Patent ID: 7568992
Filing Date: 2009-08-04
Classification: F16H

Abstract:
1. A self adjusting positive engagement continuous variable transmission configured for operable connection to a machine bearing a load, said transmission comprising: a first stage assembly and a second stage assembly; said first stage assembly comprising a first stage power input means, a first stage power channeling means, and two first stage power output means, namely a low ratio first stage power output and a high ratio first stage power output; said first stage power input means being operably connected to said first stage power channeling means and being configured for applying power, in the form of rotational energy, to said first stage power channeling means; said first stage power channeling means being operably connected to said two first stage power output means and being configured for applying power, in the form of rotational energy, separately and at differing rotational rates, to each of said two first stage power output means; said second stage assembly comprising, two second stage power input means, namely a low ratio second stage power input means and a high ratio second stage power input means, a second stage power channeling means, and a second stage power output means; said low ratio second stage power input means being operably connected to said low ratio first stage power output means; said high ratio second stage power input means being operably connected to said high ratio first stage power output means; said two second stage power input means being operably connected to said second stage power channeling means for applying power, in the form of rotational energy, separately and at differing rotational rates to said second stage power channeling means; said second stage power channeling means being operably connected to said second stage power output means, which is operably connected to said machine bearing a load, said first stage and said second stage being configured to cooperate for delivering power, in the form of rotational energy, at continuously variable rotational speeds and torque values, according to the load on said machine; and a ratchet bearing in communication with at least one of said first stage power output means, wherein said ratchet bearing prevents reversal of the first stage power output means.