CONTINUOUSLY VARIABLE TRANSMISSION RATIO DEVICE WITH OPTIMIZED PRIMARY PATH POWER FLOW

摘要

A continuously variable transmission ratio device with optimized system efficiency by maximizing power flows through the primary power flow paths. The device is constructed from more than one fixed gear ratio device and controlled via a variator that is connected between the fixed gear ratio devices. The construction and operation of the continuously variable transmission ratio device is such that it provides a wide range of speed ratios between connected input and output devices and optimized system efficiency subject to constraints on the power flow through the variator. This continuously variable transmission ratio device can be used effectively in energy generation applications where optimized system efficiency entails coupling input and output devices with varying speed ratios for optimal component efficiency.