Apparatus for producing a constant rotational speed from a variable speed input.

摘要

There is disclosed method and apparatus for converting a variable rotational input speed to a predetermined substantially constant rotational output speed, for purposes in which a constant speed is necessary e.g. the driving of a constant frequency A.C. generator. The apparatus comprises an epicyclic gear having an input member 14 arranged to be driven by a power source 1 at a rotational input speed which may vary, an output member 16 from which predetermined substantially constant rotational output speed can be taken, and a reaction member (sun wheel S). Monitoring means 30, 31 is arranged to respond to fluctuations from a predetermined value in the rotational speed of the input member, and control means 9, 21 is coupled with the reaction member and controllable by the monitoring means in order to vary the relative rotation between the reaction member and the other members of the epicyclic gear. Thus, the monitoring means and the control means serve to maintain a substantially constant predetermined output member when fluctuation occurs in the speed of the input member.