Indirect Clamping Force Measurement Method Using Current Sensor for Electro-Mechanical Dual Acting Pulley Continuously Variable Transmission System

Abstract

This paper introduces an electro-mechanical dual acting pulley continuously variable transmission (EMDAP CVT) system and presents a method of measuring belt-pulley clamping force indirectly using a DC motor current sensor. The EMDAP CVT mainly consists of two movable primary (input) and secondary (output) pulley sheaves connected by metal pushing V-belt. Two DC motor’s actuation systems adjust the CVT ratio. Additionally, the secondary actuation system controls belt-pulley clamping force by adjusting the flatness of the spring discs placed at the back of each secondary pulley sheave to keep the belt tight and prevent belt slip. Ideally, a force sensor is used to measure the belt-pulley clamping force however the use of force sensor inside transmission gearbox is not feasible due to high temperature and oily environment. A viable solution for indirectly measuring the clamping force using current sensor for DC motor is proposed. Since the DC motor actuates the movable pulleys to clamp the belt, the relationship between the DC motor current and belt-pulley clamping force can then be investigated experimentally. The results will give positive impact on precisely controlling belt-pulley clamping force of EMDAP CVT using current sensor which is relatively simpler and less expensive than force sensor.