Continuously variable transmission

摘要

Disclosed embodiments are directed to components, subassemblies, systems, and/or methods for continuously variable transmissions (CVT). In one embodiment, a CVT has a number of spherical planets in contact with an idler. Various idler assemblies can be used to facilitate to improve durability, fatigue life, and efficiency of a CVT. In one embodiment, the idler assembly has two rolling elements having contact surfaces that are angled with respect to a longitudinal axis of the CVT. In some embodiments, a bearing is operably coupled between the first and second rolling elements. The bearing is configured to balance axial force between the first and second rolling elements. In one embodiment, the bearing is a ball bearing. In another embodiment, the bearing is an angular contact bearing. In yet other embodiments, needle roller bearings are employed.

主权项

1. A continuously variable transmission (CVT) having a longitudinal axis, the CVT comprising:
a plurality of traction planet assemblies arranged angularly about the longitudinal axis; a first carrier coupled to the each of the traction planet assemblies, the first carrier having a plurality of radially offset slots, the first carrier configured to guide the traction planet assemblies; an idler assembly in contact with each of the traction planets, the idler assembly located radially inward of each traction planet, the idler assembly having first and second rolling elements, wherein the first rolling element is provided with an extension configured to radially support the second rolling element, and wherein a contact surface on the first rolling element and a contact surface on the second rolling element are angled at an angle between 5 and 45 degrees with respect to the longitudinal axis of the CVT; and a bearing configured to support the first and second rolling elements.