Configuration Analysis of a Spherical Traction Drive CVT/IVT

Infinitely variable transmission (IVT) characteristics are typically obtained by utilizing a planetary gear set in a split-power transmission configuration. The spherical traction CVT developed by Fallbrook Technologies is kinematically analogous to a variable planetary gear set. The combinations of multiple inputs, outputs, and different internally parallel architectures combine to create hundreds of CVT, IVT, and/or split-power configurations. The variable planetary configuration is inherently power dense and creates a compact, low cost IVT, potentially without the need for dual paths. The control of this novel variator is inherently stable because ratio control is independent of load.