A fully mechanical, infinitely variable transmission (IVT) based on the use of an oscillating inertia is described. The system includes a four-bar linkage mechanism, an epicyclic gear train, and a pair of one-way clutches. The IVT can be used in place of both gearbox and clutch in self-propelled vehicles. A mathematical model is presented. Numerical simulations compare the behavior of a car fitted with a manual gearbox and the same car fitted with the IVT.

Issue Section:
Technical Briefs
Keywords:
clutches, gears, power transmission (mechanical), vehicle dynamics
Topics:
Gears, Inertia (Mechanics), Simulation, Torque, Modeling, Engines, Manual transmissions, Vehicles, Mechanical drives, Linkages, Torque converters
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Copyright © 2010
 by American Society of Mechanical Engineers
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