Infinitely variable transmissions, continuously variable transmissions, methods, assemblies, subassemblies, and components therefor

A method of changing the ratio of a variator of a continuously variable or infinitely variable transmission having a plurality of tiltable planet axles, the method comprising the steps of:

• providing a hydraulic control valve;
• operably coupling the hydraulic control valve to an input shaft of the transmission;
• regulating the hydraulic pressure with the hydraulic control valve;
• supplying a hydraulic pressure from the hydraulic control valve through a plurality of channels and chambers in a carrier of the transmission, wherein at least some of the channels and chambers are formed in the input shaft;
• and
• actuating a change in a tilt angle of the planet axles via the hydraulic pressure.

A variator comprising:

• an input shaft;
• a carrier coupled to the input shaft;
• a first plurality of planet-pivot arm assemblies operationally coupled to the carrier;
• a first non-rotatable traction ring operationally coupled to the first plurality of planet-pivot arm assemblies;
• an output traction ring operationally coupled to the first plurality of planet-pivot arm assemblies;
• a ratio shifting mechanism comprising:
• a hydraulic valve adapted to be integral, at least in part, with the input shaft;
• and
• a hydraulic circuit configured to allow a control fluid to flow in and out of the carrier through a plurality of channels and chambers, wherein at least some of the channels and chambers are formed in the input shaft.