In 1946 Speed Selector, Inc., of Cleveland, began manufacturing a continuously-variable-speed transmission intended for powering light machinery, up to 2 HP. B. F. Goodrich Co. marketed the device as part of its line of power-transmission products, which consisted of rubber V-belts, sheaves, and related components. The transmission was marketed as the Variable-V-Planetary Speed Selector. Eventually there were three sizes, with maximum powers of 1, 2, and 3 HP respectively, listing for $228, $252, and $352.

By 1952 the Variable-V-Planetary Speed Selectors were being sold by a discounter at about 35% of the original prices.

Information Sources

• August 1946 Rubber Age.

  Variable-V-Planetary Speed Selector

  A new development of planetary motion in which two standard cross-section v-belts and four variable pitch pulleys provide infinite ratio, stepless speed from full down through zero and into full reverse at constant torque of two-horsepower capacity has been jointly announced by Speed Selector, Inc., Cleveland, and the B. F. Goodrich Company, Akron, Ohio. The Cleveland company designed and developed the new V-belt control, known as the Variable-V-Planetary Speed Selector, while Goodrich will merchandise the product along with its transmission lines.

  A slight change in the variable pitch pulleys of the Speed Selector brings a large change in output speed through the multiplying action of the planetary mounted on the motor or driven shaft of the machine on which it is used, eliminating need for special mounting brackets, or extra guards. In operation, the Variable-V-Planetary Speed Selector system compares the ratios of two V-belt drives and applies the difference in speed to output shafts. With the ratios equal the difference in speed and output shaft speed is zero. If the ratio of one drive is greater than the other the output shaft rotates forward at a speed proportionate to the difference in ratios. If the ratio is less the output shaft operates in reverse. Speeds from 400 r.p.m. to zero, forward and reverse, can be obtained. All changes are made by hand control wheel, which alters the pitch diameter of the center pulleys so that as one is increased the other is decreased and the change imparted to the outer pulleys by the wedging action of the V-belts. It is mounted on thee input shaft of the driven machine by a tapered collet. The wheel thus controls diameter of all four pulleys witout use of springs or complex linkages.

  Frame construction of the Variable-V-Planetary is of lightweight aluminum with cast iron sheaves for long wear. Prelubricated, plastic seal, ball type bearings eliminate dirt and lubrication problems. Shafts and other wearing parts are hardened hardened and ground to insure precision fits and long life. Natural ventilation is created by the revolving assembly inside the aluminum housing. The complete speed range is covered by four and one half turns of the control wheel, with remote controls available.

  Advantages cited are: Increased production by providing correct speed for each job; high efficiency; constant torque; infinite speed ratios in either direction; speed changes, without stopping the machine, by finger tip control; easily installed, either horizontal, vertical, or inclined; sturdy construction; easily designed into new equipment; space saving through compact design, using standard motors and remotely controlled if desired.