Abstract: An infinitely variable speed drive mechanism which is specifically adaptable for automotive applications is made up of a single ball or spherical element interpositioned between drive and driven members in opposed facing relation to one another on opposite sides of the ball, each of the drive and driven members having generally annular, frusto-conical surface portions engageable along one of the surfaces of engagement with the ball, and control rollers are mounted under compression against a surface portion of the ball so as to urge the ball into balanced frictional engagement with the drive and driven members while establishing the axis of rotation of the ball and determining the speed ratio imparted through the ball between said drive and driven members.

Abstract: A differential speed reducer has a wobble member mounted on an input shaft so as to follow a sinusoidal path of movement. A first gear journaled on the wobble member has a radially disposed cam surface on one face to follow the sinusoidal movement of the wobble member, and a second gear is axially spaced from the first gear with correspondingly formed cam surfaces aligned with those of the first gear, and a plurality of balls are interpositioned between the first and second cam surfaces to transmit torque from the rotary input shaft to the second cam surface. For multiple speed reduction, a second set of cam surfaces corresponding to the first cam surfaces is interposed between the input shaft and first set of cam surfaces, and rolling elements again impart torque from the input side into the first set of cam surfaces. The first and second sets of cam surfaces can be formed on different radii and concentrically positioned with respect to one another so as to form a very compact speed reducer unit.

Abstract: A drive system adapted for use in motor vehicles comprises an infinitely variable speed drive transmission coupled to a DC motor, and the speed ratio of the transmission is controlled by a speed-responsive flyweight or governor so as to maintain the DC motor at its most efficient operating level.