Abstract: A variator torque control system adjusts a variator output so that the actual output torque of the variator closely matches an expected output torque. In an example, pressure values of an existing torque control map are supplemented in real time with calculated pressure supplement values based on the current operation of the variator. The pressure supplement value for each mapped pressure value may be derived based on a prior application of the same or another map value.

Abstract: A variator torque control system and method utilize a hydraulic actuator to control the variator output via a torque control map, wherein the values of the torque control map are evaluated and modified during use of the map to improve map accuracy. In an example, errors in the map are evaluated to determine whether a system fault has occurred.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing a temperature of oil in a continuously variable transmission during engine start-up, the transmission including a fluid pump and motor, and a mechanical transmission. The method includes starting the engine, maintaining the fluid pump at substantially zero displacement, and heating the transmission oil by relative rotation of a first clutch disc and first clutch hub of a first clutch assembly and by relative rotation of a second clutch disc and second clutch hub of a second clutch assembly. The method further includes maintaining a substantially zero net torque from the transmission during the heating of the oil by the first and second clutch assemblies.

Abstract: A continuously variable transmission for a machine is disclosed. The machine may have a driven element, a first operator input device, a second operator input device, and a controller. The controller may be configured to receive a first displacement signal associated with the first operator input device, and a second displacement signal associated with the second operator input device. The controller may be further configured to determine a net operator input value as a function of the first and second displacement signals, and regulate an output of the driven element in response to the determined net operator input value.

Abstract: A method of dissipating power in a propelled machine having a hydromechanical transmission includes converting undesired power to retarding power, and driving an engine with at least a portion of the retarding power prior to substantially dissipating power with any other power-dissipating device.

Abstract: A method is provided for increasing a temperature of oil in a continuously variable transmission during engine start-up, the transmission including a fluid pump and motor, and a mechanical transmission. The method includes starting the engine, maintaining the fluid pump at substantially zero displacement, and heating the transmission oil by relative rotation of a first clutch disc and first clutch hub of a first clutch assembly and by relative rotation of a second clutch disc and second clutch hub of a second clutch assembly. The method further includes maintaining a substantially zero net torque from the transmission during the heating of the oil by the first and second clutch assemblies.

Abstract: An assembly used to protect the driver or occupant of a motor vehicle, particularly police officers or the like from assailants surreptitiously approaching the automobile, when parked without the knowledge of the vehicle's occupants. The detection assembly comprises a plurality of motion detectors mounted on the exterior of the vehicle and cooperatively disposed relative thereto so as to monitor a surrounding area or perimeter of substantially 360 degrees. The occupants of the vehicle are warned by an alarm assembly which provides both audible and visible communication indicating that motion has been detected within the monitored external area surrounding the vehicle. In a preferred embodiment the plurality of motion detectors each comprise a microwave and passive infrared detector structure.