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A new rolling traction CVT design based on spherical torque transfer components has been developed by Motion Technologies, LLC. Improved efficiencies and significantly improved power densities have been demonstrated. Ratio control of this CVT is very simple, in contrast with more complex controls required for other rolling traction type CVTs. Both the single cavity and dual cavity designs of the Motion CVT have coaxial input and output shafts. The input and/or output may also be offset to accommodate other automobile drivelines. These characteristics, combined with low manufacturing cost, make the Motion CVT a very reasonable option for automotive and other vehicle applications.

Infinitely variable transmission (IVT) characteristics are typically obtained by utilizing a planetary gear set in a split-power transmission configuration. The spherical traction CVT developed by Fallbrook Technologies is kinematically analogous to a variable planetary gear set. The combinations of multiple inputs, outputs, and different internally parallel architectures combine to create hundreds of CVT, IVT, and/or split-power configurations. The variable planetary configuration is inherently power dense and creates a compact, low cost IVT, potentially without the need for dual paths. The control of this novel variator is inherently stable because ratio control is independent of load.