Design of a Series-Type Independently Controllable Transmission Mechanism

This study proposes a design of transmission mechanism which is referred to as a series-type independently controllable transmission (ICT). The series-type ICT is an alternative form of the parallel-types proposed in the former researches. The series-type ICT can serve as a continuously or an infinitely variable transmission mechanism, and it can also produce a required angular output velocity that can be independently manipulated by a controller and not affected by the angular velocity of the input shaft. The series-type ICT mechanism is composed of two planetary gear trains and two transmission-connecting members. Kinematic and dynamic characteristics of the ICT mechanism are analyzed and their analytical equations are derived for application in this study.