Title: Gearless hydraulic transmission and vehicle drive system

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Abstract: A gearless transmission providing pressurized hydraulic fluid to torque motors for driving a vehicle. A hydraulic pump is driven by a turbine engine shaft to provide fluid to accumulators and then to the transmission device. Fluid is selectively admitted into the transmission by the vehicle accelerator pedal. Thereafter the fluid flow may be restricted through fluid circuitry having orifices which provide variable torque output. The circuitry is controlled by a shifter selector with pilot lines to actuate fluid control valves between two control positions. Especially important for turbine-powered vehicles, the transmission provides a braking function when the accelerator pedal is released in either the low or second control range of operation. Means for providing a reverse mode of operation is also disclosed.

A hydraulic differential is also provided and is controlled by the steering mechanism to restrict flow to one of the torque motors during a turn.

A hydraulic positive traction device is also provided and substantially reduces flow to a torque motor when a wheel is spinning such as in snow or loose gravel.

A hydraulic pilot line valve is also provided to direct pressurized fluid for movement of spool valves in a hydraulic circuit line.