VariGlide Continuously Variable Planetary Transmission

Dana Holding Corporation announces new milestones in the development of VariGlide technology, a transmission design that incorporates continuously variable planetary (CVP) technology.

• Can be integrated into a variety of power paths to optimize transmission assembly, significantly reducing fuel consumption and maximizing performance
• Replaces torque converter in some transmission configurations to decouple engine speed from the vehicle’s travel or working speed
• Well suited for the rapid acceleration, deceleration and precise positioning required by material-handling applications
• Eliminates need for forward and reverse clutches while reducing overall engine speeds, allowing the engine to operate at its optimum efficiency level and reduce noise levels
• Offers projected fuel savings of up to 20% for a standard-sized forklift truck operating in a typical pick-and-place duty cycle
• Will be offered as a pre-assembled module providing a standard powersplit configuration for forklift truck transmissions
• Premium configuration optimized to supply further fuel efficiency and productivity gains in select Spicer powershift transmissions will be available
• Suited to optimize the productivity of 1.5- to 3-tonne forklift trucks
• Provides power-path flexibility through a unique variator design configuration
• Set of spinning planets is fitted between an input disc driven by the engine and an output disc that transfers power from the variator to downstream transmission components
• As power enters the input disc, the planets tilt on their axes and change ratios, depending on engine demands and controller input
• To efficiently transfer torque, a thin layer of traction fluid flows between the planets
• When compressed, this traction fluid becomes momentarily rigid, allowing the torque to transfer between the planets and discs without slipping
• Numerous power paths and no abrupt ratio changes enables an infinite number of gear ratios for improved shifting, driver comfort, durability, scalability, and efficiency when compared to conventional CVTs
• In addition to forklift trucks, it is optimal for compact front-end loaders, skid steer loaders and compact utility tractors