Abstract: A bearing which introduces a delay into the lock up path of a reverse activated activator, typically the delay is half a revolution, such that any unintentional minor reversal from the freewheel direction can be tolerated without triggering an unwanted response, the bearing is particularly useful to delay the action of a reverse stimulated rotational activity such as the activation of a brake or a bicycle stabilizer. Improved bearings and bushes useful in this application are also provided.

Abstract: A variable ratio power transmission comprising a variator and a geared drive operable in parallel along respective loading paths which unite at at least one gearset. In a first embodiment, the variator is rewindable between its ratio extremities of operation to begin a successive variable mode, while full power drive is maintained through an associated geartrain at substantially the same overall transmission ratio, thereby facilitating substantially stepless transition between successive modes. In a second embodiment, the input to a variator is switchable between its drivable elements at the ratio extremities of operation thereof to begin a successive variable mode, while full power drive is maintained through an associated geartrain at substantially the same overall transmission ratio, again facilitating substantially stepless transition between successive modes.

Abstract: A kingpin assembly for an axle of a motor vehicle comprising a front axle beam and a steering knuckle pivotally mounted thereon, the kingpin assembly comprising a kingpin fixedly secured in an aperture in the front axle beam and passing through an aperture in the steering knuckle; a bearing positioned around the kingpin within the aperture in the steering knuckle to allow relative rotation between the steering knuckle and the kingpin, and a predetermined number of annular spacers positioned around the kingpin and between the front axle beam and the bearing for providing a predetermined spacer height and for providing a required pre-load for the assembly kingpin assembly, the annular spacers having a predetermined thickness (preferably in excess of 1.0 mm) and being selected from a range of annular spacers comprising annular spacers having one of a selected number of small variations in thickness, and which when assembled can provide a variation in excess of the possible range of spacer height.

Abstract: A variable ratio power transmission mechanism having particular application to motor vehicle drive comprises a mechanical variator of the variable pitch V-pulley and drive chain type working in conjunction with three interconnected epicyclic planetary gearsets which operate with torque recirculation to substantially double the ratio spread of the variator. Ratio control means for the variator, responsive to engine and vehicle operating parameters and to a driver-operable control, allow a vehicle engine to operate always at an appropriate speed for the prevailing conditions, thus at optimum efficiency for economy during cruising operation, but at maximum power (in response to a driver signal) when optimum performance is required.