Käiguvahetussüsteem

Käiguvahetussüsteem refers to the mechanism within a vehicle that allows the driver or an automated system to change the gear ratio. This is crucial for optimizing the engine's power output and fuel efficiency across different driving speeds and conditions. The primary function of a käiguvahetussüsteem is to transmit engine torque to the drive wheels through a series of gears. By selecting different gear ratios, the vehicle can achieve higher torque for starting from a stop or climbing hills, and lower torque with higher rotational speed for cruising at higher velocities.

In manual transmission vehicles, the driver operates the käiguvahetussüsteem using a clutch pedal and a gear shifter. The clutch disengages the engine from the transmission, allowing the driver to move the shifter to select the desired gear. Once the gear is selected, the clutch is re-engaged, transmitting power through the new gear ratio. Automatic transmissions, on the other hand, perform these shifts automatically. They utilize hydraulic pressure, electronic controls, and various gear sets, often including planetary gear systems, to select the appropriate gear ratio without driver intervention. Modern vehicles may also feature continuously variable transmissions (CVTs), which offer an infinite range of gear ratios rather than distinct steps, providing smoother acceleration and potentially better fuel economy. The effectiveness of the käiguvahetussüsteem significantly impacts a vehicle's performance, drivability, and its overall fuel consumption.