Patent ID: 8496551
Filing Date: 2013-07-30
Classification: B23B,F16H,Y10T

Abstract:
1. A continuous variable clutch comprising: a first sheave member including a first central hub and a first conical-faced surface extending radially from the first central hub, the first central hub forming a cavity; a second sheave member including a second central hub and a second conical-faced surface extending radially from the second central hub, the second central hub of the second sheave member received in the cavity of the first central hub such that the first conical-faced surface of the first sheave member faces the second conical-faced surface of the second sheave member, the second central hub of the second sheave member further configured to move axially within the first central hub of the first sheave member based on an amount of torque on the continuous variable clutch to vary a gap distance between the first and second conical-faced surfaces, the first sheave member and the second sheave member further forming a central passage to receive an input shaft of a transmission; a biasing member having a first end and a second end, the first end of the biasing member positioned within the second central hub and applying a biasing force on the second central hub of the second sheave member; and a bias retaining cap having a surface configured and arranged to engage the second end of the biasing member, the bias retaining cap positioned outside of the second central hub of the second sheave member.