Power split continuously variable transmission systems with high efficiency

Abstract

Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) have developed notably in different applications over the past years. This is especially true in the automobile field because of advantages in terms of car handling and efficiency on urban roads. In this work an original functional solution of a power split CVT system is described. The proposed solution allows the generation of a power flow without recirculation. Kinetic characteristics of single-component devices are obtained and the power split CVT system's efficiency is determined by considering how the efficiency of the component devices changes as a function of operating conditions. The advantages for the power split CVT system are therefore shown in terms of power and efficiency in comparison with the single CVT.