What are the main components of a continuously variable transmission?
4 Answers
The components of a continuously variable transmission: The transmission contains parallel shafts, an input shaft, a driving pulley shaft, a driven pulley shaft, and a main transmission shaft. The input shaft and driving pulley shaft are arranged in a straight line with the engine crankshaft, consisting of a sun gear, planetary gears, and a planetary carrier. More details are as follows: 1. The driving pulley shaft and driven pulley shaft are each composed of pulleys with movable and fixed wheel faces, connected by a steel belt. The driving pulley shaft includes the driving pulley, reverse brake, and forward clutch, while the driven pulley shaft includes the driven pulley, starting clutch, and intermediate driven gear integrated with the parking gear. The main transmission shaft consists of the main reducer driving gear and intermediate driven gear. 2. Working principle: The belt is wrapped around two conical pulleys, and the outer diameter of the pulleys is continuously varied by hydraulic pressure. During startup, the driving pulley diameter becomes the smallest, while the driven pulley becomes the largest, achieving a high transmission ratio. 3. As vehicle speed increases and various sensor signals change, the computer control system determines the hydraulic pressure controlling the two pulleys, continuously changing their diameters to achieve seamless shifting. Due to material limitations in the past, the belt between the conical pulleys could only withstand limited tension and torque, restricting its use to small-displacement motorcycles.
I find the core components of a continuously variable transmission quite fascinating. It mainly consists of an input shaft and output shaft, a pulley system—including a driving pulley and a driven pulley, a steel belt or chain, and an electronic control unit. The input shaft receives power from the engine, while the output shaft transmits it to the wheels. The key feature is the variable diameter of the pulleys, with the steel belt moving between them to alter the gear ratio, enabling seamless acceleration. The control unit monitors speed, oil temperature, and other parameters, adjusting the pulley width in real time. When I worked on cars, I noticed that a hydraulic system aids lubrication, and changing the oil is crucial because belt wear affects longevity. Modern versions also incorporate sensors to enhance fuel efficiency and smooth driving, while material upgrades have made components more durable, reducing failure points.
As an average car owner, I find driving a CVT car incredibly smooth. It mainly consists of an input shaft connected to the engine, an output shaft transmitting power to the wheels, a pulley set including primary and secondary pulleys, a steel belt for transmission, and a control module. The pulley changes its width, altering the position of the steel belt, which eliminates the jerky feeling common in manual transmissions. The control unit determines the ratio based on throttle input, and computerized management simplifies operation. I believe the lubrication system is essential, and regularly changing the specialized oil protects the belt. Once, there was an unusual noise, and the technician said it was due to pulley wear. However, the core components are very reliable. With proper maintenance, the car runs smoothly, comfortably, and fuel-efficiently.
When doing DIY projects, I often disassemble CVTs for fun. They basically consist of an input shaft, output shaft, two variable pulleys, a steel belt, and a control unit. The pulley width is adjustable, with the steel belt or chain shifting in between; the control unit uses sensors and microprocessors to calculate ratios in real time. For self-maintenance, it's important to check belt tension and fluid levels, using only specified oil types when changing. Pulleys and bearings tend to accumulate dust and need cleaning; the design is simple with smooth shifting, but be cautious of overheating which can damage the belt.
