Chludzinski, K., & Solomon, C. V. (2025, March), Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance  Paper presented at 2025 ASEE North Central Section  (NCS) Annual Conference, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia. 10.18260/1-2--54682

\bibitem{asee_peer_54682}
  Chludzinski, K., \& Solomon, C. V. (2025, March), \emph{Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance}
  Paper presented at 2025 ASEE North Central Section  (NCS) Annual Conference, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia.
  10.18260/1-2--54682

Kathryn Chludzinski and C. Virgil Solomon.  "Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance".  2025 ASEE North Central Section  (NCS) Annual Conference, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, 2025, March.  ASEE Conferences, 2025.  https://peer.asee.org/54682 Internet.  16 May, 2025

\bibitem{asee_peer_54682}
  Kathryn Chludzinski and C. Virgil Solomon.
  "Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance".
  \emph{2025 ASEE North Central Section  (NCS) Annual Conference, Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia, 2025, March}.
  ASEE Conferences, 2025.
  https://peer.asee.org/54682 Internet.  16 May, 2025

@INPROCEEDINGS{asee_peer_54682
author = "Kathryn Chludzinski and C. Virgil Solomon"
title = "Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance"
booktitle = "2025 ASEE North Central Section  (NCS) Annual Conference"
year = "2025"
month = "March"
address = "Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia"
publisher = "ASEE Conferences"
note = {https://peer.asee.org/54682}
number = {10.18260/1-2--54682}
}

TY  - CPAPER
AB  - A continuously variable transmission (CVT) is a type of transmission used commonly in small engine racing such as snowmobiling, go-karting, or in Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) Baja racing. The speed ratio in these systems constantly varies, which adapts well to varying course conditions such as frequent stops and starts, turns, and jumps. CVTs must be properly installed and tuned to reach their highest level of performance, which is a common difficulty for these complex systems.

A MATLAB code has been developed that characterizes the torque, horsepower, and shift profile of a Gaged GX9 CVT. Multiple tuning setups of the system are evaluated by defining primary and secondary springs, flyweights, and ramps. This predictive model may be used to select a tune for a vehicle and evaluate its performance without requiring extensive test time on a track. The numerical characterization has been validated experimentally, using an inertia dynamometer, Kohler CH440Pro 14HP engine, and DynoMiteTM analysis software. Theoretical comparison was completed using free body and kinetic diagrams of the forces acting in the system, which were entered into a MATLAB code.

This characterization is to be used as a laboratory for mechanical engineering students in the Dynamic Systems Modeling (DSM) class. The installation presents an opportunity for students to combine theoretical knowledge with hands-on learning. Students will learn the basics of CVT and its function and how to make minor adjustments to the system. Using Newton’s equations, students can compare data from the dynamometer to the theoretical model and can adjust the inertia parameters to predict the performance of a Baja car using the same CVT setup. An operator’s manual for the system and a laboratory handout have been created to aid in this exercise, focusing on safety and proper machine operation.
AU  - Kathryn Chludzinski
AU  - C. Virgil Solomon
CY  - Marshall University, Huntington, West Virginia
DA  - 2025/03/28
PB  - ASEE Conferences
TI  - Predictive Modelling of a Continuously Variable Transmission for Optimal Performance
UR  - https://peer.asee.org/54682
DO  - 10.18260/1-2--54682
ER  -