Variable-ratio centrifugal- supercharger

The variable ratio centrifugal supercharger is a centrifugal supercharger that is able to change its internal ratio during operation, allowing the supercharger impeller rpm to operate independently of engine rpm.

Description

There are various designs for a variable ratio centrifugal, including a continuously variable planetary (CVP) design, and a continuously variable transmission (CVT) with variable diameter pulley (VDP) design. While such designs have been successful in other mechanical uses, commercial success in a supercharger application has proven elusive over the decades.[1]

History

The basic concept of a variable ratio centrifugal supercharger has existed for decades, with patent applications for aircraft and automotive applications dating back to 1938.[2] As of 2012, at least three companies were developing designs for automotive applications.[3]

A supercharger with a CVT VDP design was introduced to the automotive aftermarket in 2013, while the CVP design has not been introduced for supercharging but is available for ratio control in bicycles and automotive accessories[4]

ProCharger i-1

The only production variable-ratio centrifugal supercharger currently available is the ProCharger i-1® supercharger. This design was introduced at an automotive trade show in 2013, where it was awarded runner-up for best new performance product.[5] This variable-ratio supercharger is available for automotive and truck applications, and can be controlled from inside the cockpit with a touchscreen display.

References

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