Inventors:
Michael Whiting - Roseau MN, US
Larry Howell - Orem UT, US
Robert Todd - Provo UT, US
Spencer Magleby - Provo UT, US
Mark Anderson - Lafayette IN, US
Nathan Rasmussen - Provo UT, US
International Classification:
F16H055/56, F16H063/00
US Classification:
474014000, 474012000, 474008000
Abstract:
A continuously variable transmission or clutch device () includes at least one pulley () rotatable on a pivot () and having a pair of adjustable sheaves () including a movable sheave () movable along the pivot. An ortho-planar compliant mechanism () is capable of elastic deformation and operatively coupled to the movable sheave to bias the movable sheave towards or away from the other sheave. The ortho-planar compliant mechanism includes a substantially flat configuration and is deflectable therefrom as the movable sheave moves. The ortho-planar compliant mechanism can include a center platform () disposed on the pivot and a plurality of arms () extending from the platform to distal ends () coupled to the movable sheave.