Dutchmen Ditch the Gears in Gearboxes

Four Dutch inventors have patented a gearless automotive transmission they say requires no maintenance or lubricants.

The so-called Controlled Rotation System developed by Parts Services Holland Lt. in Eindhoven uses two variable-diameter discs and a strong belt to provide propulsion and ratios.

A digitally operated hydraulic oil pump and slide devices create different drive ratios by varying the diameter of the wheel-like discs by extending and contracting the length of their spokes.

The four-year-old company's first automotive prototype measures just 12 inches by 9 inches by 7 inches. Developers insist their invention is not comparable to existing continuously variable transmissions already on the road.

The inventors developed the transmission initially to replace the chain and sprockets on a bicycle. They say the same design could be used in cars, windmills, ships, motorcycles and other types of machinery.