, wherein the first auxiliary shaft drives the input member;
• a second auxiliary shaft, parallel to the first axis of rotation and driven by the output element of the means for varying angular velocity, and arranged so as to drive the first planetary member at an angular velocity determined by the means for varying;
• whereby power from the sun element is divided between a first path which carries the orbital element set and a second path including the means for varying, the power from the first and second paths being joined at the orbital element set connected with the output element such that the output element can operate at an angular velocity of zero while the input element is driven at continuous speed.