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Magnetorheological Fluid-Based Continuously Variable Transmission

Award Information
Agency: Department of Defense
Branch: Army
Contract: DAAD17-01-C-0012
Agency Tracking Number: A002-2129
Amount: $119,885.00
Phase: Phase I
Program: SBIR
Solicitation Topic Code: N/A
Solicitation Number: N/A
Timeline
Solicitation Year: N/A
Award Year: 2001
Award Start Date (Proposal Award Date): N/A
Award End Date (Contract End Date): N/A
Small Business Information
161 First Street
Cambridge, MA 02142
United States
DUNS: 157257502
HUBZone Owned: No
Woman Owned: No
Socially and Economically Disadvantaged: No
Principal Investigator
 James Goldie
 Program Manager
 (617) 349-0821
 goldie@satc.com
Business Contact
 L. Lesster
Title: General Manager
Phone: (617) 349-0927
Email: lesster@satc.com
Research Institution
N/A
Abstract

A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is proposed that utilizes magnetorheological (MR) fluids. Using a typical MR fluid with a saturation yield stress of 70 kPa at 1600 Oe, it appears feasible to design a 60 hp CVT within the desired volumetricfootprint: 3-inch axial length and 10-inch diameter. Initially, the Phase I will investigate the tradeoffs between the various possible approaches for the MR fluid-based CVT, in order to select the most promising concept. The effort will then proceed todevelopment of an optimum design for the selected concept. The design effort will address issues such as production and shaping of the activating magnetic field, viscous losses in non-activated regions of the MR fluid, overall efficiency, stresses incritical elements, and sealing of the MR fluid. We will conclude the program with testing on a representative small-scale prototype that incorporates the critical features and addresses the risks of the proposed MR fluid CVT.A compact, efficientcontinuously variable transmission (CVT) with high rpm capability offers improved fuel economy, reduced vehicle weight, reduced engine torque/speed demands, and reduced vehicle emissions. Such a CVT will also benefit products and equipment where there isvariable-speed mechanical power transmission.

* Information listed above is at the time of submission. *

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