Introduction to Continuously Variable
Transmission (CVT).
AIM
• To introduce the CVT transmission type and to observe its functionality
• By the end of this practical work, a student should be able to:
v Have a detailed understanding about the working principle of a CVT gearbox.
v Know the differences, advantages and disadvantages of CVT over other transmission
methods.
v Calculate and be more familiarized with gear ratio calculations and its effects.
APPARATUS
Torque converter
Driven pulley
CVT belt
Driving pulley (Push belt)
Figure 1: CVT gearbox
Figure 2: Cross section of a CVT Push belt
INTRODUCTION
Continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) are capable of adjusting smoothly between any
number of gear ratios. This is in contrast to standard manual gearboxes which have a limited
number of preset quotients and suddenly swap from one to another. Single-speed, non-shifting,
or continuously variable transmissions are also referred to as CVTs. The non-shifting
characteristic allows for unprecedented flexibility where constant angular velocity is kept
regardless of the output speed. Besides, CVTs allow smooth acceleration and better fuel
economy.
Although recently introduced with great advancements in efficiency, CVTs were originally
patented by Daimler and Benz back in 1886. In 1910, CVTs gained recognition when Zenit
introduced its model that was so efficient that it got banned from hill-climbing competitions. In
the late 1980s, Subaru helped to popularise those types of gearboxes. Most automobile producers
now produce at least one vehicle equipped with a continuously variable transmission system
nowadays. Unlike conventional transmissions which rely on complicated arrangements to change
among fixed velocities, a majority of CVT systems use pulley mechanisms. A drive chain
connects clutches on each pulley making up this system.
The CVT changes the gear ratio by changing the diameter of the belt as its clutches adjust their
position enabling smooth changes to be made to various gears.
THEORY
The ratio of the driven or output gear's teeth to the driver's or input gear's teeth is known as the
"gear ratio." When the input and output shafts are coupled by a gear train, it is used to determine
the output shaft's speed and torque.
So if the angular velocity of the mating gears are constant,
Gear ratio
N1 and N2 = Gear speed in RPM for driver and driven gears
d1 and d2 = Driver and driven gear diameters
T1 and T2 = Number of teeth on driver and driven gears
PROCEDURE
1. The main power to the apparatus has been switched on, and the air compressor has been
plugged in.
2. The air compressor and the VFD of the motor of the CVT apparatus have been switched on.
3. The air compressor has been waited for until it automatically shut off (indicating that the
needed air pressure has been generated).
4. The switch on the VFD has been rotated, and a lower RPM value has been given to the drive
pulley.
5. The pressure on the pulleys’ moving cones has been controlled using the pneumatic valve
and joystick actuator, and the required conditions on the pulleys in the gearbox have been
simulated. The conditions are as follows:
v The minimum diameter on the drive pulley and maximum on the driven pulley have
been achieved.
v The same diameter on both pulleys has been achieved.
v The maximum diameter on the drive pulley and minimum on the driven pulley have
been achieved.
6. The RPM values of each pulley have been obtained using the tachometer in each situation.
7. Steps 4, 5, and 6 have been repeated by giving a higher RPM value (2x the lower RPM) to
the drive pulley.
8. The RPM of the reduction gear (differential gear) has been obtained using the tachometer.
CALCULATION
1. H
Low RPM G.R,
𝑁!
𝐺. 𝑅 =
𝑁"
#!$
= !#%
= 2.29
At Low RPM
Situation G.R
A 2.29
B 0.963
C 0.638
At High RPM
Situation G.R
A 2.30
B 0.971
C 0.667
From above data we can see at Low RPM and High RPM gear ration approximately equal. If get
theoretically data at Low RPM and High RPM gear ration should equal. But when it comes to
practically data will some small difference.
2. H
• Reduction G.R using No. of teeth
No. of teeth of the reduction gear system pinion = 17
No. of teeth of the reduction gear system crown = 66
&&
Reduction G.R = !$
= 3.88
• Reduction G.R using RPM
RPM of the reduction gear system pinion = 503
RPM of the reduction gear system crow = 129
'(#
Reduction G.R = !")
= 3.89
From above data we can see reduction G.R equal in RPM and No. of teeth
DISCUSSION
1. Describe other types of CVT transmissions.
• Toroidal CVT: Uses a toroidal roller to control transmission ratio.
Advantages: High torque capacity, compact size, and efficiency.
Disadvantages: Complex design and higher manufacturing costs.
• Hydrostatic CVT: Controls transmission ratio using hydraulic pressure.
Advantages: Smooth operation, high torque capacity, adaptability.
Disadvantages: Can be less efficient due to hydraulic losses.
• Ratcheting CVT: Uses interlocking ratchets and pawls for variable gear ratio.
Disadvantages: Limited torque capacity, noise and vibration.
• Epicyclic CVT: Uses planetary gear sets for variable transmission ratio.
• Friction-Disk CVT: Uses friction-based system for variable transmission ratio.
2. Briefly describe and give examples for the types of belts used in pulley type CVTs.
Steel-Belted Belt:
• Description: This type of belt consists of a steel belt core encased in a rubber or
elastomer outer layer. The steel core provides strength and durability, while the outer
layer ensures smooth operation and protects the core.
• Examples: Commonly found in automotive applications, especially in high-performance
vehicles and heavy-duty machinery.
Rubber-Belted Belt:
• Description: These belts are primarily made of rubber or elastomer, with reinforcement
layers of fabric or steel. They offer good flexibility and are often used in applications
where noise and vibration reduction are important.
• Examples: Used in various industrial and consumer applications, such as lawnmowers,
snowblowers, and power tools
3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of CVT transmissions.
Advantages:
• Smooth Acceleration: CVTs provide seamless acceleration without distinct gear shifts.
The engine can operate at its optimal RPM, resulting in smoother performance.
• Fuel Efficiency: By maintaining the engine at an efficient RPM, CVTs often improve fuel
economy compared to traditional automatic transmissions.
• Compact Design: CVTs are lightweight and take up less space, making them suitable for
compact vehicles.
• Infinite Gear Ratios: Unlike fixed-gear transmissions, CVTs can continuously adjust the
gear ratio, allowing for optimal power delivery across various driving conditions.
Disadvantages:
• Lack of “Feel”: Some drivers miss the sensation of gear changes, which CVTs lack due
to their continuous operation.
• Belt Wear: The belts or chains in CVTs can wear out over time, requiring replacement.
• Limited Torque Handling: High-torque applications (e.g., heavy-duty trucks) may strain
CVTs.
• Noise and Vibration: At high RPMs, CVTs can produce a droning noise, which some find
unpleasant.
4. Discuss about the mechanism of incorporating the triptronic gearing function into a CVT
gearbox.
Tiptronic Function in Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) Gearbox
• CVT operates using variable-diameter pulleys connected by a belt or chain.
• Adjusting these pulleys allows CVT to change the effective gear ratio smoothly and
continuously.
Tiptronic Function in Conventional Transmissions:
• In traditional automatic transmissions, Tiptronic or manual shifting allows the driver to
manually select gears.
• This is typically done via paddle shifters or moving the gear lever into a manual gate.
Incorporation into a CVT:
• Tiptronic function creates "virtual" gear steps in a CVT.
• The control unit interprets and adjusts the pulleys to achieve the corresponding virtual gear
ratio.
• The Transmission Control Unit (TCU) in a CVT with Tiptronic functionality is more advanced
than in a regular CVT.
Driving Experience:
• Tiptronic function gives the driver more control over the vehicle's power delivery.
• Simulated gear changes in Tiptronic mode provide a sportier driving experience.
• Manufacturers can tune the virtual ratios to suit the vehicle's character.
Advantages and Disadvantages:
• Provides benefits of a CVT while giving the driver manual control.
• Enhances driving enjoyment and flexibility in varying driving conditions.
CONCLUSION
During the practical implementation of a CVT, several challenges and situations might arise.
Here are some common issues and potential solutions:
1. Belt Slippage:
Problem: The belt may slip on the pulleys, leading to power loss and inconsistent
performance.
Solutions:
Ensure proper belt tension.
Use high-quality, durable belts.
Check for any foreign debris or damage on the pulleys or belt.
Consider using a belt tensioner or automatic belt tensioning system.
2. Noise and Vibration:
Problem: CVTs can generate noise and vibration, especially at certain operating conditions.
Solutions:
Use high-quality components and proper assembly techniques.
Optimize belt tension and alignment.
Implement vibration damping measures, such as isolating the CVT from the vehicle's
structure.
Consider using advanced noise-reducing materials and designs.
3. Durability and Reliability:
Problem: CVTs can be prone to wear and tear, especially under heavy loads or harsh
operating conditions.
Solutions:
Use high-quality materials and components.
Follow proper maintenance schedules, including regular inspections and fluid changes.
Consider using advanced lubrication systems to reduce wear and extend the CVT's lifespan.
Successfully demonstrated the operation of a CVT.Observed the continuous variation of the gear
ratio.Evaluated the performance of the CVT in terms of efficiency, smoothness, and power
delivery.Encountered minor issues with belt alignment and tension.Observed slight variations in
noise levels at different operating conditions.Successfully addressed and resolved any
encountered problems.
REFERENCE
[1]
“What is Tiptronic. How it works. Pros and Cons of Tiptronic
Transmission,” go4trans.com. https://go4trans.com/technical-transmission-general-
articles/what-is-tiptronic.-how-it-works.-pros-and-cons-of-tiptronic-transmission/
[1]
The GearShifters Team, “What Is Volkswagen Tiptronic Transmission -
GearShifters,” GearShifters, Aug. 24, 2022.
https://gearshifters.org/volkswagen/what-is-volkswagen-tiptronic-transmission/
(accessed Aug. 27, 2024).
[1]
“MINI - Automatics - CVT or Tiptronic? | Motoring discussion | Back Room Forum |
Honest John,” Honestjohn.co.uk, 2024.
https://www.honestjohn.co.uk/forum/post/index.htm?t=76193 (accessed Aug. 27,
2024).
[1]
“Continuously variable transmission,” Wikipedia, Apr. 10, 2020.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Continuously_variable_transmission
[1]
Yousef, “Continuously Variable Transmission [Working and Uses] PDF,” The Engineers
Post, Jun. 22, 2024. https://www.theengineerspost.com/continuously-variable-
transmission/ (accessed Aug. 27, 2024).
[1]
W. Harris, “How CVTs Work,” HowStuffWorks, Apr. 27, 2005.
https://auto.howstuffworks.com/cvt.htm
