Infinitely variable ratio transmission apparatus

Abstract

A variable ratio transmission apparatus for converting an input torque at a first RPM to an output torque at a second RPM includes a pair of driving discs disposed on an input drive shaft and in spaced parallel ralationship thereto, a pair of driven discs disposed on an output drive shaft and a continuous length of metal link chain extending around and in direct contact with each pair of discs so as to create a high frictional force at the discs and chain interface sufficient to transmit motion from the driving discs to the driven discs. The link chain is arranged as a continuously repeating pattern wherein each pattern includes three generally triangular link plates of a clustered configuration which are interconnected by pins disposed in a first row and a plurality of U-shaped drive members connected to the link plates by pins disposed in a second row. Each repeating pattern includes a pair of outside link plates connected to a pair of intermediate link plates which in turn are connected to a pair of inside link plates. In each repeating pattern each pin connecting together each set of two link plate pairs is disposed between and in direct contact with the edges of the third link plate pairs of two contiguous repeating patterns. The outwardly facing surfaces of each drive member are contoured so as to conform to the surface shape of the driving and driven discs such that the chain is able to move in and out according to disc spacing, thereby realizing different radii.