Algirdas G Nasvytis

US Patent:

41280164, Dec 5, 1978

Filed:

Jul 6, 1976

Appl. No.:

5/702434

Inventors:

Algirdas L. Nasvytis - Cleveland OH

International Classification:

F16H 1302

US Classification:

74206

Abstract:

An inexpensive, lightweight, hybrid transmission is provided in which a high speed rotating-input sun member drives at least two rows of rollers including a first row of intermediate circumferentially positioned rollers by way of a pure friction drive contact. The first intermediate row similarly drives a second row of circumferentially mounted rollers via a pure friction drive contact. The second or subsequent row rollers are mounted on fixed axes by straddle bearings and the individual support shafts thereof are provided with small diameter output gears with positive teeth for cooperation with a toothed output ring or output bull gear. The system provides quiet and efficient force transfer through the friction drive surfaces and, at the same time, provides high torque transmission through the relatively slowly rotating positive drive gears. Automatically adjusting preload is provided by way of free-floating, non-torque-transmitting annular rings which automatically provide maximization of load distribution between the rollers.