Caterpillar Inc.
Variator-assisted transmission

Abstract:

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is provided, where the CVT has an input shaft drivable by an engine, and an output shaft connectable to a load. A variator has an input side connected to the input shaft, and an output side. The variator is adjustable so as to vary a transmission ratio between the input and output sides. A differential transmission has a first differential input element connected to the input shaft, a second differential input element connected to the output side of the variator, and first and second differential output elements. A range transmission has a first range input element, and at least one range output element connected to the output shaft. A first connecting component selectively connects the first differential output element to the first range input element. A second connecting component selectively connects the second differential output element to the first range input element. The first and second connecting components are located in a connecting space defined between the differential and range transmissions. A vehicle incorporating this CVT, and a method of operating the CVT are also provided.