Patent ID: 7217205

Claim:
A continuously variable transmission apparatus, comprising: a first continuously variable transmission stage connected in series with a second continuously variable transmission stage; said series connected continuously variable transmission stages having an input shaft and an output shaft; said output shaft positioned inline with said input shaft; a low level control system configured for providing clamping forces for torque transmission and shifting forces for operation of said apparatus; said low level control system configured to command a high level control system for operation of an engine or other prime mover in a vehicle; wherein said low level control system is configured such that an accelerator pedal and brake pedal of a vehicle commands said apparatus and not the engine or prime mover; wherein each said continuously variable transmission stage includes a control pulley and an idler pulley; wherein each said continuously variable transmission stage includes a single input line actuation mechanism for applying clamping pressure to its control pulley; and an idler pulley wheel configured to slide along a shaft such that said idler pulleys do not require an actuation mechanism.