Comparison of Operational Characteristics in Power Split Continuously Variable Transmissions

Continuously variable transmissions (CVT) provide seamless shifting in vehicle operation, allowing the engine to operate at a nominal speed range resulting in lower fuel consumption and emissions. However, typical CVTs suffer from either low shaft-to-shaft efficiency or low torque handling capabilities. The power split CVT combines the variability of the CVT with the efficiency of a mechanical transmission, providing potential benefits for both on road and off road vehicles. By modifying the architecture and layout of a power split transmission, the characteristics and maximum speed of the vehicle drive cycle can be altered. This paper will present a comparison between the different architectures of power split transmissions utilizing hydraulic units as the variators, with a focus on efficiency, control effort, and system complexity. Applications based on the characteristics of the specific transmission architectures will be suggested.