CA2369243A1 - Brake shoe proximity sensor - Google Patents

Brake shoe proximity sensor Download PDF

Info

Publication number
CA2369243A1
CA2369243A1 CA002369243A CA2369243A CA2369243A1 CA 2369243 A1 CA2369243 A1 CA 2369243A1 CA 002369243 A CA002369243 A CA 002369243A CA 2369243 A CA2369243 A CA 2369243A CA 2369243 A1 CA2369243 A1 CA 2369243A1
Authority
CA
Canada
Prior art keywords
brake
shoe
sensor
pad
brake shoe
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Abandoned
Application number
CA002369243A
Other languages
French (fr)
Inventor
Dennis A. Borugian
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Volvo Trucks North America Inc
Original Assignee
Volvo Trucks North America Inc
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Volvo Trucks North America Inc filed Critical Volvo Trucks North America Inc
Publication of CA2369243A1 publication Critical patent/CA2369243A1/en
Abandoned legal-status Critical Current

Links

Classifications

    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D66/00Arrangements for monitoring working conditions, e.g. wear, temperature
    • F16D66/02Apparatus for indicating wear
    • F16D66/021Apparatus for indicating wear using electrical detection or indication means
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D51/00Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like
    • F16D51/16Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like shaped as brake-shoes pivoted on a fixed or nearly-fixed axis
    • F16D51/18Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like shaped as brake-shoes pivoted on a fixed or nearly-fixed axis with two brake-shoes
    • F16D51/20Brakes with outwardly-movable braking members co-operating with the inner surface of a drum or the like shaped as brake-shoes pivoted on a fixed or nearly-fixed axis with two brake-shoes extending in opposite directions from their pivots
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D65/00Parts or details
    • F16D65/14Actuating mechanisms for brakes; Means for initiating operation at a predetermined position
    • F16D65/16Actuating mechanisms for brakes; Means for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake
    • F16D65/22Actuating mechanisms for brakes; Means for initiating operation at a predetermined position arranged in or on the brake adapted for pressing members apart, e.g. for drum brakes
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D66/00Arrangements for monitoring working conditions, e.g. wear, temperature
    • F16D2066/003Position, angle or speed
    • FMECHANICAL ENGINEERING; LIGHTING; HEATING; WEAPONS; BLASTING
    • F16ENGINEERING ELEMENTS AND UNITS; GENERAL MEASURES FOR PRODUCING AND MAINTAINING EFFECTIVE FUNCTIONING OF MACHINES OR INSTALLATIONS; THERMAL INSULATION IN GENERAL
    • F16DCOUPLINGS FOR TRANSMITTING ROTATION; CLUTCHES; BRAKES
    • F16D2125/00Components of actuators
    • F16D2125/18Mechanical mechanisms
    • F16D2125/20Mechanical mechanisms converting rotation to linear movement or vice versa
    • F16D2125/22Mechanical mechanisms converting rotation to linear movement or vice versa acting transversely to the axis of rotation
    • F16D2125/28Cams; Levers with cams
    • F16D2125/30Cams; Levers with cams acting on two or more cam followers, e.g. S-cams

Abstract

A brake system with an integral proximity sensor for providing an indication of a condition of the brake system. The brake system includes a brake drum, a brake shoe, a brake pad, and a position sensor. The brake pad is connected to a pad mounting surface of the brake shoe. The brake pad and brake shoe are movable from a disengaged position, where the brake pad is spaced apart from the brake drum to an engaged position, where the pad is in forcible engagement with the brake drum. The position sensor is coupled to the brake shoe for sensing the position of the brake shoe with respect to the position sensor. The position of the brake shoe with respect to the position sensor provides an indication of one or more conditions of the brake system.

Description

T
l f Technical Field BRAKE SHOE PROXUVBTY SENSOR.
The present invention relates to brake sensors and, rnore particularly, the present invention relates to a brake shoe proximity sensor for drum brakes of a land vehicle.
Ba~ound Art Owners and operators of vehicles having drum brakes need to know the brake's state of adjustment~and brake wear to ensure safe operation of a vehicle.
Brakes that are out of adjustment may not supply a sufficient amount of stopping power or may drag causing unnecessary wear and may cause the brakes to overheat. Brakes that are warn beyond an acceptable level may not supply a su~cient amount of stopping power for safe operation of the vehicle.
Some drum brakes are actuated by an S-cam or Z-cam assembly. S-cam brakes are actuated by a pneumatically driven push rod, which rotates a cam shaft on which the S-cam is mounted. The S-cam forces a pair of brake.shoes against an interior surface of a brake drum. It is known in the art to measure the angular rotation of the S-cam to determine the adjustment of the brakes and wear of the brakes. However, to employ this method calculations must be performed to convert the angular rotation of the S-cam to an estimated travel distance at the brake shoe center. This calculation differs depending on the brake size and type, as well as the effective radius of the S-cam. - For example, a different calculation is required for brakes having different diameters, when brakes use a single anchor pin rather than dual anchor pins, and when the effective radius of the cam changes. The computer or system reading the output. of the S-cam type sensors must be configured to calculate the brake shoe travel of the particular brake type and size that it is , monitoring.
It is known in the,art to.use an actuator position sensor to measure brake wear and ~, running clearance adjustment of disc aircraft brakes: Brake wear and running clearance measurements are obtained by analyzing an output of position sensing circuit.
Brake disc stack height is measured using actuator position sensors. The_output of an actuator o position sensor is compared by a controller to a reference brake disc stack height to .y.
provide an indication of an amount of brake gear. The displacement measured by the sensor can be used to determine a running clearance position of a reciprocating ram by subtracting a predetermined clearance value from the present displacement value.
Drum brakes for land vehicles are subject to harsh conditions. For example, drum brakes, which are continuously used, become very hot. In addition, drum brakes fox land vehicles are exposed to dirt, debris and often salt.
What is needed is a'drum braking system having a brake shoe proximity sensor that can be used to measure brake adjustment and brake lining wear on a variety of brake types and sizes without needing to be adjusted for the particular brake type and size being used, to and which will hold up under the harsh environment in which drum brakes for land vehicles are operated.
Disclosure of Invention The present invention concerns a brake system that utilizes a proximity sensor.
The system includes a brake shoe that has a pad mounting surface. A brake lining pad is connected to the pad mounting surface of the brake shoe. The brake pad and brake shoe are concentric with a cylindrical surface of a brake drum. The brake shoe and pad are movable between a disengaged position where the brake pad is spaced apart from the cylindrical surface of the brake drum and an engaged position where the brake pad is in 2 o forceable engagement with the cylindrical surface of the brake drum. A
position sensor is coupled to the brake shoe for sensing a position of the brake shoe relative to the position sensor. The position of the brake shoe relative to the position sensor provides an indication of the condition of the brake system.
The position sensor may utilize radar for sensing the position ofthe brake shoe.
Alternatively, the position sensor may be a linear variable difr'erential transformer or potentiometric displacement transducer which is physically connected to the brake shoe.
In one embodiment, a brake spider is operably connected to the brake shoe facilitating movement of the shoe and pad between a disengaged position where the pad is spaced apart from the brake drum and an engaged position where the pad is in forceable engagement with the brake drum. A dust shield is connected to the brake spider. The dust shield has a first side that is oriented toward the brake shoe and a second side that is oriented away from the brake shoe. The dust shield includes an opening for a linkage in one embodiment.
In one embodiment, an insulation barrier is mounted to the second side of the dust shield. The position sensor is mounted to the.insulation barrier. A protective coating or a protective cover may be disposed over the sensor. In one illustrated embodiment, the sensor is connected to the brake shoe by a linkage which extends through the opening in the dust shield. The linkage includes a first end that is connected to the position sensor to and a second end that is connected to the brake shoe.
The position of a brake shoe is sensed by mounting the proximity sensor to a brake assembly. In one embodiment, the position of a brake shoe is sensed by mounting the proximity sensor to a brake spider backing plate or to a dust shield of the brake assembly.
The input of the proximity sensor is coupled to the brake shoe. The proximity sensor detects motion of the brake shoe relative to the proximity sensor and provides an output indicative of the position of the brake shoe.
The proximity sensor of the brake system of the present 'invention can be used ~on a variety of sizes and types of brakes, without requiring modification to accurately calculate brake shoe motion for different sizes and types of brakes. In addition, the brake system 2 0 . with an integral proximity sensor constructed in accordance with the present invention is capable of operating when the brakes are at high temperatures for long periods of time and in the harsh environments in which drum brakes for land vehicles operate.
Additional features of the invention will become apparent and a fuller .understanding obtained by reading the following detailed description in connection with 2 5 the accompanying drawings.
Brief Description of Drawings Figure 1 is an exploded perspective view of a drum braking system;
Figure 2 is a fragmentary front elevatianal view of a drum braking system in a disengaged position;
Figure 3 is a fragmentary front elevational view of a drum braking system in an engaged position;
Figure 4 is a graph of a brake shoe table position versus time through a maintenance cycle;
Figure 5 is a block diagram illustrating the steps of a method for monitoring brake to adjustment and brake wear;
Figure 6 is a schematic representation of a brake system with a linear potentiometer coupled to a brake shoe;
Figure 7 is a schematic representation of a brake system with a linear variable differential transformer coupled to the brake shoe; and, Figure 8 is a schematic representation of a brake aystem with a radar transmitter and receiver positioned to monitor the position of the brake shoe.
Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention The present invention is directed to a brake system 10 with an integral brake shoe proximity sensor 12 (Figures 2 and 3) for monitoring and measuring brake lining wear and brake adjustment of a vehicle having drum brakes 14 from inside a vehicle cab (not shown) or from another convenient location. Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the proximity sensor 12 is mounted ~to a typical drum brake. By monitoring the distance between the proximity sensor 12 and a brake shoe 36 brake adjustment and brake wear are calculated and monitored. In the exemplary embodiment, the sensor is coupled to an on-board computer 17 which monitors the brake adjustment and the brake wear.
Referring to Figure 1, a typical drum brake system includes an actuator 16, a brake shoe assembly 18, and a brake drum 20. .The actuator 16 includes a brake chamber 22, a slack adjuster 26, and a cam shaft 28. The brake chamber 22 is mounted to a mounting bracket 29 that is connected to the brake spider or backing plate 42, which is connected to a vehicle axle. The brake chamber 22 contains a diaphragm (not shown) and a push rod - 30. The brake chamber converts air pressure behind the diaphragm to linear driving force when the brakes are applied.
5 As illustrated in Figure l, the push rod 30 extends from the brake chamber 22 and is pivotally connected to the slack adjuster 26. The slack adjuster 26 is rotated in direction A by the push rod 30 as the push rod 30 is forced from the brake chamber 22 in a direction B by the diaphragm. The slack adjuster 26 engages splines 32 of the cam shaft 28 so that rotation of the slack adjuster 26 rotates the cam shaft 28 and an S-cam 34 that is attached to an end of the cam shaft 28.
Referring to Figure 1, the brake shoe assembly 18 includes brake shoes 36, brake pads 38 attached to an outer surface 40 of each of the brake shoes 36, a brake spider 42 or brake spider and a dust shield 44. Generally, rear brake assemblies include a brake spider, which is a casting or heavy stamping. Front brake assemblies typically include a lighter, generally flat backing plate. No dust shield 44 is required when a backing plate is used.
Reference character 42 refers to either a brake spider or a backing plate. In the exemplary embodiment, the proximity sensor is mounted to the brake spider or backing plate aridlor the dust shield 44. The brake shoes 36 and the brake pads 38 are connected to the brake spider 42 by retainer springs (not shown) and return, springs 46 in a manner that is well 2 0 known in the art. The dust shield 44 is mechanically fastened to the brake spider 42.
Referring to Figure 1, the cam shaft 28 extends through an opening 48 in the brake spider 42 and an opening (not shown) in the dust shield 44. The brake shoe assembly 18 includes cam rollers 50 on the brake shoes. The return springs 46 force the cam rollers SO
against the S-cam 34 or a Z-cam (not shown). Referring to Figures 2 and 3, rotating the 2~ S-cam 34 acts on the cam rollers 50 to force the brake shoes 36 and pads 38 to spread apart, bringing the pads 38 into frictional engagement with an interior surface 52 ofthe brake drum 24.
As illustrated in Figures 1-3, the S-cam 34 has S-shaped cam surfaces 54. The cam rollers 50 on the.brake shoes 36 are urged against the cam rollers 50 by the return .R.
biasing springs 46. Rotating the S-cam 34 in direction C forces the cam rollers SO to follow divergent paths on the S-shaped cam surfaces 54 thereby forcing the brake shoes 36 and pads 38 apart. Rotating the camshaft 28, either by applying the brakes, causing the push rod 30 to rotate the slack adjustor 26, or by adjusting the slack adjuster 26, moves the brake pads 38 closer to the brake drum 20.
The brake pads 38 and brake drum 20 wear due to repeated application of the brakes. The brake.shoes 36 must move farther to force the brake pads 38 against the brake drum 20 as the brake pads 38 wear. The slack adjuster 26 (Figure 1) must be adjusted to compensate for the brake pad 3 8 wear and for wear of the interior surface 52 to of the brake drum 20. Referring to Figure 1, the length of the push rod 30 that extends from the brake chamber 22 increases as the push rod is forced out of the brake chamber 22 by the diaphragm. The distance that the diaphragm moves within the brake chamber 22 translates directly into movement of the. pushrod 30. Typically, the maximum usable pushrod travel is approximately 1 '~" to 2 %i".
Travel of the push rod 30 results in only a small rotation of the slack adjuster 26 and cam shaft 28. If, before the brakes are appfied, the brake pads 3 8 are not in close .
proximity to the interior surface 52 of the brake drum 20, the maximum pushrod travel will be insufficient to bring the brake pads 38 into frictional,engagement with the brake drum 20. This situation is known in the art as "brakes out of adjustment." The brakes 2 0 may be adjusted by adjusting the slack adjuster in a manner well knov~m in the art when the brakes are not applied. Some slack adjusters adjust automatically. Adjusting the slack adjuster 26 will, if the brake pads 38 and brake drum 20 are not overly worn, bring the brakes back into adjustment by moving the brake pads 38 back into close proximity with the brake drum 20, when the pushrod 30 is in a retracted position. However, if the brake pads 38 and brake drum 20 are excessively worn, adjustment of the brakes will not bring the brake pads 38 close enough to the interior surface 52 of the brake drum 20'to cause frictional engagement to occur when the brakes are applied.
The braking force of the brakes is greatly reduced when the brakes are out of adjustment. It is the responsibility of the operator of the vehicle to ensure that the brakes y.
are adjusted correctly. In most prior art systems, this meant that the operator had to stop at every brake cheek point and crawl under the vehicle to inspect the brakes and, if necessary, adjust the brakes.
By monitoring the position of the brake. shoe, an accurate indication of the brake adjustment may be obtained and displayed to the operator of the vehicle. The signal provided to the operator will advise the operator to adjust the brakes before they become out of adjustment. Properly adjusted brakes will have a push rod stroke of approximately 3~e" to'/z" and a maximum brake shoe travel 36 of approximately O.OZS" at the shoe center.
The push rod stroke and brake shoe travel increases when the distance between the brake io pad 38 and the brake drum increases due to brake pad wear and brake drum wear. The distance may also increase due to heating of the brake drum, causing it to expand. This phenomenon is known as mechanical brake fade. As the temperature of the system rises beyond a critical point, the brake lining itself becomes adversely affected and its frictional co-efficient decreases, further reducing the braking system's retardation force.
In most prior art systems, to check brake wear (i:e., the amount of brake pad left), the mechanic or operator was required to crawl under the vehicle, and remove a small inspection plug (not shown) from an inspection hole or slot (not shown) in the dust shield 44.
In the exemplary embodiment, brake wear and brake adjustment are monitored by 2o monitoring the distance from the brake shoe 36 to the proximity sensor 12.
Brake wear and adjustment are displayed to an operator of the vehicle by monitoring the absolute position of the brake shoe 36 with_respect to the: proximity sensor 12.
Figure 4 is a plot showing the variation of the~brake shoe position over time as the brakes are repeatedly applied. The points along the time legend labeled "B"
represent s~
times when the brake pads were changed and the points labeled "A" represent times when the brakes were adjusted. In Figure 4, P, represents - the axed position of the proximity sensor 12. P~ represents the initial released position of the brake shoes when the brake linings are new, the brake drum is unworn and the brakes areproperly adjusted.
P~, represents the initial applied position of the brake shoes when the brake linings are new.
...,.
Each time the brakes are applied, the brake shoes 36 move away from the position sensor and toward the interior surface 52 of the brake drum 20. When the brakes are released, the brake shoes 36 move back to their starting position Pte. Each pulse of the graph of Figure 4 corresponds to one application and release of the vehicle brakes.
Each time the brakes are applied, the brake pads 38 and brake drum 20 wear slightly so that the brake shoe must move further the next time the brakes are applied to engage the brake drum 20.
With respect to Figure 4, this results in pulses of increasing height for subsequent brake applications.
The adjustment of the brakes can-be determined by measuring the distance the brake shoes 36 travel during each application of the brakes. The position of the brake shoes 36 is measured for each application and release of the brakes. The maximum travel ofthe brake shoes 36 produced by the actuator 16 is known for any given brake assembly.
When the travel ~of the brake shoes 3 6, monitored by the proximity sensor I2 is approached or reached, the system indicates that the brakes need adjusting. In the exemplary embodiment; a warning is given to the operator when the brake shoe and corresponding push rod travel approach the maximum brake shoe and push rod travel specified by the brake manufacturer, alerting the operator that the brakes must be adjusted.
Referring to Figure 4, brake lining wear can be monitored by measuring the 2 0 absolute distance D of the brake shoe 36 relative to the position sensor 12. The initial position of the brake shoes with respect to the position sensor I 2 is recorded when the brake pads are new. As the brake pads 38 wear, the distance between a properly adjusted brake shoe and the proximity sensor 12 increases, giving an indication of the brake wear.
The usable thickness {T) of the brake pads 38 is known when new brake pads are 2 5 installed. The wear of the inner surface 52 of the brake drum 20 is generally negligible in comparison with the wear of the brake pads 3 8. Ignoring the wear of the brake drum 20, wear (W) of the brake pads 38 is calculated by the equation:
W=P-P. . .
where W is the thickness of brake lining worn away, P is the position of the brake ,$.
shoe monitored by the proximity sensor and P. is the initial position of the brake shoe when the brake pads were installed. The monitored position P and the initial position P, may be the applied position or released position ~of the brake shoes 36. In the exemplary embodiment, the initial applied position P~, of the brake shoe is compared to the position of the brake shoe when the brakes are applied to determine brake pad wear, since the brakes state of adjustment does not effect the calculation when the applied position is used. The remaining usable thickness (T~ of the brake pads 38 is equal to the brake wear (~ subtracted from the initial usable thickness (T~ of the brake pads. (TR =
TI - ~ In the exemplary embodiment, an alarm is triggered when the position of the brake shoes t0 indicates that the brake pads 38 are nearly worn out. In one embodiment, the remaining usable brake lining thickness can be selectively displayed and is automatically displayed when the alarm is triggered.
The brake drum 20 also wears as the brakes are applied, but the brake drums are generally not replaced as often as the brake pads 3 8, since the wear of the brake drum is much less than the wear of the brake pad. When the brake pads 38 are replaced and the brakes are adjusted but the brake drums are not replaced, the position of the brake shoes 36 returns. to an adjusted position that is slightly greater than the initial position P~ due to wear of the brake drum.
Referring to Figure 6, the position of the brake shoes 36 is measured by a linear 2 0 potentiometer 56 that is mounted to an outer surface 58 of the dust shield 44 in one embodiment. The dust shield protects: the linear potentiometer from heat generated by the brakes and brake dust. In the exemplary embodiment, an insulation barrier 59 is disposed between the linear potentiometer and the dust shield 44 to further protect the linear potentiometer from heat generated by the brakes. In the exemplary embodiment, a protective covering 61 encases the linear potentiometer to protect it from the elements. In this embodiment, the dust shield includes an opening 60 that a linkage 62 ~of the linear potentiometer extends through. The linkage 62 is mechanically fastened to the brake shoe 36. When the brake shoe 36 moves into and out of engagement with the brake drum 20, the linkage 62 moves with the brake shoe 36 causing an end 64 of the linkage to move within a body 66 of the linear potentiometer.
Movement of the linkage 62 with respect to the body 66 of the linear potentiometer produces an analog electrical output proportional to the position of the brake shoe 36. The analog output is used to determine the position of the brake shoe 36 with respect to the linear potentiometer, allowing determination of brake adjustment and.
brake wear according to the method disclosed above. One linear potentiometer that may be used is Model # LCP 12-12 produced by Precision Sales located in Newton Square, PA, which can handle a'/Z" stroke. A second linear potentiometer that may be used is Model "LCP 1225 produced by Precision Sales, which can handle a 1" stroke.
1o Referring to Figure 7, a linear variable differential transformer 68 is used to measure the position of the brake shoes 36 in a second embodiment. The linear variable differential transformer 68 includes a body 70 that is mounted to the outer surface 58 of the dust shield 44. The dust shield protects the linear variable differential transformer ' from heat generated by the brakes~and brake dust. In the exemplary embodiment, an s5 insulation barrier 59 is placed between the linear variable differential transformer 68 and the dust shield 44 to further protect the linear variable differential transformer from heat ~ generated by the brakes. In the exemplary embodiment, a protective covering surrounds the linear variable differential transformer to protect it from the harsh environment in which vehicles are drive~i"In this embodiment, the opening 60 in the dust 2 0 ~ shield 44 is aligned with the body 70 of the linear variable differential transformer 68. A
linkage 72 of the linear variable differential transformer extends from the body 70 of the' linear variable differential transformer extends through the opening 60 in the dust shield 44. An end 74 of thevlinkage is coupled to the brake shoe 36.
Movement of the linkage 72 within the body 70 of the linear variable differential 25 transformer 68 produces a signal that is proportional to the position ofthe brake shoe 36.
The signal output of the linear variable differential transformer (LVDT) is proportional to the distance the brake shoe moves relative to the LVDT 68. One LVDT which may be used is Model # LD-600 produced by Omega, which is a, high accuracy DC long stroke displacement transducer.

~l Referring the Figure 8, in a third embodiment; the proximity sensor I Z is a radar transmitter and receiver 78. The radar transmitterlreceiver is mounted to the outer surface 58 of the dust shield 44. The dust shield protects the radar transmitter and receiver 78 from heat generated by the brakes used and brake dust. in the exemplary embodiment, an insulation barrier 59 is placed between the:radar transmitter and receiver 78 and the dust shield 44 to further protect the radar transmitter and receiver 78 from heat generated by the brakes. In the exemplary embodiment, a protective covering 61 surrounds the radar transmitter and receiver 78 to protect it from the harsh environment in which vehicles are driven. In this embodiment, the dust shield opening 60 is located such that radar can be ' transmitted through the dust shield 44 to the brake shoe 36, be reflected oi~the brake shoe back through the opening 60 and be received by the radar receiver. The radar transmitterlreceiver provides an output indicative of the position of the brake shoe 36 with respect to the radar transmitterlreceiver 78. This output is used to determine the brake's state of adjustment arid wear of the brake pad 3 8.
Referring to Figures 2 and 3, the proximity sensor 12 is aligned with the center 69 ofthe brake shoe 36 a the exemplary embodiment. Monitoring the position ofthe center of the brake shoe gives a mare accurate indication of the adjustment and wear of the brakes. By monitoring the brake shoe travel directly at the shoe center, further calculations are not required and the measurement is not afl'ected by tolerances of other 2 o components. By way of contrast, systems which measure the angular rotation of a cam are adversely affected by bearing wear in camshaft bracket bushings. The proximity sensor of the present invention can be used, regardless of the brake size, brake type, or effective camshaft radius.
Figure 5 is a flow chart.of the steps that are performed to monitor brake adjustment and brake~wear with the present invention. I~ew brake pads 38 are applied to the brake shoes 36 and the brakes are properly adjusted. Then, the initial positions P~ and P~ of the brake shoe with respect to the proximity sensor 12 and the initial brake pad thickness 80 is stored. Also stored is the distance between the brake shoe and brake pad corresponding to brakes about to become out of adjustment. This is the distance the shoe a.

must travel from the released position to the applied position to allow contact to occur between the brake shoe lining and the drum. Additionally, the amount of brake pad wear that is acceptable before the brake pads should be changed is stored. When the brakes are applied, the proximity sensor 12 measures the distance from the proximity sensor 12 to the brake shoe 36. When the brakes are released, the proximity sensor measures the distance from the brake shoes 36 to the proximity sensor 12. The measured applied position is compared to the measured release position. If the difference between the measured applied and release positions is greater than the stored "out of adjustment"
value the on-board computer 17 will provide an out of adjustment- signal to the operator of the vehicle Zo in the vehicle cab. Details on the manner in which signals are relayed to the operator of the vehicle are disclosed in the patent application entitled "Vehicle Diagnostic System,"
filed on the same day as the present invention, assigned to the assignee of the present invention and incorporated herein by references. The on-board computer 17 then compares one of the measured applied or released positions and compares it to a stored excessive wear position. If the measured position is greater than the stored.excessive wear position, the on-board computer 17 provides an excessive wear signal to the operator of the vehicle in the vehicle cab, indicating that the brake pads should be changed'. This process is repeated each time the brakes are applied and released in the exemplary embodiment. In the exemplary embodiment, the on-board computer is a Volvo 2 0 Action Link System, Volvo Part No.:20437887.
A computer program is used to perform the comparing and signaling steps in the exemplary embodiment. Several thresholds may be stored for any of the above calculations. For example, the program may be designed to give a warning when the brakes are approaching an out of adjustment condition and may be programed to give 2 5 warnings for different states of brake wear. This allows the operator to plan maintenance well in advance. The computer may monitor input from sources other than the'proximity sensor 12. For example, the brake temperature may be measured by a temperature sensor, or tire ply temperature maybe measured by a temperature sensor.
Although the present invention has been described with a degree of particularity, it is the intent that the invention include all modifications and alterations falling within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.
.....

Claims (20)

1. A brake system with an integral proximity sensor; comprising:
a) a brake drum having a cylindrical surface;
b) a brake shoe having a pad mounting surface;
c) a brake lining pad connected to said pad mounting surface of said shoe, said pad and shoe being concentric with said cylindrical surface, said shoe and pad being movable between a disengaged position wherein said pad is spaced apart from said cylindrical surface to an engaged position wherein said pad is in forcible engagement with said cylindrical surface;
d) a position sensor coupled to said brake shoe for sensing a position of the shoe relative to the position sensor and thereby provide an indication of a condition of the brake system.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 further wherein said position sensor uses radar for sensing position of the brake shoe.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said position sensor is a linear variable differential transformer.
4. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said position sensor is a potentiometric displacement transducer.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a dust shield connected to said brake system, said position sensor being mounted to said dust shield.
6. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein said dust shield has a first side oriented toward said shoe and a second side oriented away from said shoe, said sensor being mounted to said second side.
7. The apparatus of claim 6 further comprising a mechanical linkage extending through a slot in said dust shield, said linkage including a first end connected to said brake shoe and a second end connected to said sensor.
8. The apparatus of claim 5 wherein said dust shield has a first side oriented toward said shoe and a second side oriented away from said shoe, said sensor being mounted to said second side.
9. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising a brake spider operably connected to said brake shoe for moving said shoe between said disengaged and engaged positions, said position sensor being mounted to said brake spider.
10. The apparatus of claim 1 further comprising an insulation barrier disposed between said brake shoe and said position sensor.
11. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said sensor is mounted to a brake spider.
12. The apparatus of claim 1 wherein said sensor is mounted to a backing plate.
13. A brake system with integral brake shoe proximity sensor, comprising:
a) a brake drum having an inner surface;
b) a brake shoe having an outer surface;
c) a brake lining pad connected to said outer surface of said shoe, said pad and shoe being surrounded by said inner surface, d) a brake spider operably connected to said brake shoe for moving said shoe and pad between a disengaged position wherein said pad is spaced apart from said inner surface to an engaged position wherein said pad is in forcible engagement with said inner surface;

e) a dust shield connected to said spider, said dust shield having a first side oriented toward said shoe and a second side oriented away from said shoe, said dust shield including an opening;
f) an insulation barrier mounted to said second side of said dust shield;
g) a position sensor mounted to said insulation barrier;
h) a protective covering over said sensor; and i) a linkage extending through said opening including a first end operably connected to said position sensor and a second end operably connected to said shoe.
14. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said position sensor is a linear variable differential transformer.
15. The apparatus of claim 13 wherein said position sensor is a potentiometric displacement transducer.
16. A method of sensing a position of a brake shoe, comprising:
a) mounting a proximity sensor to a brake assembly;
b) coupling an input of said proximity sensor to a brake shoe;
c) detecting a motion of said brake shoe relative to said proximity sensor;
and, d) providing an output indicative of said motion of said brake shoe.
17. The method of claim 16 wherein the step of mounting comprises mounting said proximity sensor to a side of a dust shield that is oriented away from said brake shoe.
18. The method of claim 16 wherein said step of mounting comprises mounting said proximity sensor to a brake spider that is coupled to said shoe.
19. The method of claim 16 wherein the step of coupling comprises connecting a first end of a linkage to said proximity sensor, passing said linkage through an opening in a dust shield, and connecting a second end of said linkage to said shoe.
20. A method of sensing a position of a brake shoe, comprising:
a) mounting a proximity sensor to a side of a dust shield that is oriented away from a brake shoe.
b) connecting a first end of a linkage to said proximity sensor;
c) passing said linkage through an opening in said dust shield;
d) connecting a second end of said linkage to said shoe;
e) detecting a motion of said brake shoe relative to said proximity sensor;
and, f) providing an output indicative of said motion of said brake shoe.
CA002369243A 2001-02-08 2002-01-24 Brake shoe proximity sensor Abandoned CA2369243A1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
US09/779,863 US6581728B2 (en) 2001-02-08 2001-02-08 Brake shoe proximity sensor
US09/779,863 2001-02-08

Publications (1)

Publication Number Publication Date
CA2369243A1 true CA2369243A1 (en) 2002-08-08

Family

ID=25117809

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
CA002369243A Abandoned CA2369243A1 (en) 2001-02-08 2002-01-24 Brake shoe proximity sensor

Country Status (3)

Country Link
US (2) US6581728B2 (en)
CA (1) CA2369243A1 (en)
MX (1) MXPA02001387A (en)

Families Citing this family (43)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US6680672B2 (en) * 2001-02-08 2004-01-20 Volvo Trucks North America, Inc. Vehicle diagnostic system
SE526946C2 (en) * 2003-06-13 2005-11-22 Haldex Brake Prod Ab Sensor system
US7129658B2 (en) * 2003-10-15 2006-10-31 Honeywell International Inc. Electro-mechanical actuator braking apparatus and method using motor commutation sensor output to derive piston displacement
US7175006B2 (en) * 2004-05-18 2007-02-13 Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake Llc Apparatus and method for sensing disc brake actuator position
US7398141B2 (en) * 2004-08-11 2008-07-08 Stemco Lp Gravity based brake stroke sensor methods and systems
US20060090968A1 (en) * 2004-11-01 2006-05-04 Meritor Heavy Vehicle Braking Systems (Uk) Ltd. Brake assembly with brake pad position and wear sensor
GB0500305D0 (en) * 2005-01-08 2005-02-16 Dunlop Aerospace Ltd Electrically actuated aircraft brakes
DE202005011781U1 (en) * 2005-07-27 2005-11-17 Hirschmann Automotive Gmbh Brake pad wear detecting device for use in vehicle brake system, has sensor detecting position and/or reclining path of brake caliper with brake pad, where detected position continuously represents measure for wear of pad
US7222521B1 (en) * 2006-01-12 2007-05-29 Etas, Inc. Method and apparatus for brake rotor testing
US7826388B2 (en) * 2006-09-11 2010-11-02 Arvinmeritor Technology, Llc Sensor interface for selectively providing analog and digital output
US20080078860A1 (en) * 2006-09-11 2008-04-03 Phillip Createman Rotating wing apparatus
DE102007063157A1 (en) * 2007-12-30 2009-07-09 Airbus Deutschland Gmbh System for actuating at least one valve of an aircraft and a method for checking the system
US9441692B2 (en) * 2008-03-11 2016-09-13 Honeywell International Inc. Proximity sensor for brake wear detection
US7877216B2 (en) * 2008-07-30 2011-01-25 Honeywell International Inc. Method, system, and apparatus for friction pad wear and brake condition monitoring
US8078353B2 (en) * 2009-09-11 2011-12-13 Freescale Semiconductor, Inc. Self monitoring braking system for vehicles
US8468881B1 (en) 2010-03-26 2013-06-25 David Hower Brake drum measuring and inspecting device
US9026281B2 (en) * 2010-08-23 2015-05-05 Amstead Rail Company, Inc. Railcar handbrake monitor
US9365223B2 (en) 2010-08-23 2016-06-14 Amsted Rail Company, Inc. System and method for monitoring railcar performance
DE102013100786A1 (en) * 2013-01-25 2014-07-31 Knorr-Bremse Systeme für Nutzfahrzeuge GmbH Disc brake with a Lüftspielüberwachungsvorrichtung and method for Lüftspielüberwachung
DE102014212673B3 (en) * 2014-07-01 2015-10-15 Saf-Holland Gmbh braking system
US9616875B2 (en) 2014-09-11 2017-04-11 Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation Piston stroke sensor arrangement for a brake unit
US10119873B2 (en) 2014-09-15 2018-11-06 Westinghouse Air Brake Technologies Corporation Brake force sensor arrangement for a brake unit
US9308824B1 (en) * 2014-10-31 2016-04-12 GM Global Technology Operations LLC Active brake retraction during regeneration
US9482301B2 (en) 2015-03-25 2016-11-01 Honeywell International Inc. Brake disc stack wear measurement
US9353815B1 (en) 2015-04-17 2016-05-31 Gideon Eden Systems and methods for detecting wear of brake pads
US9951834B1 (en) * 2017-02-09 2018-04-24 Gideon Eden Systems and methods for detecting wear of brake pads
USD770346S1 (en) * 2015-06-16 2016-11-01 Haldex Brake Products Ab Brake adjuster
US9574626B1 (en) * 2015-07-28 2017-02-21 Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake Llc Rigid bracket assembly for mounting a brake assembly and brake actuator
DE102015118233B4 (en) * 2015-10-26 2019-01-03 Saf-Holland Gmbh brake shoe
DE102016001577A1 (en) * 2016-02-11 2017-08-17 Wabco Europe Bvba A method for Lüftspielerkennung in a brake of a motor vehicle, in particular utility vehicle, controller and brake with selbigem
US10088000B2 (en) 2017-01-09 2018-10-02 Bendix Spicer Foundation Brake Llc Rigid bracket assembly for mounting a brake assembly and brake actuator
US11105388B2 (en) 2017-01-25 2021-08-31 Volvo Truck Corporation Brake lining wear sensor
US11180170B2 (en) 2018-01-24 2021-11-23 Amsted Rail Company, Inc. Discharge gate sensing method, system and assembly
US10731720B2 (en) * 2018-01-26 2020-08-04 Rivian Ip Holdings, Llc Methods, systems, and media for non-contact brake pad wear determination
US10471947B1 (en) 2018-04-27 2019-11-12 Honeywell International Inc. Determining estimated remaining use of brake assembly by transceiver
EP4137374A1 (en) 2018-07-12 2023-02-22 Amsted Rail Company, Inc. Brake monitoring systems for railcars
US10941826B2 (en) 2018-09-12 2021-03-09 Honeywell International Inc. Determining estimated remaining use of brake assembly
CN109372918A (en) * 2019-01-02 2019-02-22 深圳永旭动力科技有限公司 It is a kind of can self-test drum-type brake
CN110043587A (en) * 2019-04-28 2019-07-23 江苏理工学院 A kind of automotive brake pads automatic detection device
CN111765187B (en) * 2020-06-30 2021-09-10 东风商用车有限公司 Limit type wear sensor for friction plate of drum brake
WO2022066871A1 (en) * 2020-09-24 2022-03-31 Sensata Technologies Drum brake monitoring systems and methods
CN112483567B (en) * 2020-11-17 2022-09-09 浙江农林大学 Brake pad thickness detection device for drum brake and detection method thereof
BR102022008828A2 (en) * 2022-05-06 2023-11-21 Inst Hercilio Randon Device for monitoring friction material wear in drum brakes and friction material wear monitoring system and method

Family Cites Families (42)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3533491A (en) * 1968-03-20 1970-10-13 Rockwell Standard Co Brake with lining wear indicator
US4128146A (en) * 1975-09-22 1978-12-05 Motor Wheel Corporation Remote control circuit for electric trailer brakes
DE3805589A1 (en) 1988-02-23 1989-08-31 Lucas Ind Plc METHOD AND DEVICE FOR CONTROLLING A BRAKE SYSTEM FOR HEAVY VEHICLES
US5201834A (en) 1989-04-05 1993-04-13 Inventio Ag Method for the testing and monitoring of brakes in rail vehicles
SE468136B (en) 1990-11-28 1992-11-09 Volvo Ab DEVICE FOR INDICATING BRAKE COATING
US5809437A (en) 1995-06-07 1998-09-15 Automotive Technologies International, Inc. On board vehicle diagnostic module using pattern recognition
US5315520A (en) 1991-09-06 1994-05-24 Westinghouse Air Brake Company Friction brake interface health check system for multiple-axle railway vehicles
CA2086449C (en) 1992-01-06 2000-03-07 Steven W. Rogers Computer interface board for electronic automotive vehicle service
DE4214182C2 (en) 1992-04-30 1995-12-07 Daimler Benz Ag Brake pressure control device for brake pad wear optimization in a motor vehicle
US5339069A (en) * 1992-07-01 1994-08-16 Tripen Enterprises Ltd. Brake monitoring system
AU685781B2 (en) 1993-03-06 1998-01-29 Dunlop Aerospace Limited Sequential selective operation of aircraft brakes
US5450930A (en) 1993-12-09 1995-09-19 Mgm Brakes Heavy duty electronic brake stroke indicator
GB9411477D0 (en) 1994-06-08 1994-07-27 Lucas Ind Plc Brake lining wear sensing system
US5433296A (en) 1994-06-14 1995-07-18 Brake Monitoring Systems, Inc. Brake monitoring and warning system
FR2723037A1 (en) 1994-08-01 1996-02-02 Michelin & Cie DEVICE FOR MONITORING THE CONDITION OF THE TIRES AND OF THE BRAKE TEMPERATURE OF A VEHICLE
US5648898A (en) 1994-12-19 1997-07-15 Caterpillar Inc. Method for programming a vehicle monitoring and control system
US5825287A (en) 1995-02-02 1998-10-20 Indian Head Industries Vehicle brake monitoring system
US5892437A (en) 1995-08-21 1999-04-06 University Of Washington On-board brake warning device for air brake equipped vehicles
US5808909A (en) 1995-09-15 1998-09-15 Rees; James G. Electronic brake control valve tester for rail cars and trains
US5559286A (en) 1995-10-10 1996-09-24 Eaton Corporation Vehicle friction material condition measurement system
DE19605987A1 (en) * 1996-02-17 1997-08-21 Bosch Gmbh Robert Brake device for vehicles
US5777218A (en) 1996-03-12 1998-07-07 Hydro-Aire Division Of Crane Company Monitor for uncommanded braking
JPH09257067A (en) 1996-03-19 1997-09-30 Komatsu Ltd Abrasion detection device for vehicular brake
DE19611364B4 (en) 1996-03-22 2005-10-20 Daimler Chrysler Ag Method and device for vehicle tire monitoring
US5689231A (en) 1996-04-25 1997-11-18 Olson; Ronald E. Brake monitor
US5890080A (en) 1996-06-25 1999-03-30 Freightliner Corporation Truck with monitored and resettable electronic control units
US6058343A (en) 1996-07-25 2000-05-02 Case Corporation Threshold current control system for hydraulic valves
US6006868A (en) 1996-11-14 1999-12-28 Technical Services And Marketing Inc. System for monitoring brake status on a rail car
US5835009A (en) 1996-11-19 1998-11-10 Hanisko; John-Cyril P. Single wire brake condition sensing system
IL119956A (en) * 1997-01-01 2003-11-23 Opgal Optronic Ind Ltd Brake monitoring system and method
US6009355A (en) 1997-01-28 1999-12-28 American Calcar Inc. Multimedia information and control system for automobiles
US5812053A (en) * 1997-02-21 1998-09-22 Kovack; Gary A. Brake heat gauge
US6003640A (en) 1997-05-09 1999-12-21 The B.F. Goodrich Company Electronic braking system with brake wear measurement and running clearance adjustment
US5934415A (en) 1997-05-27 1999-08-10 Dana Corporation Brake actuator service limit sensor
US5999093A (en) 1997-05-27 1999-12-07 Hanisko; John-Cyril P. Single lamp brake status indicator system
US5967266A (en) 1997-06-26 1999-10-19 Carnegie; Douglas R. Brake adjustment monitoring system
US5936153A (en) 1997-06-30 1999-08-10 National Railroad Passenger Corporation Apparatus and method for testing brake actuator units used in railroad cars
US5939978A (en) 1997-07-17 1999-08-17 Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, Llc Temperature sensing brake lining wear indicator
JPH11170991A (en) * 1997-12-16 1999-06-29 Toyota Motor Corp Electric brake abnormality judging method
US6273218B1 (en) * 1998-11-03 2001-08-14 Meritor Heavy Vehicle Systems, Llc Vehicle brake system having a sensor to measure movement
CA2262337A1 (en) * 1999-02-19 2000-08-19 Daniel Leblanc Brake wear monitoring system
US6072389A (en) 1999-09-20 2000-06-06 Strasburger; Bill Brake adjustment monitor device for automotive vehicles

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US7114596B2 (en) 2006-10-03
US20020104720A1 (en) 2002-08-08
US20030192747A1 (en) 2003-10-16
US6581728B2 (en) 2003-06-24
MXPA02001387A (en) 2004-09-27

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
US6581728B2 (en) Brake shoe proximity sensor
US6680672B2 (en) Vehicle diagnostic system
US5339069A (en) Brake monitoring system
EP2318248B1 (en) Vehicle brake monitoring system and method
US8437934B2 (en) Temperature and wear and tear sensor for brake or clutch devices
EP1762746B1 (en) Brake monitoring and control system
US4776438A (en) Brake adjustment indicator
CA2734061C (en) Vehicle brake monitoring system and method
US20050212357A1 (en) Brake monitoring and sensor system for sensing temperature and wear
CA2210182A1 (en) System for monitoring brake status on a rail car
US6250430B1 (en) System and method for determining brake lining wear using a temperature detector and a brake actuation system
JP7349504B2 (en) Wheel end brake pad wear sensor
US7175006B2 (en) Apparatus and method for sensing disc brake actuator position
JP3749584B2 (en) Wear indicating device and friction material wear amount determination method
KR20160030292A (en) Method for determining an air gap of a vehicle brake and vehicle brake having a device for determining an air gap
US6260665B1 (en) System and method for determining brake lining wear based on cooling wave propagation time
US8181752B2 (en) Brake overstroke indication system
JP5253572B2 (en) Method and system for monitoring disc brake or drum brake lining clearance
CN110199136B (en) Brake lining wear sensor
US11209055B2 (en) Caliper and support assembly and caliper deformation detection method
GB2310015A (en) Vehicle brake assemblies
JPH06280911A (en) Device and system of measuring abrasion of pad
USH2026H1 (en) Brake service signaling system
CA2652618A1 (en) Vehicle wheel sensor system and method
US20230097070A1 (en) Automatic slack adjuster for braking systems of automotive vehicles, braking system and corresponding wheels

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
EEER Examination request
FZDE Dead