Some Conceptual Designs of Heavy Vehicle Continuously-Variable Transmissions

Continuously-variable transmissions are reviewed with an emphasis on heavy agricultural and construction equipment. Designs of split-torque hydromechanical transmissions are discussed. The combination of powershift and hydrostatic elements should provide comfortable, stepless shifting and the ability to allow the vehicle to operate at optimum engine and travel speeds. An integration of a continuously-variable transmission and differential steering is proposed for tracked vehicles.