With Actuator Driven By Electrical Or Fluid Motor Patents (Class 474/18)
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Patent number: 6336878Abstract: A continuously variable transmission for use in the power train of a motor vehicle has parallel input and output shafts, an adjustable pulley on each shaft, an endless torque transmitting chain or belt trained over the pulleys, and a torque sensor which transmits variable torque from the engine of the motor vehicle to the pulley on the input shaft. The torque sensor also serves to initiate and regulate the adjustments of the pulleys.Type: GrantFiled: May 18, 1999Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Matthias Ehrlich, Bernhard Walter
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Patent number: 6336880Abstract: In the hydraulic control device a pressure-reducing valve (MF) is used to produce the belt-tightening pressure for the two pairs of disks (SSA, SSB) of a cone-pulley transmission, while the function of shifting the transmission ratio is performed by a ratio-shifting valve device (DBV13) that adds pressure fluid to one and simultaneously removes pressure fluid from the other of the pairs of conical disks. The pressure-reducing valve and the ratio-shifting valve device work in a cascade arrangement where the assurance of a sufficient belt-tightening pressure takes precedence over the ratio-shifting function.Type: GrantFiled: May 15, 2000Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kupplungsbau GmbHInventor: Ivo Agner
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Patent number: 6336879Abstract: A continuously variable transmission with two adjustable pulleys and an endless torque-transmitting chain trained over the pulleys has a torque sensor which transmits variable torque from the rotary output element of a prime mover (such as the engine of a motor vehicle) to the axially movable flange of one of the pulleys. The torque sensor comprises one or more rolling elements and cam faces and/or guide surfaces which confine the rolling element(s) to movements radially and/or axially of the respective pulley. At least the rolling element(s) and those components of the torque sensor which define the cam faces and/or the guide surfaces of the torque sensor are confined in a fluid-containing plenum chamber adjacent the axially movable flange of the one pulley to thus achieve a pronounced reduction of space requirements of the unit including the one pulley and the torque sensor in the axial direction of the one pulley.Type: GrantFiled: November 3, 1999Date of Patent: January 8, 2002Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Jochen Schmid, Oswald Friedmann
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Patent number: 6332856Abstract: A continuously variable transmission wherein a driving pulley comprising a fixed driving pulley piece and a movable driving pulley piece is mounted on a driving shaft, a driven pulley comprising a fixed driven pulley piece and a movable driven pulley piece is mounted on a driven shaft disposed in parallel with the driving shaft, and a belt is entrained on both the driving pulley and the driven pulley. A torque converter and a forward/reverse change-over mechanism are disposed on an input side of the driving shaft with respect to the driving pulley, and an output clutch is disposed on an output side of the driven shaft with respect to the driven pulley.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 2000Date of Patent: December 25, 2001Assignee: Suzuki Motor CorporationInventor: Michitaka Iwamoto
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Publication number: 20010049312Abstract: A variable speed drive system is provided for use in driving accessories. The system is driven by a rotational member, which can be a component of an engine or any other rotating device. The system includes two pulleys rotationally connected by a first belt. In order to change the speed of the second pulley the pitch radius of the first pulley can be varied by an actuating system which can be located remotely from the pulleys. The second pulley maintains tension within the first belt and drives accessories via a second belt. The system has infinitely variable speed control between minimum and maximum pitch ratios.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 27, 2000Publication date: December 6, 2001Inventors: Steven E. Warner, Gary M. Putnam
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Publication number: 20010046911Abstract: An apparatus and a method control a belt-type continuously variable transmission of a vehicle having a continuously variable speed ratio, which is a ratio of a rotation speed of an input shaft to a rotation speed of an output shaft. The speed ratio of the transmission is controlled by changing a groove width of each of the pulleys, and a belt clamping pressure applied to at least one of the pulleys to clamp the torque transfer belt also is controlled. Furthermore, the speed ratio of the transmission is set to a low-load speed ratio when it is determined that control of the belt clamping pressure has failed and the belt clamping pressure is raised to a high level. The low-load speed ratio is predetermined so that a load applied to the torque transfer belt is substantially minimized.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 30, 2001Publication date: November 29, 2001Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Hiroji Taniguchi, Katsumi Kono, Kenji Matsuo, Hideki Yasue, Tadashi Tamura, Daisuke Inoue, Yoshiaki Yamamoto, Hiroshi Morioka, Hiroki Kondo, Ryoji Habuchi
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Patent number: 6322466Abstract: A continuously variable chain-belt transmission has two cone-disk pulleys (pairs of conical disks) (4, 5), a chain belt (2) as well as a noise-damping device (23) for damping the noise generated by the chain-belt running over the cone-disk pulleys. The noise-damping device is arranged at the bearings of the conical disks (4, 5) and prevents sound waves from being transmitted through material portions of the transmission from the conical disks to adjacent parts.Type: GrantFiled: December 14, 1999Date of Patent: November 27, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventor: Rainer Eidloth
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Publication number: 20010044350Abstract: The continuously variable belt transmission is provided with a fixed sheave and a movable sheave provided on a secondary shaft, a first hydraulic chamber that presses the movable sheave in an axial direction, a second hydraulic chamber that gives the movable sheave a pressing force acting in a direction opposite the pressing force given by the first hydraulic chamber, an oil passage connected to the second hydraulic chamber, and an oil receiver disposed along a path from the oil passage to the second hydraulic chamber. The oil receiver is attached to the secondary shaft, a bearing and a bulkhead are disposed on both sides of the oil receiver, an oil passage is provided in the secondary shaft, and a grooved portion provided in the oil receiver connects the second hydraulic chamber and the oil passage.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Masabumi Nishigaya, Shinya Kuwabara, Masami Sugaya, Shinji Kasuga, Syoichi Sayo, Hiroshi Morioka
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Publication number: 20010044349Abstract: In a belt-type continuously variable transmission having a primary pulley provided on a primary shaft, a belt wound and hung around the primary pulley, a carrier fitted to the primary pulley in a power transmissible manner, and a bearing supporting the primary pulley, a gap allowing the primary shaft and the carrier to intersect with each other is provided between outer and inner teeth for fitting the primary shaft and the carrier to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 22, 2001Publication date: November 22, 2001Applicant: TOYOTA JIDOSHA KABUSHIKI KAISHAInventors: Yukihiro Tanigawa, Atsushi Honda
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Patent number: 6317672Abstract: In an infinite speed ratio transmission comprising a continuously variable transmission (2), reduction gear unit (3) and planetary gear set (5), the speed ratio of the continuously variable transmission (2) is controlled by a step motor (36). A range selected by a selector lever (86) is detected by a sensor (84). When the selected range has changed from a stationary range to one of a forward motion range and a reverse motion range, a microprocessor (80) first drives the step motor (36) to a predetermined position (S48, S54).Type: GrantFiled: July 12, 2000Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Hiroaki Kuramoto, Motoharu Nishio, Hiromasa Sakai, Yasushi Narita, Tatsuya Nagato, Manzaburou Abe
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Patent number: 6315693Abstract: In a control system for controlling a continuously variable transmission of a vehicle having an idle speed control valve disposed in a bypass passage around a throttle valve, a throttle opening angle guard value is set to specify a throttle full-closed change gear line in accordance with engine coolant temperature. The actual throttle opening angle is compared with the throttle opening angle guard value, and the larger of them is set as a change gear ratio calculating throttle opening angle. Further, by referring to a basic change gear characteristic map, and in accordance with the change gear ratio calculating throttle opening angle and vehicle speed as parameters, a target primary pulley revolution number is set.Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1999Date of Patent: November 13, 2001Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Ryuji Tayama
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Publication number: 20010031678Abstract: A continuously variable transmission wherein each of two parallel shafts carries a pulley having a fixed flage and a second flange movable axially of the shaft toward and away from the respective fixed flange. An endless torque transmitting chain or belt is trained over the two pulleys. At least one flange of at least one of the pulleys is assembled of two or more parts which consist of sheet metal and are welded and/or otherwise affixed to each other.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 7, 2001Publication date: October 18, 2001Applicant: LUK GETRIEBE-SYSTEME GMBHInventors: Jochen Schmid, Rainer Eidloth, Carsten Weinhold, Roland Holz, Bernhard Walter
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Publication number: 20010027143Abstract: A first side-pressure, that is supplied to cylinder 74 of the drive pulley 71 or to cylinder 78 of the driven pulley 75 as pressure determining the transmission torque capacity of continuously variable transmission mechanism 70, is supplied to a frictional engagement element, where it is used as the working hydraulic fluid pressure. The transmission torque capacity of the frictional engagement element is set to be somewhat lower than the transmission torque capacity of the continuously variable transmission mechanism.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 22, 2001Publication date: October 4, 2001Applicant: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventors: Shigeji Nakano, Junji Urano, Yoichi Sato
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Patent number: 6293887Abstract: A plate link chain of the present invention has rocker link elements configured such that the frictional end surfaces have a profile, which deviates from a planar surface in both circumferential and radial orientations. In a preferred embodiment the end surface profiles are defined by radii of predetermined dimensions in the range of 5 to 50 millimeters with the radius formed in the radial plane being larger than the radius formed in the circumferential plane. The radii originate from midpoints, which are located at predetermined distances from the rocking surfaces, to form substantially spherical end surfaces that are either symmetric or asymmetric for selected applications. The substantially spherical end surfaces are designed to reduce the edge transfer forces and tracking error of the rocker link elements and to improve wear characteristics and the stability of frictional engagement of the transmission in operation.Type: GrantFiled: February 4, 2000Date of Patent: September 25, 2001Assignee: LuK Lamellen und Kuppungsbau GmbHInventors: André Linnenbrügger, André Teubert, Klaus Scheufele
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Patent number: 6290620Abstract: A continuously variable transmission and method for preventing transmission belt slippage in the case of a sudden change in load torque on the transmission involve one or both of inserting a lag in the transmission with a torsional spring damper or elastomer damper device between the device to be driven and an output shaft of the secondary pulley of the transmission, and inserting a lag in a hydraulic pressure control loop of the transmission compensating for a difference between the rate of torque transmission between the device to be driven and the transmission, and a response rate of the hydraulic pressure control loop to a sudden change in load torque. The transmission is used to drive an aircraft electrical generator at a constant speed in the disclosed embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: June 25, 1999Date of Patent: September 18, 2001Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Shan-Chin Tsai, Johannes Wilhelm Picard, Douglas Jerome Turner
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Patent number: 6287227Abstract: A continuously variable transmission (CVT) has a drive sheave and a driven sheave, each of which has an adjustable portion, that are positioned by hydraulic control pistons. The pistons are pressurized from a control system to properly position each adjustable portion, such that a flexible drive member, trained over the sheaves, operates at the required diameter to establish the desired speed ratio between the drive sheave and the driven sheave. The control has two variable displacement pump assemblies that supply hydraulic fluid at the required pressure to maintain the desired ratio and to effect a ratio change as required by the operating conditions. One of the pumps supplies a primary pressure which is proportional to the torque requirement of the CVT and the other pump supplies the necessary pressure bias to effect the ratio change.Type: GrantFiled: September 20, 1999Date of Patent: September 11, 2001Assignee: General Motors CorporationInventors: Hamid Vahabzadeh, Norman Kenneth Bucknor
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Patent number: 6277043Abstract: An improved torque monitoring sensor for an infinitely variable transmission including integrated wear reduction elements designed to minimize the hysteresis associated with physical strains, axial thrust forces, and mechanical friction introduced into components of the torque monitoring sensor during operation is disclosed. In one embodiment the present wear reduction elements include the formation of a symmetrical pattern of elongated slots in the cylindrical sheet metal housing of an axially displaceable cam disc component in the torque monitoring sensor to provide a degree of structural flexibility to the housing. So modified, the cam disc housing undergoes flexion in response to micro-movements generated by abrupt changes in the torque transmitted.Type: GrantFiled: February 23, 2000Date of Patent: August 21, 2001Assignee: Luk Lamellen und Kupplungsbau GmbHInventor: Oswald Friedmann
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Patent number: 6246940Abstract: In a vehicle transmission wherein plural speed change ratios from a largest speed change ratio to a smallest speed change ratio are selectively applied according to a command input by a driver, a real speed change ratio of the transmission is detected. It is determined whether or not the transmission is performing a shift-down based on the input command and the real speed change ratio. A shift-down limit speed change ratio is determined based on the speed change ratio before the shift-down operation is performed, and when the engine brake of the vehicle is operating, the transmission is controlled so as not to apply a speed change ratio larger than this shift-down limit speed change ratio. Due to this, the driver does not experience an excessive engine braking sensation even when an extreme speed change command is issued.Type: GrantFiled: July 7, 1998Date of Patent: June 12, 2001Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Tatsuo Ochiai, Hirofumi Okahara
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Patent number: 6241635Abstract: A continuously variable transmission wherein each of two parallel shafts carries a pulley having a fixed flange and a second flange movable axially of the shaft toward and away from the respective fixed flange. An endless torque transmitting chain or belt is trained over the two pulleys. At least one flange of at least one of the pulleys is assembled of two or more parts which consist of sheet metal and are welded and/or otherwise affixed to each other.Type: GrantFiled: March 9, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Jochen Schmid, Rainer Eidloth, Carsten Weinhold, Roland Hölz, Bernhard Walter
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Patent number: 6243638Abstract: An electronic transmission control system for an automotive vehicle with a belt-type continuously variable automatic transmission comprises a transmission ratio control device including a first motor-driven oil pump supplying working pressure directly to a secondary pulley actuation chamber, and a second motor-driven oil pump supplying working pressure directly to a primary pulley actuation chamber and enabling working oil to come and go between the primary and secondary pulley actuation chambers therethrough. A first control section is provided for controlling the first motor-driven oil pump so that the actual secondary pulley pressure is adjusted to a target working pressure needed to hold a belt capacity of a drive belt, which belt capacity is defined as a capacity required for exerting a grip of the drive belt on primary and secondary pulleys.Type: GrantFiled: December 23, 1999Date of Patent: June 5, 2001Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Keiju Abo, Masahiro Yamamoto, Osamu Sato, Hideaki Suzuki
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Patent number: 6234925Abstract: A continuously variable speed transmission with a first adjustable pulley on an input shaft, a second adjustable pulley on an output shaft, and an endless chain or belt trained over the pulleys employs at least one coil spring which biases one flange of one of the pulleys axially of the respective shaft. The coil spring has larger-diameter end convolutions and smaller-diameter intermediate convolutions. A plenum chamber of a torque sensor or of at least one of several piston-cylinder units—which serve to adjust the axially movable flanges of the pulleys—is bounded in part by a check valve in the form of a composite seal having a rigid annular element and an elastic annular element. One of the annular elements surrounds the other element.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: May 22, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventor: Bernhard Walter
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Patent number: 6217469Abstract: A control system controls a line pressure applied to a CVT upon taking account of a certrifugal pressure caused by a rotation of pulleys. The control system determines whether the centrifugal pressure is greater than a predeterminied value only by which the pulley transmits an input torque from an engine. When the determination is affirmative, a lower limit of a duty ratio for operating a line pressure control valve is switched from a lower limit of a linear range to 0% duty ratio. Therefore, an actual transmissiou ratio control range is expanded while preventing an undershoot of the line pressure.Type: GrantFiled: July 16, 1998Date of Patent: April 17, 2001Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Sawada, Hirofumi Okahara
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Patent number: 6186917Abstract: A continuously variable speed transmission with two adjustable sheaves and an endless chain trained over the sheaves has a torque transmitting and monitoring unit which is installed between a prime mover, such as the engine of a motor vehicle, and an axially movable flange of one of the sheaves. The monitoring unit has two annular plenum chambers which are sealed from each other while the ratio of the transmission is within a first range, and which communicate with each other when the ratio is within a second range. A check valve between the two chambers can employ a resilient annular seal having a U-shaped cross-sectional outline. A radially outer annular portion of the seal has a lip which normally bears against the internal surface of an annular member of the valve.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1998Date of Patent: February 13, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Oswald Friedmann, Bernhard Walter
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Patent number: 6179739Abstract: A continuously variable transmission and method for preventing transmission belt slippage in the case of a sudden increase in load torque on the transmission involves both inserting a lag in the transmission to allow the control loops time to respond to the sudden increase in load torque and speeding up the responses of the control loops in response to the sudden increase in load torque. The transmission is used to drive an aircraft electrical generator at a constant speed in the disclosed embodiment.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: January 30, 2001Assignee: Hamilton Sunstrand CorporationInventors: Shan-Chin Tsai, William G. Durtschi
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Patent number: 6174253Abstract: An infinitely variable transmission has a first pair of conical flanges arranged on a first shaft and a second pair of conical flanges arranged on a second shaft, where each pair has an axially movable flange and an axially fixed flange. A torque-transmitting means is disposed between the pairs of conical flanges. Piston/cylinder units and plenum chambers comprising circular ring-shaped elements serve to apply pressure to and effect axial movement of the movable conical flanges. The ring-shaped elements have radially inner portions with openings to receive the shafts. The radially inner portion of at least one of the ring-shaped elements has a welded seam connecting the ring-shaped element to the shaft received by its opening.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 1998Date of Patent: January 16, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Bernhard Walter, Kurt Graef, Rainer Eidloth
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Patent number: 6171207Abstract: In a transmission having shaft-mounted components operated by a pressurized medium or fluid, the fluid is supplied to the components using an at least partially hollow shaft. A hollow tube within the bore of the shaft carries the fluid. The tube may be divided into separate passageways so as to control flow of fluid to selected components and isolate components from each other. The fluid pressure in the components may be torque-dependently modulated by a torque sensor.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 1998Date of Patent: January 9, 2001Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Matthias Ehrlich, Rainer Eidloth
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Patent number: 6126138Abstract: A pressure reducing valve and a continuously variable transmission comprising an output pressure feedback loop operatively connected to provide proportional control of an output pressure of a flow of fluid passing through the pressure reducing valve in response to an input signal applied to a pilot stage control valve of the pressure reducing valve from an external source. The pressure reducing valve includes a main stage two-way spool valve having a valve body and a valve spool movable within the valve body in response to an imbalance of forces on the valve spool. The valve body has a supply port for receiving pressurized fluid from a source of constant hydraulic pressure and a load port for communicating a load pressure and flow from the spool valve to an actuator of the secondary pulley of the transmission to maintain transmission belt tension while preventing or minimizing belt slippage. The open area of the load port is dependent on the position of the valve spool within the valve body.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: October 3, 2000Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventor: Shan-Chin Tsai
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Patent number: 6123634Abstract: An infinitely variable-speed transmission for use in the power train of a motor vehicle has two rotary sheaves and an endless flexible element trained over the sheaves to transmit torque from the flanges of one of the sheaves to the flanges of the other sheave when the one sheave is driven by the prime mover of the vehicle. The flanges have exposed conical surfaces which are frictionally engaged by the exposed end surfaces of pintles forming part of the flexible element when the latter transmits torque. The flanges are hardened, cushioned, roughened and/or otherwise treated at their exposed surfaces to promote the ability of the sheaves to eliminate or reduce noise on contact with the pintles, to stand long periods of use without extensive wear, and/or to transmit pronounced and variable torques.Type: GrantFiled: October 7, 1997Date of Patent: September 26, 2000Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Hartmut Faust, Richard Stark
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Patent number: 6106420Abstract: A continuously variable transmission and a drive train having a continuously variable transmission. The transmission is provided with a drive pulley and a driven pulley, each having at least one axially displaceable disc in order to be able to pinch an endless transmission element between the discs of a pulley, the transmission being controlled, at least during full movement of the pulleys, in such a way that the pinching force of the drive pulley is dependent on the pinching force applied to the transmission element via the secondary pulley, and the pinching force applied being determined, at least in part, as a function of a torque which is to be transmitted. The transmission is adapted in such a manner that, at least while the pulleys are at a standstill or during the initial revolutions of the driven pulley, prior to the abovementioned method of control during full movement, the transmission is controlled in a different way which effects the presence of pinching force in the primary pulley.Type: GrantFiled: February 19, 1999Date of Patent: August 22, 2000Assignee: Van Doorne's Transmissie B.V.Inventors: Johannes Antonius Adrianus Ketelaars, Hendrikus Adrianus Arnoldus Wilhelmina Pelders, Arjen Brandsma, Adrianus Albertus Antonie Van Heeswijk, Johannes Hendrikus Van Lith
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Patent number: 6099424Abstract: A continuously variable transmission, and particularly a control arrangement thereof and a method for recovering belt slippage in the transmission, are disclosed. A source of hydraulic pressure is operatively connected for driving each of the hydraulically operated actuators for axially movable sheaves of primary and secondary pulleys of the transmission. A hydraulic pressure control loop controls the hydraulic pressure applied to the actuator of the secondary pulley as a function of the load of the device being driven on the transmission and the pitch radius of the secondary pulley. An output speed control loop controls the output speed of the transmission driving the device to be driven during normal operation of the transmission. Preferably, the output speed control loop may be set to control the output speed at a constant value for driving an aircraft electric generator.Type: GrantFiled: December 30, 1998Date of Patent: August 8, 2000Assignee: Hamilton Sundstrand CorporationInventors: Shan-Chin Tsai, William G. Durtschi
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Patent number: 6090000Abstract: An emergency hydraulic control is provided for a transmission-dependent change of the hydraulic fluid pressures in a first and second hydraulic conical disk axial displacement of a continuously variable transmission, wherein a pump supplies at least the piston chamber of a second axial displacement, and a downstream-connected remote-controlled differential pressure regulator and at least one electro-magnetically actuable pressure relief valve limits the fluid pressure there, and feed from this supply the piston chamber of a first axial displacement, as well as a remote control having an opening function leading to the valve via the remote-control line, via a continuous way valve, whose opening movement into the flow-through position is controlled with the aid of the pressure present upstream of the valve, wherein at least the individual driving states such as forward running, reverse running and idling, can be selected by means of appropriate switching positions of an manual switching valve; and in case of anType: GrantFiled: September 8, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventor: Karl-Heinz Senger
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Patent number: 6089999Abstract: In a pulley arrangement of a belt-type continuously variable transmission, a ring member (6) integrated with a first cylinder member (3) is coupled to a second cylinder member (5) using splines (6d and 5c) to limit mutual movements of the first and second cylinder members and using snap ring (7) to limit the axial displacement therebetween in peripheral directions of the respective first and second cylinder members. The first cylinder member is slidably contacted on an outer peripheral surface of a hollow cylindrical portion of a second conical pulley component. The second cylinder member is fixed onto an outer peripheral surface of a shaft portion of a first conical pulley component.Type: GrantFiled: January 22, 1998Date of Patent: July 18, 2000Assignees: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Aichi Machine Industry Co. Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Imaida, Kiyofumi Tanaka, Yusuke Kasuya, Masahiko Yamada
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Patent number: 6068565Abstract: A continuously variable speed transmission has two adjustable sheaves and an endless chain or belt which is trained over and transmits torque between the sheaves. One of the sheaves can be driven by a prime mover, and the other sheave can drive a torque receiving device. Each sheave has a shaft, a first flange which is fixed to the shaft, and a second flange which is movable axially of the shaft toward and away from the first flange. The shaft portion between the flanges of at least one of the sheaves is located in the path of one or more sprays of a cooling and/or lubricating fluid which flows axially of the shaft and along the confronting conical surfaces of the flanges. The spray or sprays are supplied by the nozzle(s) of a conduit which receives fluid from a pump in the hydraulic system of the transmission.Type: GrantFiled: November 24, 1998Date of Patent: May 30, 2000Assignee: LuK Getriebe-Systeme GmbHInventors: Peter Riemer, Oswald Friedmann
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Patent number: 6050911Abstract: An infinitely variable speed transmission in which the transmission ratio results from the equilibrium of the total contact pressure force on the one V-belt pulley and the contact pressure force on the other V-belt pulley determined by a V-belt. The total contact pressure force having a torque-dependent proportion and a proportion which is a function of at least one outside operating parameter.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1996Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: DaimlerChrysler AGInventors: Harald Feuchter, Ottmar Back
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Patent number: 6050912Abstract: A continuously variable transmission for an automotive vehicle comprises a drive pulley including axially first and second wheel counterparts which define therebetween a pulley groove. The first wheel counterpart of the drive pulley is axially movable under an axial thrust to decrease the width of the pulley groove. A driven pulley is provided including first and second wheel counterparts which define therebetween a pulley groove. The first wheel counterpart of the driven pulley is axially movable under an axial thrust to decrease the width of the pulley groove. An annular belt is passed on the drive and driven pulleys to drivingly connect the drive and driven pulleys. The belt is fitted in the pulley groove of each pulley, and includes a plurality of elements which are aligned along periphery of the belt. A control unit variably controls the width of the pulley groove in accordance with a transmission ratio based on an operating condition of the vehicle, and sets the axial thrust (Q) so that a value of (Q.Type: GrantFiled: January 20, 1998Date of Patent: April 18, 2000Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventor: Daisuke Kobayashi
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Patent number: 6042498Abstract: An automatic transmission including a continuously variable transmission, a friction type starting apparatus and a forward and reverse changeover apparatus, comprises a sealed clutch housing rotating integrally with an engine output shaft for accommodating the friction type starting clutch and the forward and reverse changeover apparatus therein, a lubricating oil filled up in the clutch housing for cooling the starting clutch and the forward and reverse changeover apparatus and a clutch drum of the starting clutch integrally formed with the clutch housing, thereby an abrupt temperature rise in the starting clutch can be prevented and the durability of the starting clutch can be substantially improved. Further, since the friction type starting clutch and the forward and reverse changeover apparatus are packaged in the sealed clutch housing, a compact automatic transmission can be realized.Type: GrantFiled: October 21, 1998Date of Patent: March 28, 2000Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Hajime Kashiwase
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Patent number: 6017286Abstract: A power train for use in motor vehicles has an infinitely variable transmission with two adjustable sheaves, an endless flexible torque transmitting element trained over the sheaves, and at least one hydraulic adjusting unit for each of the sheaves. The adjusting units receive pressurized fluid from a pump and the pressure of such fluid, and hence the extent of frictional clamping engagement between the sheaves and the flexible element, is regulated by a torque sensor including a plenum chamber with an outlet having an effective cross-sectional area which is variable in dependency upon variations of torque being applied to the torque sensor by the engine of the vehicle. The energy of fluid leaving the plenum chamber is used to operate a jet pump which draws fluid from a source for lubrication and/or cooling of the transmission and/or one or more clutches forming part of the power train.Type: GrantFiled: April 10, 1997Date of Patent: January 25, 2000Assignee: Luk Getriebe-Systems GmbHInventor: Oswald Friedmann
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Patent number: 6015359Abstract: In a belt type continuously variable transmission, the oil for the canceler oil chamber and the oil for lubricating the endless belt are commonly used to reduce the required amount of oil to be supplied. The gear shift control oil is supplied to the pulley oil chamber of the driven pulley mounted on the output shaft of the belt type continuously variable transmission through a feed pipe, oil holes of a plug, an oil groove, oil holes of the output shaft and oil holes of the movable pulley half. The lubricating oil supplied to a first in-shaft oil chamber of the output shaft is further supplied through the oil holes of the output shaft to the canceler oil chamber of the driven pulley and also from the first in-shaft oil chamber through a throttle in the plug, the second in-shaft oil chamber and the oil holes of the output shaft to the endless belt.Type: GrantFiled: March 16, 1998Date of Patent: January 18, 2000Assignee: Honda Giken Kogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Rikiya Kunii
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Patent number: 6007452Abstract: A control system for a CVT comprises a controller arranged to compute an engine revolution condition on the basis of an engine revolution speed indicative signal, to compute actual and estimated engine outputs on the basis of the engine revolution condition, to compute a rotational change condition of the drive system, to compute an actual input load change amount caused by the inertia by multiplying the actual rotational change condition detection value by a predetermined inertial constant, to compute an estimated input load change amount by multiplying the estimated rotational change condition detection value by a predetermined inertia coefficient, to select larger one of the actual input load change amount and the estimated input load change amount as the input load change amount for outputting a command signal, and to output the command signal to a line pressure duty valve on the basis of the engine output and the selected input load change amount so as to further accurately control a line pressure.Type: GrantFiled: July 10, 1998Date of Patent: December 28, 1999Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.Inventors: Makoto Sawada, Hirofumi Okahara
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Patent number: 5993338Abstract: An apparatus for controlling a dynamic system, for example, a continuously variable transmission for an automotive vehicle which adjusts a gear ratio by bringing a pulley position of a primary pulley into agreement with a target one through a hydraulic system under the feedforward and sliding mode control is provided. The apparatus calculates a feedforward-controlled variable in addition to a feedback-controlled variable and adjusts the pulley position of the primary pulley to a target one using the hydraulic pressure provided based on the sum of the feedforward-controlled variable and the feedback-controlled variable, thereby enhancing the robustness of the sliding mode control without causing the hunting.Type: GrantFiled: February 27, 1998Date of Patent: November 30, 1999Assignee: Denso CorporationInventors: Yoshifumi Kato, Noboru Miyamoto, Masanori Sugiura, Masami Fujitsuna
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Patent number: 5983152Abstract: A process for regulating continuously variable transmissions in motor vehicles by means of a controller includes a first control circuit as a speed controller for regulating the transmission input speed as the product calculated from the transmission output speed and the transmission ratio, and a second control circuit post-connected to the first control circuit as a speed gradient controller for regulating the time derivative of the transmission input speed. A correction value, dependent on the functional value of a correcting function and obtained from a correction element, is added to the summation element at the controller input of one of the two control circuits. The correction value is obtained such that the regulating ranges are specified, respectively, with a different control behavior of the controller.Type: GrantFiled: January 8, 1997Date of Patent: November 9, 1999Assignee: Temic Telefunken microelectronic GmbHInventors: Michael Genzel, Rodolfo Moller, Armin Tonn
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Patent number: 5971876Abstract: A hydraulic emergency control for changing the hydraulic oil pressure in the hydraulic conical pulley axial adjustment mechanism of a continuously variable transmission (10) for varying the clamping force ratio has a pump (20) in an open hydraulic circuit that supplies the respective piston chambers (17, 13) of the secondary and primary axial adjustment mechanisms with hydraulic oil. The primary and secondary oil pressures are regulated by separate oil pressure limiting valves (30, 40). At least one throttle valve (51) is arranged between the pump (20) and the output pipe (92) of the open hydraulic circuit, at a point where the pump volumetric flow can be influenced. The hydraulic emergency control allows a starting transmission ratio to be set in a low range when starting the vehicle, whereas a very small reduction ratio is selected at a high driving speed and at light throttle.Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1997Date of Patent: October 26, 1999Assignees: Robert Bosch GmbH, Van Doorne's Transmissie B.V.Inventors: Ewald Spiess, Hans Haecker, Joachim Luh, Peter Baeuerle, Rine Pelders, Wilhelmus J. M. van Wijk
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Patent number: 5967696Abstract: A powered concrete finishing trowel comprises a variable ratio drive train to power one or more revolving rotors. One or more internal combustion motors power two or more downwardly projecting rotors comprising blades that frictionally contact the concrete surface. The rotors are shaft driven by reduction gear boxes. By tilting the rotors steering forces are developed. A variable gear drive unit comprises a variable ratio pulley driven by the motor. A second pulley drives the gear box input shaft, with a drive belt entrained between the pulleys. A linear actuator projecting outwardly from a stationary mounting plate terminates at a bracket assembly whose opposite end is pivoted to a rigid stabilizer that structurally compliments the linear actuator, establishing a fulcrum action applied to the bracket center. The linear actuator deflects the bracket assembly to axially displace portions of the variable ratio pulley to change the effective pulley diameter.Type: GrantFiled: January 16, 1998Date of Patent: October 19, 1999Assignee: Allen Engineering CorporationInventors: J. Dewayne Allen, Timmy D. Guinn
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Patent number: 5961408Abstract: The proposal is for a device for controlling a CVT (3) driven by a drive unit (1) in which an emergency running unit is activated on the breakdown of the electronic control device (15). It sets a constant compression or power ratio between the primary (S1) and secondary (S2) pulleys.Type: GrantFiled: March 18, 1997Date of Patent: October 5, 1999Assignee: ZF Friedrichshafen AGInventors: Hubert Konig, Hans Peter Stoll, Ralf Vorndran
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Patent number: 5951421Abstract: A continuously variable transmission provided with a variator for adjusting the transmission ratio of the transmission and one or more hydraulic circuits for lubrication, cooling and transmission control, one or more pumps being installed for the hydraulic circuit. The transmission comprises at least one electric motor to give the transmission better sizing and an improved efficiency.Type: GrantFiled: September 23, 1996Date of Patent: September 14, 1999Assignee: Van Doorne's Transmissie B.V.Inventor: Bastiaan Andreas D'Herripon
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Patent number: 5944626Abstract: A hydraulic emergency control for a gear-ratio-dependent change in hydraulic fluid pressures in a first and second hydraulic bevel-gear axial adjuster of a continuously variable transmission (10), is provided in which a pump (1) supplies at least the piston chamber (17) of the second axial adjuster, and at least one downstream pressure limiting valve (40) limits the fluid pressure there and moreover from this supply, via a continuous path valve (20), supplies the piston chamber (13) of the first axial adjuster, and the continuous path valve (20) is controlled with the aid of a pressure differential acting on a throttle valve (39) that is downstream of the pump (1) and is integrated with a switching valve (30).Type: GrantFiled: October 6, 1997Date of Patent: August 31, 1999Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Ewald Spiess, Joachim Luh, Peter Baeuerle
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Patent number: 5941787Abstract: In a pulley working fluid (oil) passage arrangement for a belt-type continuously variable transmission having a V belt wound about a letter V-shaped groove formed with mutually opposing oblique surfaces of movable and stationary sheaves and a working fluid pressure cylinder chamber to which a working fluid pressure is supplied so as to move the movable sheave toward or away from the stationary sheave, thus a gear shift being varied, a first working fluid passage communicated with an axle chamber working fluid passage is extended in an axial direction of the axle member at an opposing surface thereof against the axle member and the movable sheave and a second working fluid passage having one end communicated with the first working fluid passage and the other end opened to a working fluid pressure cylinder chamber is extended along a radial direction of the axle member.Type: GrantFiled: January 13, 1998Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Nissan Motor Co., LtdInventors: Makoto Imaida, Kiyofumi Tanaka, Yusuke Kasuya, Masahiko Yamada
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Patent number: 5941786Abstract: Continuously variable transmission, in particular for a motor vehicle, provided with a primary pulley mounted on a primary shaft, a secondary pulley mounted on a secondary shaft, and a drive belt running over both pulleys, each pulley formed by two sheaves, one of which is movable axially relative to the other under the influence of a hydraulic cylinder, for setting the transmission ratio, a pumping unit with at least two pumps for delivering hydraulic medium to the hydraulic cylinders, and a control unit for controlling the pump delivery depending on the operating conditions of the transmission, includes a pumping unit with at least two pumps, the first of which serves as a booster pump for the second pump connected in series, and a switch valve, under the control of the control unit, fitted so that the two pumps can be switched over from series connection to parallel connection if the volume flow of the medium required by the transmission is greater than the available volume flow in the series connection.Type: GrantFiled: August 20, 1997Date of Patent: August 24, 1999Assignee: Van Doorne's Transmissie B.V.Inventors: Elias Van Wijk, Johannes Gerardus Ludovicus Maria Van Spijk
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Patent number: 5937729Abstract: A hydraulic emergency control system for a continuous looped gear type continuously variable transmission (10) includes first and second hydraulic beveled conical pulley axial actuators controlling a gear ratio. A pump supplies a first piston chamber (13) of said first axial actuator via a sensor valve (20), wherein the sensor valve (20) is controlled by a flow control valve (73) connected downstream of the pump (80). The pump (80) supplies a second piston chamber (17) of the second axial actuator, with a pressure relief valve (40) limiting fluid pressure in said second piston chamber. Fluid in the second piston chamber (17) is controlled as a function of the fluid pressure in the first piston chamber (13) via a control line (52, 113).Type: GrantFiled: November 4, 1997Date of Patent: August 17, 1999Assignee: Robert Bosch GmbHInventors: Ewald Spiess, Hans Haecker, Joachim Luh, Peter Baeuerle, Rine Pelders, Wilhelmus J. M. van Wijk
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Patent number: 5924944Abstract: A pulley assembly of a belt type continuously variable transmission having a stationary sheave, a moving sheave and a hydraulic actuator connected at an edge thereof with the moving sheave for controlling a groove width between the stationary sheave and the moving sheave comprises, an annular groove provided at the back face of the moving sheave and an annular projection provided on the bottom surface of the annular groove for regulating a plastic flow of the edge into a fork-shape when the edge is caulked into the annular groove. Thus constituted structure of the pulley assembly provides an enough connecting strength between the hydraulic actuator and the moving sheave with a small amount of caulking.Type: GrantFiled: January 7, 1997Date of Patent: July 20, 1999Assignee: Fuji Jukogyo Kabushiki KaishaInventor: Takenori Hashimoto