Fundamentals of Continuously Variable Transmission Technology Webinar
I.D. # WB1002 Duration 4 Hours
The technology of continuously variable transmissions spans belts (both 'push' and 'pull'), 'disc-on-wheel', and toroidal. All common CVT technologies rely on friction, and typically require special fluids for optimum operation. CVT technology is one of a core of technologies commonly employed when smooth transition from one speed ratio to another is required and when powertrain system optimization relies on precise ratio control. This webinar will highlight the various mainstream CVT technologies as they apply to automotive applications – fundamental operational principals, the reliance on friction as the primary means to transmit power, and the specific characteristics of the common fluids used in these types of transmissions.

This webinar will provide those with a basic understanding of automotive transmission operation and components the fundamentals of continuously variable transmission technology, its application to the automotive marketplace, and the significance of this technology as it applies to improvements in powertrain efficiency and affectivity. You will also receive insights into the various types of CVT systems, review their relative differences from a 'theory of operation' point of view, and as a function of their core components. Further, Dr. McVea will explore the versatility and operator satisfaction that vehicles equipped with CVT systems can provide as well as some of the limitations to the core technology and limits on practical implementation.
Learning Objectives
By connecting with this webinar you will be able to:
  • Identify, describe, and explain what continuously variable transmission (CVT) technology is, how it works, and what are the various types and underlying functional concepts of this transmission technology
  • Explain the technical, operational, and financial benefits of CVT technology to the OEM, vehicle service personnel and owner/operators
  • Compare and contrast the function of CVT-equipped vehicles versus vehicles with simple manual or automatic transmissions
  • Describe all the various manifestations and configurations of CVT technology when applied to actual and/or conceptual transmission systems of today
  • Compare and contrast system benefits, limitations and practical consideration of adopting CVT technology
Who Should Attend
This webinar will benefit anyone involved in the design, analysis, development, service, customer support or sales of automotive transmission and/or powertrain components and systems. The material covered in this webinar should be considered a core adjunct to your current knowledgebase. The value of this webinar also extends to anyone involved in the vehicle powertrain design and/or application of the technology.
Prerequisites
A basic understanding of automotive transmission technology and a BS in mechanical engineering or a related field is recommended.
Seminar Content
Session 1
  • Step-less Transmission Technology/Continuously Variable Transmissions
    • Theoretical framework of operation
    • The friction model
    • Fundamentals of power transmission based on friction
    • Developmental history
  • Toroidal Drive Technology
    • Theory of operation
    • Main components
    • Benefits and limitation of the technology
Session 2
  • Belt Driven Technology
    • 'Push' versus 'pull'
    • Theory of operation
    • Main components
    • Benefits and limitation of the technology
  • CVT Technology as it Augments Hybrid Powertrain Models
  • Control and Command
  • Commercialization of a CVT
    • Optimum configuration
    • Performance
    • Vehicle fuel consumption
    • Cost/weight/packaging
Instructor(s): W. Mark McVea
Mark McVeaDr. William Mark McVea, P.E., is currently Chief Technology Officer for Torvec, Inc., an industry leader in the design and development of patented powertrain engineering technology used primarily in the automotive industry. He is also President and Principal Engineer of KBE+, Inc. where Dr. McVea and his team design and develop complete powertrains for automotive and off-highway vehicles. His prior positions include Professor of Vehicle Dynamics and Powertrain Sciences in the Mechanical Engineering Department at the Rochester Institute of Technology and adjunct professor at Purdue University in their Automotive Sciences Department. He was also formerly a manager of the CAE group within a tier-one powertrain supplier to global automotive markets, a consulting engineer in vehicle dynamics with Gear Consultants, Inc., and a project manager of traction systems for off-highway vehicles with Clark-Hurth International.

Dr. McVea has published extensively on the topics of transmission systems, automated design assistant systems, knowledge systems and knowledge based engineering in general. He also holds or is listed as co-inventor on numerous patents related to mechanical power transmissions. Dr. McVea holds a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from the Rochester Institute of Technology, a Ph.D. in Design Engineering from Purdue University and is a licensed Professional Engineer.

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NOTE: The course presentation will be recorded and made available for 30 days to those who register by the deadline.
Fees: $405 SAE Members*: $324 - $365
* The appropriate SAE Member discount will be applied through the Registration process.  Discounts vary according to level of membership: Elite Member 20%; Premium Member 15%; Classic Member 10%
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