Modelling of loss mechanisms in a pushing metal V-belt continuously variable transmission. Part 3: Belt slip losses

Abstract

The power transmission efficiency of continuously variable transmissions (CVTs) based on the pushing metal belt is acknowledged to be lower than that of discrete ratio alternatives. This tends to negate the potential fuel economy benefits that are obtained by improved engine/load matching with a CVT. This series of three papers details an investigation into the loss mechanisms that occur within the belt drive as a first step to obtaining improvements in efficiency.

This third paper follows on from two previous papers in which an analysis was performed modelling the torque losses that occur due to relative motion between the bands and segments of the belt, and between the pulleys and the belt due to pulley deflection effects. It describes additional experimental work, measuring the belt-slip speed tangentially about both of the pulleys in the variator. Additional loss models are proposed beyond those discussed in Parts 1 and 2 to describe the belt-slip phenomena, based on existing theory proposed by others. The analysis produced in this paper is validated against a range of experimental data and additionally through its close interaction with the torque-loss and torque-force distribution models proposed in Parts 1 and 2. The work takes into account new findings in other research and changes in the design of the current metal V-belt.