Abstract: A traction-type transmission which uses a differential reduction principle whereby the present transmission can generate an extremely high output shaft torque, while maintaining a relatively low tangential force through the traction contact. The traction elements of the present invention operate at a relatively high surface speed whereby a finite tangential force, transmitted through the traction contacts, represents more power through the transmission. The geometry of the mating traction elements produces a traction contact shape which is very long, in the rolling direction, and narrow in width. This traction contact geometry greatly increases the coefficient of traction, since traction is directly related to the buildup of lubricant strain in the rolling direction. In addition, this narrow traction contact shape virtually eliminates fluid shear. Thus, this traction contact shape not only increases the power capacity of the present invention, but also greatly increases its efficiency.

Abstract: A transverse axis infinitely variable transmission of the traction type which uses a planetary reduction principle whereby the highest input/output speed ratio is achieved as the contact radii of the elements approach similarity. All the traction elements of the present invention operate at virtually the same high surface speed whereby the minimum relative tangential force, transmitted through the traction contacts, will generate the maximum torque through the transmission. The present invention includes a spider which rotates with the main shaft about the first axis of the transmission. Compound-plants are rotatably supported by spindles which radiate outwardly from the spider hub. The axis of rotation of the compound-planets is transverse to the first axis, thereby insuring that the maximum number of traction elements of the same approximate size are incorporated into the smallest possible envelope. A first surface of each of the compound-planets is engaged with a non-rotating reaction member.

Abstract: A self-contained slip ring assembly comprising a tubular rotor having sections of differing wall thicknesses supporting slip rings on the non-structural, thin-walled section. A thick-walled section supports those components requiring structural integrity such as the single bearing on which the non-rotating housing is mounted. The said bearing is held in position by clamping means thereby allowing easy disassembly for inspection or service. The said housing supports a generally cylindrical shaped brush block assembly utilizing a unique frictional creating means which permits the removal of the brush block assembly for inspection or service without the use of tools and, also, greatly simplifies the machining required for the housing body. An easily serviceable seal design is employed thereby permitting the matching of the seal to the environment in which the present invention is to be used.

Abstract: A handle extension provides a means by which a control on a power-operated device, such as a snow thrower, can be manipulated from a more convenient and safer location. A rod-like control extension handle is coupled to an existing control handle or lever by a unique connecting bracket which is so configured that when the present invention is installed by an unskilled person, the said connecting bracket in combination with the said rod-like control extension handle prevents binding of the present invention with the existing control handle thereby permitting more precise control of the power-operated device.

Abstract: A high torque capacity infinitely variable transmission of the epicyclic type in which an input rotor is mounted on and rotates with the input shaft. A plurality of discs are rotatably supported by spindles which radiate outwardly from a spider hub which in turn is journaled and freely rotates about a portion of the input shaft. The axis of rotation of these discs lies in a common plane transverse to the axis of rotation of the input shaft and spider. The discs are in tractional engagement with the traction contact path radius of the input rotor and are driven around the traction contact path radius of the non-rotating traction ring thereby causing the discs to rotate about their axis in a direction of rotation opposite that of the input rotor and driving the spider about its axis in the same direction of rotation as the input rotor. Each disc is in driving relationship with a spindle gear. These spindle gears are in driving relationship with a sun gear which is mounted on and rotates with the output shaft.

Abstract: A transducer for sensing forces in a single axis. A beam (14) which may be the draft link of a tractor is provided with an intermediate central beam (32) defined by two relatively narrow parallel slots (30) disposed closely adjacent to the neutral plane (34) of the beam (14). The central beam (32) is provided with a reduced cross sectional area (44) which acts to mechanically amplify tensile and compressive loads applied along the axis of the beam. Strain sensing means, which may be strain gauges, are associated with the reduced cross sectional area. The slots (30) and reduced cross sectional area are formed by wire electro discharge machining.

Abstract: A high torque infinitely variable traction drive has concentric input and output shafts 22, 24 within portions disposed within a housing 12. A cup shaped input carrier 26 is rotatable with the input shaft and carries a pair of pins 46. Planetary members 54 are journaled on the pins, each of the planetary members in turn driving an output gear 62. The gears 62 are in turn interconnected with gearing 76 rotatable with the output shaft. A traction ring 60 is mounted within the housing 12 coaxial with the output shaft 24. The ring contacts an outer spherical surface 58 of the planetary members 54 to establish the rotational speed of the members. Means 82, 84, 102 are provided to axially shift the traction ring 60 relative to the outer spherical surface 58 of the planetary members whereby the speed of the members may be varied. A power take-off shaft 38 may be disposed within the output shaft 24, one end of the PTO shaft being coupled to the inner end of the input shaft 22.