Energy consumption in transmissions is becoming an increasingly important aspect in the development of new propulsion systems. Traditional gearboxes, in the case of vehicles, cannot ensure optimal utilization of the power source. Continuously Variable Transmissions (CVTs) are more efficient in this regard. These are often in the form of belt or toroidal CVTs, which have lower efficiencies due to torque transfer through friction. An option is the e-CVT, where a combination of two drivetrains regulates propulsion continuously, but this method requires the use of an electric motor.
Achieving seamless gear ratio changes using only mechanical means with maximum efficiency necessitates the use of gear transmissions. To address the question of achieving continuous gear ratio changes using gear mechanisms, we designed and analyzed a stepless gear drive. We examined the theoretical background of the crank mechanism and the mechanical rectifier, and dimensioned them. We calculated their kinematics and mechanical loads. We determined the range of gear ratios. We assessed the overall efficiency of the entire drive system. We created an assembly drawing and refined details by creating a 3D model.
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