A 3D-printed ratcheting continuously variable transmission (CVT) makes an intricate mechanism easier to see and handle—but it is a demonstration model, not a proven vehicle transmission. Its creator, known as Gear Down for What, said he had devised a similar idea as a teenager before discovering that related transmission designs had been patented earlier.
What the printed transmission demonstrates
Hackaday’s March 13, 2018 feature describes a plastic model that combines printed parts with screws and BBs. It highlights planetary gears, ratcheting elements and a cam adjustment as parts of the mechanism. The article links to the Thingiverse model and an explanatory video.
The model is useful because it turns an abstract transmission concept into moving parts a person can inspect. Hackaday’s Al Williams states, “The model is just for demonstration purposes.” The feature also doubts that the plastic mechanism would have useful wear life in practical service, so it should not be treated as a vehicle-ready drivetrain.
How a ratcheting CVT changes its ratio
From input rotation to reciprocating motion
A transmission adapts a motor’s rotation to the output speed and torque a machine needs. A conventional fixed-gear transmission offers selected ratios; a CVT varies its ratio across a range. In the mechanism family described by a related cam-based patent, rotary input is converted into reciprocating movement, and ratchets rectify that movement into output rotation.
The Tool Desk
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- Reference Number: CVT7, JF015E, RE0F11A, 901068
- Warning: The included primary pulley has 29 teeth. It is NOT interchangeable with the 30-tooth one. Please count your existing pulley’s tooth before ordering.
- Fit for Nissan: 2009-2014 Cube 1.8L; 2011-2017 Juke 1.6L Turbo; 2013-2019 Sentra 1.8L; 2012-2019 Versa Sedan 1.6L; 2014-2019 Versa Note 1.6L
- Fit for Mitsubishi: 2014-2021 Mirage 1.2L, 2017-2021 Mirage G4 1.2L
- Package Content: This is a master rebuild kit for complete CVT transmission restoration, including drive & drive pulley set, steel belt, gaskets, friction plates, oil filter, seals and more
Changing the movement changes the ratio
In that patent description, adjusting the cam changes the amplitude of the reciprocation. The ratcheting drive then advances the output by a different amount for each input cycle, varying the effective ratio. The patent also describes planetary gearing. This explains the principle behind a cam-and-ratchet transmission, but it does not establish that every detail of the printed model matches a particular patent embodiment.
Why the “invented again” story needs context
Hackaday reports that the maker fabricated a similar idea from scrap material when he was 16, then later learned that a patent on the same design had been filed 14 years earlier. That is the creator’s account of rediscovery, not an independent legal determination that his idea was identical to a patent claim.
Rank #2
- 【HIGH PERFORMANCE】The CVT transmission oil pan plays a vital role in maintaining the efficiency, longevity, and reliability of the CVT system by managing fluid storage, lubrication. Regular maintenance, such as filter changes and inspections, is essential to ensure its proper function.Equipping with O-rings to prevent leaks and ensure a secure, airtight connection.
- 【UPGRADE QUALITY】The Transmission Oil Filter durability matters, that is why our Filter designed with thickened filter paper to ensure better filtration.
- 【MODEL LIST】For JF015E,RE0F11A Automatic CVT Transmission,Compatible with Nissan, 2012-2019 Versa 1.6L ,2014-2019 Versa Note 1.6L,2013-2019 Sentra 1.8L.You can select your vehicle to check if the 33010-JF015 Oil Pan fits your vehicle.
- 【OEM PART NUMBER】Replacing Oil Pan part number:33010JF015,3172628X0A,RE0F11A,JF015E,33010JF015, 31726-28X0A,19318012,31726-3JX0A.Replacing the transmission Oil Pan is often a easy DIY job.
- 【Package Includes】1X CVT Transmission Oil Pan,1X Transmission Oil Filter, 1X Gasket,1xDrain Washer.
Patent records show earlier activity in this broader area. The related U.S. publication US20070238568A1, “Cam-based infinitely variable transmission”, was published October 11, 2007, and lists an April 10, 2006 application date. Another record, WO2001061211A2, “Infinitely and continuously variable transmission”, was published August 23, 2001, and claims a February 18, 2000 provisional filing. These dates establish that related concepts were documented earlier; they do not, by themselves, prove that the printed model is identical to a specific patent claim.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What to know before printing it
The linked project is the starting point for anyone who wants to inspect or print the model. The 2018 feature identifies plastic, screws and BBs, but does not establish exact hardware sizes, quantities, print settings or material specifications. Check the current model files and their instructions before buying hardware or choosing filament; do not assume a particular printer setup or material is compatible.
Rank #3
- This product is divided into 25 teeth,27 teeth and 30 teeth, This item is applicable to for 30 teeth, this accessory can not be confirmed by the chassis number. It can only be confirmed by the quantities of teeth on the part. Our product is for 30 teeth. Pls confirm you which teeth you need.
- OE Number: JF017E, RE0F10E
- Fitment:Compatible with NISSAN ALTIMA 3.5L 2012-2014, Compatible with NISSAN ELGRAND 3.5L 2013-2014, Compatible with NISSAN MURANO L4 2.5L 3.5L 2014, Compatible with NISSAN PATHFINDER 3.5L 2013-2014, Compatible with NISSAN TEANA 2.5L 3.5L 2013-2014, Compatible with NISSAN X-TRAIL 1.6L 2014, Compatible with RENAULT LATITUDE 2.5L 3.5L 2012-2014
- Quantity:1set CVT Transmission 30T Pulley Set with Chain Belt, 1set CVT Transmission Master Rebuild Kit Clutch Plates
- NOTES: Please double check and confirm the compatibility of vehicle makes and models as well as the OEM number before purchasing. If you are not sure whether it is suitable for your car model,you can provide us your car VIN (Vehicle Identification Number), we will check OK for you
No published performance figures are provided for ratio range, efficiency, torque capacity, dimensions, print time or wear. The available information supports treating the design as a mechanical demonstration, not as a validated way to power a car.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- OE/OEM Part Number:JF015E，RE0F11A，901068
- Car Make: Compatible with NISSAN SUZUKI RENAULT DATSUN MITSUBISHI
- Top Build Quality: With meticulous craftsmanship and strict testing process, our parts have the reliability and longevity you can always trust
- Package Content: This is a master rebuild kit for complete CVT transmission restoration, including drive & drive pulley set, steel belt, gaskets, friction plates, oil filter, seals and more
- Warning: The included primary pulley has 29 teeth. It is NOT interchangeable with the 30-tooth one. Please count your existing pulley’s tooth before ordering
Rank #4
- Importance of Transmission Filter Service: As clutches and bands wear, they shed a dark, fine friction material — similar to brake dust.The transmission filter and oil pan work together to trap this micro‑fine debris, helping reduce the risk of low‑speed "judder" or "shudder" and lowering the chance of an transmission rebuild.
- Precision Fit for Nissan CVT Transmission:Maticvas transmission filter kit is specifically designed for Nissan vehicles equipped with JF011E transmission，2007-2016 Altima 2.5L,2011-2017 Juke 1.6L,2014-2016 NV200 2.0L,2008-2015 Nissan Rogue 2.5L.
- Transmission Filter – OEM Cross Reference:31728-1XA00, 31728-1XF03, 31728-1XF0A, 31728-1XZ0D, 31728-1XZ0A.
- No Leaks, No Comebacks: Our transmission filter kit uses high-quality paper and premium rubber to match OEM efficiency and reliable seal. Built to last the full 50,000-mile maintenance cycle.
- Complete Service Kit Included:This trans filter kit provides everything needed for a routine CVT fluid service: (1) High-flow transmission filter/strainer, (1) Durable pan gasket.Save time by ordering everything in one part number.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
