This week I'd like to raise your attention for a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) design, made by Sheepo.
It features a continuous transmission ratio that goes from 1:0,5 (minimum) to 1:2 (maximum).
A continuously variable transmission, is a transmission that can change steplessly through an infinite number of effective gear ratios between a maximum and minimum values.
The system consists usually of a conical pulley system connected through a belt element, and moving this element along the cones you can change the transmission ratio in infinite positions.
It was very ingenious the way Sheepo imagined to implement the conical elements and how he also replaced the belt (difficult to effectively with LEGO) with one tire.

Here the video that demonstrates how it was achieved with LEGO elements.
Below also the bottom view and the tire module, that let you better understand how does it works.
You may find additional information and images, at Sheepo's Garage blog, and from his Brickshelf folder.
For the step-by-step building instructions you may download from here.
To finish I'll let you with another smart transmission design by Sheepo. This time a modular Planetary gearbox.

More information, here.
7 comments:
Great system, it is fun to see that "If someone think about a system, another one think about the same at the same time"
I was thinking about this system but I tried to build it with a belt.
Good job with your CVT Sheepo.
Absolutely amazing!
ooow! the planetary tranny is nifty stuff! i just recently began working with epicyclic gearing in building a wagner remontoire. they're not nearly as intuitive as direct gearing, i'll tell you what! fortunately, wikipedia has an artcle that gives equations for the various arrangements. i'm so glad sheepo posted this, as i was unaware of the "power miners" annulus gear. i might get my 4-to-1 ratio afterall!
KEvron
TechyMind, on "De la théorie à la pratique", we have already realised the CVT transmission. But today, I no longer have the video, unfortunately.
Sheepo version is a bit cleaner than mine, but it is the same principle. ^^
....and google informs me that tb's have already posted on planetary gears.
i hate always being late to the party....
KEvron
@KEvron
LOL
It is always better to check first, indeed.
no blood, no foul.
KEvron
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