| 摘要 |
A continuously variable transmission (CVT) system, which turns the rear wheels of a lawn mower or similar vehicle at different speeds in a coordinated method with the front steering wheels in order to achieve the best turning radius (including a tight or zero turn radius, if desired) under most conditions. The system comprises two stages: the first stage comprising a Fixed Center Distance CVT pulley system, and the second stage comprising dual CVTs (e.g., left and right) that input into dual gear reducers (left and right), which are mechanically connected to the rear wheels. The second stage dual CVTs (left and right) are synchronized with the steering wheel, thus achieving different rear wheel speeds and/or directions based on the steering wheel position. |
| 主权项 |
1. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) system for a small vehicle with an engine and engine shaft, a steering wheel mechanically connected to a steering plate, and a right and left rear wheel, comprising:
a primary stage comprising a fixed center distance (FCD) pulley system with at least two pulleys, a first primary stage pulley and a second primary stage pulley, wherein the first primary stage pulley is mechanically connected to the engine or engine shaft, and the first and second stage pulleys are connected by a first belt; and a secondary stage mechanically connected to said primary stage, said secondary stage comprising an adjustable center distance (ACD) pulley system with at least four pulleys arranged in right and left pairs, each pair comprising a front and back pulley connected by a right or left second belt, wherein the back pulley of each pair is mechanically connected to the right or left rear wheels of the vehicle, respectively; wherein the pitch diameters of some or all of the pulleys in the secondary stage are changed in response to rotation of the steering plate, causing one of the rear wheels to speed up and the other rear wheel to slow down in a coordinated manner. |
