Variable-ratio transmission

摘要

The invention is a variable-ratio transmission comprising a base having an axis of rotation to which an object can be attached and a plurality of pulley assemblies slideably attached to the base along radials. Each pulley assembly comprises one or more pulleys, a pulley shaft, and a pulley transport. The pulleys of a pulley assembly are rotatably attached to the pulley shaft and are rotatable in only one direction about the pulley shaft. The pulley shaft is attached to the pulley transport. The pulley transport is slideably attached to the base along a radial. The pulley assemblies are so arranged that the plurality of pulleys can engage at least one encircling belt or chain. An actuating system applies radial forces to the plurality of pulley transports for the purpose of maintaining the pulley assemblies in fixed radial positions or moving the pulley assemblies to other radial positions. The actuating system is controlled by an external entity.