Prediction Methodology for Traction Drive Characteristics of Half-Toroidal Variator System Available to Purchase

The traction characteristics of a half-toroidal variator system were quantitatively identified. The rheological characteristics of the traction fluid dependent on applied pressure, slip rate, and traction surface temperature were identified from experimental data and finite element analysis using a four-roller machine. Half-toroidal variator system operation should take into account a safety factor, so the variator M versus slip characteristic was clarified by combining a half-toroidal variator model with the identified traction fluid characteristics. This method enabled to quantify the variator M-slip characteristic and power transmission efficiency of a half-toroidal variator in advance, and also enabled visualization of the spinning behavior due to the traction surface frictional force.