Brake disc pad with retainer

Abstract

In some examples of the present disclosure, a drive bushing includes a first clamp, a second clamp, and a retainer. The first clamp is configured to slide over a first surface adjacent to a first drive slot of a brake disc in a first tangential direction of the brake disc. The second clamp is configured to slide over a second surface adjacent to a second drive slot of the brake disc in a second tangential direction of the brake disc. The retainer is configured to slide over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp and the second clamp are positioned on the brake disc to secure the first clamp and the second clamp to the brake disc.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates to wheel brake systems of vehicles. BACKGROUND

[0002] Vehicles, such as aircraft, can use wheel brake systems that include a disc stack assembly. For example, the brake system can include a plurality of rotors engaged with a wheel and a plurality of stators interleaved with the rotors. The rotors and the wheel are configured to rotate about an axis, while the stators remain rotationally stationary. To slow the rotational motion of the rotating wheel, the brake system can displace a piston to abut against a pressure plate to squeeze the rotating rotors engaged with the wheel against the stationary stators to generate a torque that slows the rotational motion of the wheel. In some examples, the rotors can be engaged with the wheel via rotor drive keys positioned on an inner surface of the wheel. In some such examples, the rotors can define slots configured to receive the rotor drive keys. SUMMARY

[0003] Generally, the present disclosure describes articles, systems, and techniques related to a drive bushing for a brake disc in a wheel brake system for a vehicle. The brake disc has two or more drive slots around a periphery of the brake disc that are configured to receive rotor drive keys of the wheel brake system. The drive bushing is configured to mechanically couple with the brake disc at the drive slots, e.g., such that a portion of the drive bushing resides within the drive slots of the brake disc. The drive bushing can be configured to help protect the brake disc from mechanical stresses experienced by the drive slots of the brake disc, e.g., during braking operations of the wheel brake system.

[0004] In examples described herein, the drive bushing includes a first clip, a second clip, and a retainer configured to secure the first clip and the second clip to the brake disc. The first clip is configured to engage a first drive slot of the brake disc, and the second clip is configured to engage a second drive slot of the brake disc different from the first drive slot. The first clip, the second clip, and the retainer are configured to secure the drive bushing to the brake disc without requiring fasteners (e.g., rivets) or other elements that penetrate the drive bushing and into the brake disc.

[0005] In examples described herein, the first clamp is configured to slide over a first surface of the brake disc, e.g., in a substantially tangential direction of the brake disc, where the first surface is adjacent to the first drive slot of the brake disc. The second clamp is configured to slide over a second surface of the brake disc, e.g., in a substantially tangential direction, the second surface being adjacent to the second drive slot of the brake disc. When the first clamp and the second clamp are positioned over respective surfaces of the brake disc, the retainer is configured to be positioned (e.g., slideable in a radial direction of the brake disc) over the first clamp and the second clamp. In some examples, the retainer is configured to provide a snap fit with the clamps.

[0006] In one example, an assembly includes: a first clamp configured to slide over a first surface of a brake disc in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, the first surface being adjacent to a first drive slot on a periphery of the brake disc; a second clamp configured to slide over a second surface of the brake disc in a second tangential direction opposite the first tangential direction, the second surface being adjacent to a second drive slot on the periphery of the brake disc; and a retainer configured to slide over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp is positioned over the first surface and the second clamp is positioned over the second surface to secure the first clamp and the second clamp to the brake disc.

[0007] In one example, an assembly includes: a brake disc defining: a first drive slot extending at least partially through a periphery of the brake disc in an axial direction of the brake disc, where a first torque face defines a portion of the first drive slot; a first surface adjacent to the first drive slot; a second drive slot extending at least partially through the periphery of the brake disc in the axial direction of the brake disc, where a second torque face defines a portion of the second drive slot; and a second surface adjacent to the second drive slot; a first clamp configured to be positioned on the brake disc by sliding over the first surface in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, where the first clamp is configured to cover at least a portion of the first torque face when the first clamp is positioned on the brake disc; a second clamp configured to be positioned on the brake disc by sliding over the second surface in a second tangential direction of the brake disc opposite the first tangential direction, where the second clamp is configured to cover at least a portion of the second torque face when the second clamp is positioned on the brake disc; and a retainer configured to slide over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp and the second clamp are positioned on the brake disc, where the retainer is configured to retain the first clamp and the second clamp on the brake disc when one of the first clamp or the second clamp is subjected to a force in a tangential direction of the brake disc.

[0008] In one example, a method includes positioning a first clamp on a brake disc, wherein positioning the first clamp on the brake disc includes sliding the first clamp over a first surface in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the first surface is adjacent to a first drive slot on a periphery of the brake disc; positioning a second clamp on the brake disc, wherein positioning the second clamp on the brake disc includes sliding the second clamp over a second surface in a second tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the second tangential direction is opposite the first tangential direction, and wherein the second surface is adjacent to a second drive slot on the periphery of the brake disc; and after positioning the first clamp and the second clamp on the brake disc, positioning a retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp, wherein positioning the retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp includes sliding the retainer over the first clamp and sliding the retainer over the second clamp.

[0009] The details of one or more examples are set forth in the accompanying drawings and the description below. Other features, objects, and advantages will be apparent from the description and drawings, and from the claims. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] Figure 1 is a perspective view of an example wheel showing a plurality of rotor drive keys included on an inner surface of the wheel.

[0011] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of an example wheel and brake system including Figure 1 .

[0012] Figure 3 is a plan view of an example brake disc showing a plurality of drive slots.

[0013] Figure 4 is a schematic view of an example drive bushing and a portion of an example brake disc.

[0014] Figure 5 is a schematic view of a drive bushing of Figure 4 positioned on a brake disc.

[0015] Figure 6 is an isometric view of a segment of an example brake disc.

[0016] Figure 7 is an isometric view of an example first clamp and a portion of an example retainer of a drive bushing.

[0017] Figure 8A is a front view of a first clamp of Figure 7 .

[0018] Figure 8B is a front view of a first clamp of Figure 7a side view of the first clamp.

[0019] Figure 8C a top view of the first clamp. Figure 7

[0020] Figure 9A a front view of an example retainer that drives a bushing.

[0021] Figure 9B a side view of the retainer. Figure 9A

[0022] Figure 9C a top view of the retainer. Figure 9A

[0023] Figure 10 a flowchart illustrating an example technique of installing a drive bushing that includes a first clamp, a second clamp, and a retainer. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0024] The present disclosure describes articles, systems, and techniques related to drive bushings for brake discs in wheel brake systems for vehicles. The drive bushings described herein are configured to mechanically couple to a brake disc, which can be one of a plurality of brake discs of a brake disc stack of a brake system. The brake disc defines a plurality of drive slots about a perimeter of the brake disc, and the drive bushing is configured to mechanically couple with the brake disc at a first drive slot and a second drive slot of the plurality of brake discs. The drive bushing is configured such that at least some portion of the drive bushing resides between a drive slot of the brake disc and a rotor drive key extending through the brake disc when the brake disc is assembled within the brake system. For example, the drive bushing can be configured such that a portion of the drive bushing resides between the first drive slot and a first rotor drive key extending through the first drive slot, and such that a portion of the drive bushing resides between the second drive slot and a second rotor drive key extending through the second drive slot. The drive bushing can be configured to protect the brake disc from mechanical stresses experienced by the first drive slot and the second drive slot of the brake disc, for example, during braking operations of the brake system.

[0025] ​​​The drive bushing can be configured to mechanically couple to the brake disc in a manner that limits movement of the drive bushing relative to the brake disc without requiring fasteners (e.g., rivets) or other elements that penetrate the drive bushing and into the brake disc. Rivets and other fasteners that attach the drive bushing to the brake rotor can fatigue due to cyclic vibrations and stresses that occur during repeated braking operations. This can result in rivet failure and compromise of the attachment between the drive bushing and the brake disc, as well as the presence of loose hardware floating within the brake system. Additionally, rivets and other through fasteners can necessarily require holes through the surface of the brake disc, which can compromise the surface integrity of the brake disc, and stress concentrations can occur around the holes when the brake disc is subjected to braking loads and / or when the rivet shank expands within the rivet hole to provide the fastening function during installation. The drive bushing disclosed herein is configured to mechanically engage the brake disc to substantially fix the drive bushing (relative to the brake disc) against movement in radial, axial, and tangential directions of the brake disc without requiring additional fasteners (e.g., rivets). However, additional fasteners can be used in some cases if desired.

[0026] As used herein, the axial direction of the brake disc means the direction substantially parallel to a disc axis A about which the brake disc is configured to rotate. Figure 1 The radial direction of the brake disc means the direction substantially parallel to the radial distance in a cylindrical coordinate system when the disc axis A is a cylindrical axis in the cylindrical coordinate system. The tangential direction of the brake disc means the direction perpendicular to the axial direction and perpendicular to the radial direction.

[0027] In some examples, the drive bushing is configured to mechanically engage a rotor brake disc within a disc stack of a brake system configured to decelerate a vehicle wheel. The wheel can include a plurality of rotor drive keys each configured to extend through a drive slot on a periphery of the rotor disc. At least a portion of the drive bushing is configured to be positioned between the rotor drive keys and the drive slots such that forces transmitted between the rotor drive keys and the drive slots are transmitted through the portion of the drive bushing. For example, the rotor drive keys can rotationally couple the wheel and the rotor disc such that the rotor disc rotates substantially in synchrony with the wheel. When the brake system compresses the disc stack, the rotor disc frictionally engages a stator disc configured to remain substantially stationary relative to the wheel, thereby creating a shear force and transmitting a torque from the rotor disc to the rotor drive keys that is opposite in rotation to the wheel. As the rotor disc transmits the opposite torque through the rotor drive keys, the drive bushing can mechanically engage the brake disc to substantially fix the drive bushing (relative to the brake disc).

[0028] In examples described herein, a drive bushing includes a first clamp, a second clamp, and a retainer. The first clamp is configured to engage a first drive slot of a brake disc. For example, the first clamp can be configured to slide over a first surface of the brake disc, e.g., in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, where the first surface is adjacent to the first drive slot on an outer periphery of the brake disc. The second clamp is configured to engage a second drive slot of the brake disc, e.g., adjacent to the first drive slot. The second clamp can be configured to slide over a second surface of the brake disc, where the second surface is adjacent to the second drive slot on the outer periphery of the brake disc. For example, the second clamp can be configured to slide over the second surface in a second tangential direction of the brake disc opposite the first tangential direction. The retainer is configured to slide over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp is positioned over the first surface and the second clamp is positioned over the second surface to secure the first clamp and the second clamp to the brake disc.

[0029] In some examples, the first clamp and / or the second clamp is configured to be coupled to the brake disc in a manner that minimizes or even prevents movement thereof relative to the brake disc in a radial direction of the brake disc. For example, a clamp (e.g., the first clamp and / or the second clamp) can define a gap (e.g., between the first arm and the second arm) that is configured to receive a portion of the brake disc when the clamp is positioned on the brake disc. When the gap defined by the clamp receives the portion of the brake disc, the clamp can be configured to substantially conform to a cross-sectional profile of the brake disc to substantially secure the drive bushing against movement in the radial direction of the brake disc. For example, the brake disc can be configured such that a cross-sectional profile in a plane defined by the radial direction and an axial direction of the brake disc expands outward as a radius defined by the brake disc increases. The clamp can be configured to substantially conform to the cross-sectional profile when positioned over a surface of the brake disc such that the outward expansion of the cross-sectional profile helps to minimize movement of the clamp relative to the brake disc in the radial direction relative to the brake disc.

[0030] In addition to, or instead of, minimizing or preventing movement of the drive hub relative to the brake disc in the radial direction of the brake disc, the first clamp and / or the second clamp can be configured to secure the drive hub relative to the brake disc to minimize or even prevent movement of the drive hub relative to the brake disc in the axial direction of the brake disc. For example, the clamp (e.g., the first clamp and / or the second clamp) can be configured to mechanically engage a first side of the brake disc (e.g., a side defining the first surface) and mechanically engage a second side of the brake disc opposite the first side. For example, the clamp can be configured to mechanically engage the first side and the second side when a gap defined by the clamp receives the portion of the brake disc. The clamp can wrap around the brake disc from the first side to the second side when a portion of the clamp extends through a respective drive slot of the brake disc. The clamp can be configured such that when the clamp experiences movement in the axial direction of the brake disc, the clamp contacts the first side and / or the second side of the brake disc to substantially stop continued movement in the axial direction.

[0031] The retainer is configured to secure the first clamp and the second clamp against movement relative to the wheel in the tangential direction of the wheel. The retainer is configured to extend from the first clamp to the second clamp when the first clamp is positioned within the first drive slot and the second clamp is positioned within the second drive slot. For example, the retainer can extend from the first clamp to the second clamp over a portion of the perimeter of the brake disc. The retainer is configured to limit tangential movement of the first clamp relative to the second clamp (or vice versa) such that the first clamp and the second clamp are substantially secured against tangential movement relative to the brake disc. In some examples, the retainer is configured to mechanically engage a bearing surface of the clamp (e.g., the first clamp or the second clamp) when causing the clamp to move in the tangential direction of the brake disc. The retainer can be configured to exert a counterforce on the clamp in an opposite direction to the tangential direction to limit movement. In some examples, the drive hub is configured such that the first clamp limits movement of the retainer and the second clamp in a first tangential direction, and the second clamp limits movement of the retainer and the first clamp in a second tangential direction, such that the drive hub (e.g., the first clamp, the second clamp, and the retainer) is substantially secured against movement in the first tangential direction or the second tangential direction.

[0032] Accordingly, the drive hub described herein can be configured to mechanically engage the brake disc to help secure the drive hub against movement relative to the brake disc in the radial, axial, and tangential directions of the brake disc without the need for additional fasteners (e.g., rivets). As described above, the first clamp and / or the second clamp can be configured to secure the drive hub against movement relative to the brake disc in the radial and axial directions of the brake disc, and the retainer can be configured to secure the drive hub against movement relative to the brake disc in the tangential direction of the brake disc.

[0033] The drive bushing can be configured to mechanically engage the rotor drive key, which is configured to rotatably connect the brake disc and the carrier wheel. The drive bushing can be configured to mechanically engage the rotor brake disc when the rotor brake disc transmits a torque (e.g., shear force due to contact with the stator disc) through the drive bushing in the opposite direction to the wheel rotation.

[0034] Figure 1 This is a perspective view showing an exemplary wheel 10. In some examples, wheel 10 is part of an aircraft vehicle. In other examples, wheel 10 may be part of any other vehicle, such as any land vehicle or other vehicle. Figure 1 In the example shown, wheel 10 includes a wheel rim 12 defining an outer surface 14 and an inner surface 16. Wheel rim 12 includes a manhole 18 and a wheel hub 20. In some examples, the inner surface 16 may include the inner diameter of the manhole 18 of wheel 10. For example, in some cases, the inner surface 16 may be referred to as the inner diameter surface of wheel 10. The inner surface 16 and wheel hub 20 may define a wheel cavity 22 (e.g., volume) between the inner surface 16 and the wheel hub 20. In some examples, a tire (not shown) may be mounted on the outer surface 14 of rim 12. Wheel 10 may include an inner bead seat 24 and an outer bead seat 26 configured to retain the tire on the outer surface 14 of rim 12. In the example, wheel 10 may include an inner section 28 (e.g., including the inner bead seat 24) and an outer section 30 (e.g., including the outer bead seat 26). Wheel 10 is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation A. The axial direction A1 of wheel 10 is parallel to the axis of rotation A.

[0035] The wheel 10 includes a plurality of rotor drive keys 32, such as rotor drive keys 34 and rotor drive keys 36, on an inner surface 16 of the wheel 10. In some examples, each of the plurality of rotor drive keys 32 extends in an axial direction A1 of the wheel 10 (e.g., in a direction parallel to the axis of rotation A). The plurality of rotor drive keys 32 (“rotor drive keys 32”) and the inner surface 16 are configured to be substantially stationary relative to each other, such that when the wheel 10 (and the inner surface 16) rotates about the axis of rotation A, each of the rotor drive keys (e.g., rotor drive keys 34, 36) translates about the axis of rotation A over a closed path. Thus, when the wheel 10, the inner surface 16, and the rotor drive keys 32 rotate about the axis of rotation A, a force acting in the opposite direction of rotation on one or more of the rotor drive keys 32 acts to slow down or stop the rotation. The rotor drive keys 32 may be configured to receive torque from a braking system (not shown) configured to reduce and / or stop the rotation of the wheel 10. The rotor drive key 32 may be integrally formed with the inner surface 16, or it may be separate from the inner surface 16 and mechanically attached to the inner surface.

[0036] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a vehicle wheel 10 and an example brake system 40. The vehicle wheel 10 includes a vehicle wheel rim 12, an outer surface 14, an inner surface 16, a vehicle wheel cavity 22, a vehicle wheel hub 20, an inboard bead seat 24, an outboard bead seat 26, an inboard section 28, an outboard section 30, and a rotor drive key 34. Figure 2 The vehicle wheel rim 12 is shown as a split rim vehicle wheel, with lug bolts 42 and lug nuts 44 connecting the inboard section 28 and the outboard section 30, however in other examples the vehicle wheel rim 12 can utilize other configurations (e.g., a unibody vehicle wheel rim). The vehicle wheel 10 and brake system 40 are shown and described to provide context for the example drive bushings described herein. However, in other examples, the drive bushings described herein can be used with any suitable vehicle wheel and brake system.

[0037] The vehicle wheel 10 is configured to rotate about an axis A that extends through the axial assembly 46. The axial assembly 46 is configured to support the vehicle wheel 10 while allowing the vehicle wheel 10 to rotate about the axis A using bearings 48 and 50. For example, the bearings 48, 50 can define a substantially circular orbit about the axial assembly 46. A torque tube 52 is coupled to the axial assembly 46 (e.g., via bolts 54, 56) such that the torque tube 52 remains substantially stationary as the vehicle wheel 10 rotates about the axial assembly 46 and the axis A. The torque tube 52 can at least partially surround an exterior of the axial assembly 46. The axial assembly 46 can be mechanically coupled to a structure (e.g., a strut) attached to a vehicle.

[0038] In Figure 2In the illustrated example, the brake system 40 is positioned within the wheel 10 and is configured to engage the torque tube 52 and the rotor drive key 34. The brake system 40 is configured to generate a torque to resist rotation of the wheel 10 about the axis A and to transmit the torque to the rotor drive key 34, thereby reducing and / or eliminating rotation of the wheel 10 about the axis A. The brake system 40 includes a disk stack 58 that includes one or more rotor disks (e.g., rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63) and one or more stator disks (e.g., stator disks 64, 65, 66). The rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 and / or the stator disks 64, 65, 66 can have any suitable configuration. For example, the rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 and / or the stator disks 64, 65, 66 can each be a substantially annular disk about the axial assembly 46. The stator disks 64, 65, 66 are coupled to the torque tube 52 via splines 68 and remain rotationally stationary relative to the torque tube 52 (and the axial assembly 46) as the wheel 10 rotates. The rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 are rotationally coupled to the rotor drive key 34 and the inner surface 16 and rotate substantially in synchronization with the wheel 10 about the axis A. For example, the rotor drive key 34 can be configured to extend through drive slots on a periphery of one or more of the rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 to cause the rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 to rotate substantially in synchronization with the wheel 10. The disk stack 58 can include any number of rotor disks and stator disks.

[0039] The rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 and / or the stator disks 64, 65, 66 can be configured to provide a relative frictional surface for braking a vehicle, such as an aircraft. Compression of the disk stack 58 (e.g., between the pressure plate 70 and the back plate 72) can cause the relative frictional surface to contact, thereby creating a shear force between the rotor disks rotating substantially in synchronization with the wheel 10 and the stator disks remaining substantially stationary relative to the torque tube 52. The shear force can cause the rotor disks (e.g., rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63) engaged with the rotor drive key 34 to exert a torque on the rotor drive key 34 that is opposite the rotation of the wheel 10. The rotor disks can use the drive slots through which the rotor drive key 34 extends to exert the opposite torque on the rotor drive key 34.

[0040] In examples, the rotor disk (e.g., rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63) includes a drive bushing positioned within the drive slot. The drive bushing can be configured to transmit a counter-torque from the rotor disk to the rotor drive key 34. For example, the drive bushing can be configured such that a portion of the drive bushing resides within the drive slot of the brake disk and is positioned between the drive slot and the brake disk. The drive bushing is configured to allow the rotor disk to translate in a direction substantially parallel to the axis A when the disk stack 58 is compressed. The drive bushing can be configured to help protect the rotor disk (or other brake disk in other examples) from mechanical stresses borne by the drive slot of the rotor disk, for example, when the rotor disk applies a counter-torque to the rotor drive key 34 (e.g., during braking of the wheel 10).

[0041] The actuator 74 is configured to compress the disk stack 58 to bring the opposing friction surfaces of the rotor disks 60, 61, 62, 63 into contact with the friction surfaces of the stator disks 64, 65, 66. The actuator 74 can be configured to translate the piston 76 relative to a body 78 of the actuator 74 to compress the disk stack 58. The actuator 74 can use any suitable method to translate the piston 76. In some examples, the actuator 74 is configured to translate the piston 76 by supplying pressurized hydraulic fluid to a piston chamber and / or expelling pressurized hydraulic fluid from the piston chamber. Additionally or conversely, in some examples, the actuator 74 is configured to translate the piston 76 by motion (e.g., rotational motion) generated by an electric motor.

[0042] The wheel 10 can be used with any kind of private, commercial, or military aircraft or other type of vehicle. The wheel 10 can be mounted to a vehicle via, for example, the axial assembly 46 or some other suitable arrangement that allows the wheel 10 to rotate about the axis A. The axial assembly 46 can be mounted on a strut of a landing gear (not shown) or other suitable component of the vehicle to connect the wheel 10 to the vehicle. The wheel 10 can rotate about the axis A and the axial assembly 46 to impart motion to the vehicle. The wheel 10 is shown and described to provide context for the brake system described herein, however, in other examples, the brake system described herein can be used with any suitable wheel assembly.

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic view showing an example brake disk 80, which can be an example of one or more brake disks in the disk stack 58 ( Figure 2 ) of the wheel 10. For example, the brake disk 80 can be a rotor disk 60, 61, 62, 63 ( Figure 2Examples of one or more rotor discs in the image. A brake disc 80 defines a central bore 82 extending through the brake disc 80. The central bore 82 is configured to allow the brake disc 80 to rotate about an axis A perpendicular to that shown on the page. The brake disc 80 further defines a plurality of drive slots surrounding an outer periphery 84 (“outer periphery 84”) of the brake disc 80. These drive slots include, for example, drive slots 86 and 88, and other drive slots similarly depicted. The brake disc 80 also includes a friction surface 90 on a first side 91 (“first side 91”) of the brake disc 80 and may include a second friction surface (not shown) on a side opposite to the first side 91.

[0044] The brake disc 80 is configured to rotate substantially around axis A. The radial direction R intersects and is perpendicular to axis A. The inward radial direction R1 of the brake disc 80 is a first vector coinciding with the radial direction R and having a direction toward axis A. The outward radial direction R2 is a second vector having a direction opposite to the first vector. The first tangential direction T1 of the brake disc 80 is a third vector defined at a 90-degree angle to the first vector defining the inward radial direction R1. The second tangential direction T2 is a fourth vector opposite to the third vector. Figure 3 In the diagram, the radial direction R is shown defined at an angle θ to the reference axis AZ. The radial direction can be oriented relative to the brake disc 80 to define any angle θ to the reference axis AZ. For example, a particular radial direction R can define an angle θ such that the radial direction R intersects with drive groove 88, drive groove 86, any other drive groove on the brake disc 80, any point on the outer periphery 84 of the disc, or any point on the brake disc 80. An inward radial direction R1, an outward radial direction R2, a first tangential direction T1, and a second tangential direction T2 can be defined relative to a particular radial direction R.

[0045] The plurality of drive slots, such as 86, 88, are configured to accommodate a plurality of drive keys, such as a plurality of rotor drive keys 32. Figure 1 ) Extends through drive slots 86 and 88. For example, Figure 3 A portion of the rotor drive key 92 is shown, extending through the drive slot 86. The rotor drive key 92 can be a plurality of rotor drive keys 32. Figure 1 Such as rotor drive key 34 ( Figure 2 The rotor drive key is located within the brake disc 80. The drive slot 86 may be configured such that the rotor drive key 92 extends through the drive slot 86 in the axial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., a direction substantially parallel to axis A, e.g., parallel or nearly parallel within manufacturing tolerances). One or more drive slots (e.g., a subgroup of drive slots or all drive slots) defined by the brake disc 80 may have a portion of a corresponding rotor drive key that extends through the drive slot in a manner similar to that depicted for drive slot 86 and rotor drive key 92.

[0046] The rotor drive key 92 is configured such that when the rotor drive key 92 is rotating in synchronization with the wheel (e.g., the wheel 10( Figure 1 and Figure 2 )) the rotor drive key applies a force to the brake disc 80 in a tangential direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., in the first tangential direction T1 or the second tangential direction T2) to cause the brake disc 80 to rotate about the axis A. The brake disc 80 is configured such that when a shear force is created on the friction surface 90 (e.g., due to a frictional engagement with the stator disc) the drive slot 86 exerts a force on the rotor drive key 92 (e.g., in the first tangential direction T1 or the second tangential direction T2) that is opposite to the synchronous rotation of the rotor drive key 92 with the wheel 10.

[0047] One or more of the plurality of drive slots (e.g., all) defined by the brake disc 80 (including the slots 86, 88) can be reinforced by a drive bushing such as the drive bushing assembly 100 within the drive slot 86. While the drive bushing assembly 100 and the drive slot 86 are primarily described in the context of the brake disc 80 and other figures, the description of the drive bushing assembly 100 and the drive slot 86 can apply to other drive slots and drive bushings of the brake disc 80 and other brake discs described herein. Additionally, while the brake disc 80 is primarily described in the context of the brake disc 80 and other figures, the drive bushings described herein can also be used on drive slots of one or more of the stator brake discs such as the stator brake discs 64, 65, 66( Figure 3 ). Figure 3 Figure 2 While the brake disc 80 is primarily described in the context of the brake disc 80 and other figures, the drive bushing assembly 100 and the drive slot 86 can apply to other drive slots and drive bushings of the brake disc 80 and other brake discs described herein. Additionally, while the brake disc 80 is primarily described in the context of the brake disc 80 and other figures, the drive bushings described herein can also be used on drive slots of one or more of the stator brake discs such as the stator brake discs 64, 65, 66(

[0048] The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to minimize or even eliminate the extent to which the rotor drive key 92 directly engages the surface of the brake disc 80 during a braking operation. The drive bushing 100 can be configured to provide a sliding surface and a bearing surface to act against the rotor drive key 92 during a braking operation such that the drive bushing assembly 100 minimizes or even eliminates the engagement. The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to substantially cover certain areas (e.g., all or a portion) of the drive slot 86 and is configured to be mounted on the brake disc 80 such that the drive bushing assembly 100 is positioned between the rotor drive key 92 and the drive slot 86 when the drive slot 86 exerts a tangential force on the rotor drive key 92 during a braking operation and / or when the rotor drive key 92 exerts a tangential force on the drive slot 86 to drive rotation of the brake disc 80. The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to provide a secure placement within the drive slot 86 in the axial direction, the radial direction, and the tangential direction of the brake disc 80 in order to facilitate the rotation of the wheel 10( Figure 1 , Figure 2 ​) rotates relative to the drive slot 86. The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to be relatively securely mechanically coupled to the brake disc 80 in the absence of a rivet (e.g., rivetless) or other fastening mechanism that penetrates the brake disc 80. Use of the drive bushing assembly 100 can reduce wear of the drive slot 86 due to the rotor drive key 92 loading the drive slot 86 during repeated braking operations.

[0049] Figure 4 and Figure 5 An example drive bushing assembly 100 is shown that includes a retainer 104, a first clamp 106, and a second clamp 108. Figure 4 is a partial exploded view showing the retainer 104 separated from the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 positioned on a portion of the brake disc 80. The first clamp 106 is positioned substantially above an edge 101 (shown in dashed lines) of the drive slot 86. The first clamp 106 is configured to be positioned within the drive slot 86 by slidably translating above the brake disc 80 in a first tangential direction T1. The second clamp 108 is positioned substantially above an edge 103 (shown in dashed lines) of the drive slot 88. The second clamp 108 is configured to be positioned within the drive slot 88 by slidably translating above the brake disc 80 in a second tangential direction T2. The retainer 104 is configured to slide over (e.g., in an inward radial direction R1) and mechanically engage the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 when the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 are positioned on the brake disc 80 in the respective drive slots 86, 88. An axial direction A1 is perpendicular to the page. In Figure 4 and Figure 5 In, the axial direction A1 is directed inwardly into the page, but this is not required. In other examples, the axial direction A1 can be directed outwardly from the page.

[0050] Figure 5 is shown positioned over the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 while the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 are positioned in the respective drive slots 86, 88 of the brake disc 80. Example portions 80A and 80B of the brake disc 80 are shown in dashed lines for reference. The portion 80A includes the edge 101, and the portion 80B includes the edge 103. In some examples, the retainer 104 includes a first end section 110 configured to mechanically engage the first clamp 106 and a second end section 112 configured to mechanically engage the second clamp 108. The first end section 110 can be mechanically engaged (e.g., attached) to a first end 111 of the retainer 104. The second end section 112 can be mechanically engaged (e.g., attached) to a second end 113 of the retainer 104 opposite the first end 111. As shown in, the first end section 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106, and the second end section 112 is positioned over the second clamp 108. In some examples, the first end section 110 and the second end section 112 are integrally formed with the retainer 104. In other examples, the first end section 110 and the second end section 112 are mechanically coupled to the retainer 104 (e.g., attached to the retainer 104). Figure 5As shown, in some examples, the retainer 104 is configured to substantially conform to the outer periphery 84 of the disk when the retainer 104 mechanically engages the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108. For example, the retainer 104 may be relatively flexible and configured to take the shape of the outer periphery 84 when the retainer 104 is positioned above the outer periphery 84. In other examples, the retainer 104 may be rigid and pre-shaped to conform to the shape of the outer periphery 84 even when the retainer 104 is not positioned above the outer periphery 84.

[0051] The first clamp 106 is configured to engage the brake disc 80 to restrict movement of the first clamp 106 relative to the brake disc 80 in a first tangential direction T1, and to restrict movement of the first clamp 106 relative to the brake disc 80 in an inward radial direction R1 and an outward radial direction R2. The second clamp 108 is similarly configured to engage the brake disc 80 to restrict movement of the second clamp 108 relative to the brake disc 80 in a second tangential direction T2, and to restrict movement of the second clamp 108 relative to the brake disc 80 in an inward radial direction R1 and an outward radial direction R2. In the example, the first clamp 106 and / or the second clamp 108 are configured to engage the first side 91 of the disc and the second side 93 of the brake disc 80 opposite to the first side 91 (“second side 93”), to, for example, restrict movement of the respective clamp in the axial direction A of the brake disc 80.

[0052] Retainer 104 includes an intermediate section 114 extending between a first end section 110 and a second end section 112. When retainer 104 mechanically engages the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 (e.g., as...), Figure 5 As shown, retainer 104 is configured such that intermediate section 114 restricts movement of retainer 104 relative to brake disc 80 in tangential directions T1, T2. Furthermore, when retainer 104 mechanically engages first clamp 106 and second clamp 108, retainer 104 can restrict movement of first clamp 106 relative to brake disc 80 in the second tangential direction T2, and restrict movement of second clamp 108 relative to brake disc 80 in the first tangential direction T1. Therefore, first clamp 106, second clamp 108, and retainer 104 are configured to be positioned on brake disc 80 to restrict relative movement between drive bushing assembly 100 and brake disc 80 in the inward radial direction R1, outward radial direction R2, first tangential direction T1, second tangential direction T2, and axial direction of brake disc 80. In the examples described herein, "restricting movement" can refer to preventing or reducing movement.

[0053] Further, the first clamp 106, the second clamp 108, and the retainer 104 are configured to mechanically engage the brake disc 80 and / or another portion of the drive bushing assembly 100 such that the drive bushing assembly 100 is substantially fixed relative to the disc 80 without the need for fasteners (e.g., rivets) or other elements that penetrate the drive bushing assembly 100 and into the brake disc 80.

[0054] The intermediate section 114 of the retainer 104 can be an elongated member that extends from the first section 110 to the second section 112. Together, the first section 110, the second section 112, and the intermediate section 114 have a length that enables the retainer 104 to extend from the first drive slot 86 of the brake disc 80 to the second drive slot 88 of the brake disc 80. In some examples, as shown, the first drive slot 86 is circumferentially adjacent to the second drive slot 88 (e.g., there are no intervening drive slots between the first and second drive slots on the disc outer periphery 84). However, in other examples, one or more drive slots can be positioned between the first drive slot 86 and the second drive slot 88. The retainer 104 can be configured to substantially match a curvature of a portion of the disc outer periphery 84 (e.g., the portion between the drive slots 86 and 88). In examples, the intermediate section 114 is configured to flex (e.g., elastically and / or plastically deform) to substantially match the curvature when the first end section 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106 and the second end section 112 is positioned over the second clamp 108. In some examples, the retainer 104 has a pre-set curvature that substantially matches the curvature of the portion of the outer periphery 84. Figure 5

[0055] In some examples, the first end section 110, the second end section 112, and / or the intermediate section 114 are formed as physically separate from one another and subsequently attached to define the drive bushing assembly 100. In other examples, the first end section 110, the second end section 112, and / or the intermediate section 114 have a unitary body configuration, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece. For example, the first end section 110, the second end section 112, and / or the intermediate section 114 can be configured as a single piece formed from, e.g., a sheet of metal stock. Configuring the first end section 110, the second end section 112, and / or the intermediate section 114 as a single piece can reduce and / or eliminate the need for mechanical joints produced by welding, riveting, and / or other fastening methods. Such mechanical joints can be compromised under vibrations and other conditions produced during braking operations of the brake system 40 Figure 2 ), potentially reducing the durability of the drive bushing assembly 100.

[0056] As shown, the first end section 110 includes a first end 116 and a second end 118. The first end 116 is configured to be positioned over the first clamp 106. The second end 118 is configured to be positioned over the second clamp 108. The first end section 110 can be configured to substantially match a curvature of a portion of the disc outer periphery 84 (e.g., the portion between the drive slots 86 and 88). In examples, the first end section 110 is configured to flex (e.g., elastically and / or plastically deform) to substantially match the curvature when the first end 116 is positioned over the first clamp 106 and the second end 118 is positioned over the second clamp 108. In some examples, the first end section 110 has a pre-set curvature that substantially matches the curvature of the portion of the outer periphery 84. Figure 5 ​As shown, retainer 104 can be configured to substantially cover a portion of disc outer periphery 84 when drive bushing assembly 100 is installed on brake disc 80. As such, retainer 104 can help protect disc outer periphery 84 during installation and / or operation of brake disc 80 in brake system 40 or during other time periods. For example, retainer 104 can be configured to absorb some or substantially all of the impact forces on retainer 104 such that retainer 104 transmits reduced force (or substantially no force) to brake disc 80 as a result of the impact. Retainer 104 can be configured to protect disc outer periphery 84 from scratches, abrasions, cuts, and other events that can affect the surface integrity of disc outer periphery 84. In examples, retainer 104 is configured to protect disc outer periphery 84 from oxidation or other processes. For example, retainer 104 can be configured to engage (e.g., frictionally engage) a portion of disc outer periphery 84 when installed on brake disc 80 such that retainer 104 limits disc outer periphery 84 from being directly exposed to the environment surrounding brake disc 80.

[0057] Figure 6 and Figure 7 Additional details of drive bushing assembly 100 are shown as well as an example of how drive bushing assembly 100 can be connected to brake disc 80. Figure 6 A section of brake disc 80 and a section of drive slot 86 defined by brake disc 80 are shown. Figure 7 A portion of example drive bushing assembly 100 is shown that shows a portion of retainer 104 having first end section 110 and middle section 114, and first clamp 106 is shown. Inward radial direction Rl, outward radial direction R2, first tangential direction Tl, second tangential direction T2, and axial direction Al are shown for reference. Figure 7 An exploded perspective view of, for example, first clamp 106 and a portion of retainer 104 is shown. While primarily discussed with reference to drive slot 86, first end section 110, and first clamp 106, Figure 6 and Figure 7 However, drive slot 88 of brake disc 80 and other drive slots can be similarly configured to drive slot 86, second end section 112 of retainer 104 can be similarly configured to first end section 110, and second clamp 108 can be similarly configured to first clamp 106.

[0058] Drive slot 86 includes torque face 102 that can be positioned along disc outer periphery 84. Torque face 102 defines a portion of drive slot 86 and is configured to carry torque forces from rotor drive key (e.g., rotor drive key 92 Figure 3) applied (e.g., in the second tangential direction T2). The torque face 102 can have any suitable orientation relative to the radial directions Rl, R2 and the tangential directions Tl, T2. In some examples, the torque face 102 is tilted relative to the inward radial direction Rl such that a vector parallel to the torque face 102 defines a slope AR1 / AT1, where AR1 is the absolute value of a displacement in the inward radial direction Rl and AT1 is the absolute value of a displacement in a direction parallel to the first tangential direction Tl.

[0059] The brake disc 80 includes a first surface 118 and a back surface 117 that is adjacent to the drive slot 86 and faces in a direction opposite the first surface 118. The first surface 118 can be defined by the disc first side 91 and the back surface 117 can be defined by the disc second side 93. In some examples, the torque face 102, the disc outer periphery 84, and / or other portions of the brake disc 80 separate the first surface 118 and the back surface 117. In some examples, the first surface 118, the back surface 117, and / or the torque face 102 are configured to help secure the first clamp 106 when the first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80, preventing it from moving in the outward radial direction R2. For example, the brake disc 80 can be configured to define a displacement Dl between the first surface 118 and the back surface 117 and / or on the torque face 102. The displacement Dl can be substantially parallel to the axis A of the brake disc 80. The brake disc 80 can be configured such that the displacement Dl increases in the outward radial direction R2, such that the first surface 118, the back surface 117, and / or the torque face 102 expand substantially outward in the axial direction as the radial distance from the axis A increases.

[0060] In some examples, the brake disc 80 includes a flange 121 that defines a surface configured to face in the outward radial direction R2. The flange 121 can be configured to limit movement of a clamp (e.g., the first clamp 106 or the second clamp 108) in the inward radial direction Rl when the clamp contacts the flange 121. In examples, the flange 121 is configured to form a corner (e.g., a substantially sharp or rounded corner) with the first surface 118. In some examples, the flange 121 can be substantially perpendicular to the disc first side 91 and / or the disc second side 93. The brake disc 80 can include a back flange 123. The back flange 123 can be configured relative to the back surface 117 and / or the brake disc 80 in the same manner as the flange 121 is configured relative to the first surface 118 and / or the brake disc 80.

[0061] In some examples, the brake disc 80 includes a step 125 that defines a surface configured to face in the second tangential direction T2. In examples, the step 125 is configured to form a corner (e.g., a substantially sharp or rounded corner) with the first surface 118 and / or the flange 121. In some examples, the step 125 can be substantially perpendicular to the flange 121 and / or substantially perpendicular to the disc first side 91 and / or the disc second side 93. The brake disc 80 can include a back step 127. The back step 127 can be configured relative to the back surface 117, the back flange 123, and / or the brake disc 80 in the same manner as the step 125 is configured relative to the first surface 118, the flange 121, and / or the brake disc 80.

[0062] The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to be secured within the drive slot 86 of the brake disc 80. The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to be mounted on the brake disc 80 such that the drive bushing assembly 100 is positioned between the rotor drive key (e.g., the rotor drive key 92) and the drive slot 86 when the brake disc 80 is mounted on the wheel 10. For example, the first clamp 106 can be configured to be positioned between the torque face 102 and the rotor drive key 92 when the brake disc 80 is mounted on the wheel 10. Thus, the drive bushing assembly 100 is positioned between the rotor drive key 92 and the drive slot 86 when the drive slot 86 exerts a tangential force on the rotor drive key 92 during a braking operation and / or when the rotor drive key 92 exerts a tangential force on the drive slot 86 to cause rotation of the brake disc 80. The drive bushing assembly 100 is configured to reinforce the drive slot 86 to help minimize any adverse effects on the brake disc 80 caused by the rotor drive key 92 exerting a force on the drive slot 86 or by the drive slot 86 exerting a force on the rotor drive key 92.

[0063] The first clamp 106 is configured to be slidable over a surface of the brake disc 80 in the first tangential direction T1 of the brake disc 80, where the surface of the brake disc 80 is adjacent to the drive slot 86 on the disc outer periphery 84. For example, the first clamp 106 can be configured to be slidable over the first surface 118 of the brake disc 80 in the first tangential direction T1. The retainer 104 (e.g., the first end section 110) is configured to be slidable over the first clamp 106 when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 (or other surface in other examples). For example, the first end section 110 can be configured to be slidable over the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1 when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 to place the retainer 104 in position relative to the first clamp 106 to help retain the first clamp 106 in place relative to the brake disc 80. As Figure 7As shown, the retainer 104 defines a channel 119 configured to receive the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is slid over the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1. The retainer 104 can be used to secure the first clamp 106 to the brake disc 80 to minimize axial, radial, and / or tangential movement of the clamp 106 relative to the brake disc 80.

[0064] In Figure 7 In the example shown, the first clamp 106 includes a body segment 120 that includes a drive face 122 and a back face 124. The drive face 122 and the back face 124 are surfaces of the body segment 120. The back face 124 is opposite the drive face 122 such that a portion of the body segment 120 separates the back face 124 from the drive face 122. The back face 124 can be configured to engage the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80 when the clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 of the brake disc 80. The first clamp 106 can include a first arm 126 extending from the body segment 120. The first clamp 106 can be configured such that the first arm 126 at least partially covers the first surface 118 when the body segment 120 (e.g., the back face 124) is engaged (e.g., directly or indirectly contacts) the brake disc 80. In some examples, there can be a displacement between the body segment 120 and the brake disc 80 when the first arm 126 at least partially covers the first surface 118.

[0065] The drive face 122 and the back face 124 can be disjoint surfaces of the body segment 120. For example, the back face 124 is configured to engage (e.g., frictionally engage) the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80 when the clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118. In some examples, the back face 124 is configured to conform (e.g., define a mating surface or otherwise conform to) to the torque face 102 completely or partially when the clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118. In some examples, the torque face 102 defines a torque face surface area and the back face 124 defines a back face surface area. The back face 124 can contact at least 70% of the torque face surface area when the clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118, within manufacturing tolerances, in other examples at least 80%, and in other examples at least 90%, such as 100% or nearly 100%.

[0066] The first clamp 106 is configured to mechanically engage the disc first side 91 and the disc second side 93 when the back face 124 engages the torque face 102 and / or the first arm 126 engages the first surface 118. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the first arm 126 can be configured to engage the first surface 118 of the brake disc 80 when the back face 124 engages the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80. In some examples, the first arm 126 can be configured to engage the first surface 118 of the brake disc 80 when the back face 124 engages the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80 and the first arm 126 engages the first surface 118 of the brake disc 80. Figure 7As shown, when a portion of the first clamp 106 (e.g., the body segment 120) extends through the drive groove 86 of the brake disc 80, the first clamp 106 can be configured to substantially surround the brake disc 80 from the first side 91 to the second side 93 of the disc. In the example, the first clamp 106 defines a gap G configured to receive a portion of the brake disc 80 when the first arm 126 slides over the first surface 118 in a first tangential direction T1. The gap G can be configured to engage the first side 91 and the second side 93 of the disc when the first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80. In the example, the first clamp 106 is configured such that when the first clamp 106 receives a portion of the brake disc 80 within the gap G, the displacement D1 causes the first surface 118 and / or the rear surface 117 to help fix the first clamp 106 and prevent it from moving in the outward radial direction R2, for example, by helping the first clamp 106 resist movement away from the brake disc 80 in the outward radial direction R2.

[0067] The first clamp 106 may be configured such that when the first clamp 106 receives a portion of the brake disc 80 within the gap G, the first clamp 106 is positioned to contact the flange 121 and / or the rear flange 123 when a force (e.g., gravity or other force) is applied to the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1, such that the flange 121 and / or the flange 123 help the first clamp 106 resist movement in the inward radial direction R1. The first clamp 106 may be configured such that when the first clamp 106 receives a portion of the brake disc 80 within the gap G, the first clamp 106 contacts the step 125 and / or the rear step 127.

[0068] like Figure 7 As shown, the first clamp 106 may include a second arm 128 extending from the body section 120. The first clamp 106 defines a gap G between the first arm 126 and the second arm 128. For example, the first arm 126 may include a first arm inner wall 130, and the second arm 128 may include a second arm inner wall 132 generally facing the first arm inner wall 130, and the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132 may define the gap G.

[0069] In some examples, the second arm 128 is configured to engage a back surface 117 of the brake disc 80 when the back surface 124 engages the torque face 102 and / or the first arm 126 engages the first surface 118. The first clamp 106 can be configured such that when the first clamp 106 experiences movement relative to the brake disc 80 in an axial direction of the brake disc 80, the first clamp 106 (e.g., the first arm 126) contacts the disc first side 91 (e.g., the first surface 118) and / or the first clamp 106 (e.g., the second arm 128) contacts the disc second side 93 (e.g., the back surface 117) to substantially stop continued movement in the axial direction. In examples, the first arm 126 and / or the second arm 128 are configured to accommodate a displacement D1 such that when the first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80, the displacement D1 causes the brake disc 80 to help secure the first clamp 106 against movement in an outward radial direction R2.

[0070] The back surface 124, the first arm inner wall 130, and / or the second arm inner wall 132 can have any suitable orientation relative to the axis A of the brake disc 80, the inward radial direction R1, the outward radial direction R2, the first tangential direction T1, and / or the second tangential direction T2. In some examples, the back surface 124 is inclined relative to the inward radial direction R1 such that a vector parallel to the back surface 124 defines a slope AR1 / AT1, where AR1 is an absolute value of a displacement in the inward radial direction R1 and AT1 is an absolute value of a displacement in a direction parallel to the first tangential direction T1. In some examples, the first arm inner wall 130 and / or the second arm inner wall 132 are inclined relative to the inward radial direction R1 such that a vector parallel to the back surface 124 defines a slope AR1 / AA, where AR1 is an absolute value of a displacement in the inward radial direction R1 and AA is an absolute value of a displacement in a direction parallel to the axis A of the brake disc 80.

[0071] The retainer 104 (e.g., the first end section 110) is configured to be slidable over the first clamp 106 when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 to help secure the first clamp 106 to the brake disc 80. In examples, the retainer 104 is configured to push over the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1. The retainer 104 can be configured to receive some portion of the first clamp 106 within the channel 119 when the retainer 104 is slid over the first clamp 106. In examples, the retainer 104 is configured to provide an inward clamping force against the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over and / or pushed radially over the clamp 106. The retainer 104 can be configured to provide the inward clamping force when the first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80 to cause the first arm inner wall 130 to engage the first surface 118 and / or the second arm inner wall 132 to engage the back surface 117.

[0072] The retainer 104 can include a first leg 134 and a second leg 136 extending from a bridge section 138. In Figure 7 In the illustrated example, the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 define a channel 119. The bridge section 138 can be configured to elastically bias the first leg 134 toward the second leg 136 and / or to elastically bias the second leg 136 toward the first leg 134 such that the retainer 104 provides an inward clamping force when the retainer 104 receives the first clamp 106 in the channel 119. The elastic bias provided by the bridge section 138 can cause a tendency for the first leg 134 and / or the second leg 136 to return or attempt to return to an initial spacing when the first leg 134 and / or the second leg 136 are displaced from a resting, substantially zero-stress position. This elastic bias can enable the retainer 104 to push against the clamp 106 such that the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 provide a contact pressure against the clamp 106 to help secure the drive bushing assembly 100 relative to the brake disc 80 in a radial, tangential, and / or axial direction of the brake disc 80.

[0073] When the retainer 104 is positioned over the clamp 106, the retainer 104 can engage the clamp 106 in any suitable manner. In some examples, portions of the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 include are configured to be inserted into slots defined by the first arm 126 and the second arm 128 of the clamp 106. For example, the first arm 126 can define a first slot 140 configured to receive a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the first leg 134) when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106. The second arm 128 can define a second slot 142 configured to receive a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the second leg 136) when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106. The second slot 142 can be similarly configured as the first slot 140. The retainer 104 and the first clamp 106 can be configured to establish a snap fit, interference fit, pressure fit, or other fit when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106 and can be welded, brazed, and / or attached using fasteners that penetrate the retainer 104 and / or the clamp 106.

[0074] As discussed, and as Figure 5As depicted, the retainer 104 can be configured to engage the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 when the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108 are positioned on the brake disc 80. The retainer 104 can be configured to engage the second clamp 108 in a manner similar to that described for the first clamp 106. For example, the retainer 104 can include a second end segment 112 configured to engage the second clamp 108 in a manner similar to that described for the first end segment 110 and the first clamp 106. The intermediate segment 114 can extend substantially from the first end segment 110 to the second end segment 112. In an example, the intermediate segment 114 is configured to substantially conform to a portion of the brake disc 80 (e.g., the disc outer periphery 84) when the retainer 104 engages the first clamp 106 and the second clamp 108.

[0075] The drive bushing assembly 100 can be configured to limit or eliminate slots, holes, channels, grooves, and other structural features in the brake disc 80 that can contribute to wear and / or fatigue of the brake disc during repeated braking operations. For example, some drive bushings can require slots, holes, channels, grooves, and other structural features to substantially mate with a flange, peg, hole, or other structure defined by the drive bushing in order to limit relative movement in a radial, tangential, or axial direction of the brake disc. These structural features can wear and / or fatigue during repeated operation of the braking system, thereby reducing the positional security of the drive bushing on the brake disc, reducing the surface integrity of the brake disc, creating stress concentrations in the brake disc, and causing other undesirable effects. The drive bushing assembly 100 can be configured to be positioned on the brake disc 80 in a manner that reduces and / or eliminates the need for such slots, holes, channels, grooves, and other structural features on the brake disc 80 in order to limit such undesirable effects on the integrity of the brake disc 80.

[0076] Figures 8A-8C A front plan view, a side view, and a top plan view of an example first clamp 106 are shown. The first clamp 106 and its interaction with the first end segment 110 and the intermediate segment 114 of the retainer 104, the first drive slot 86, and the brake disc 80 are discussed with reference to Figures 8A-8C The second clamp 108 can be configured in a similar manner to the first clamp 106 and interact with the second end segment 112 and the intermediate segment 114 of the retainer 104, the second drive slot 88, and the brake disc 80 in a similar manner. Accordingly, the description of the first clamp 106 also applies to the second clamp 108.

[0077] In Figure 8A , Figure 8B and Figure 8CIn each of the figures, the inward radial direction Rl, the outward radial direction R2, the first tangential direction Tl, the second tangential direction T2, and the axial direction Al remain the same orientation relative to the first clamp 106. In Figure 8A the first tangential direction Tl points in toward the page, and the second tangential direction T2 points out from the page. In Figure 8B the axial direction Al points out from the page. In Figure 8C the inward radial direction Rl points in toward the page, and the outward radial direction R2 points out from the page. The first clamp 106 includes a body segment 120 defining a drive face 122, a first arm 126 and a second arm 128 extending from the body segment 120, and a back face 124 opposite the drive face 122.

[0078] The first arm 126 includes a first arm inner wall 130 and a first arm outer wall 144, with the first arm inner wall 130 and the first arm outer wall 144 on substantially opposite sides of the first arm 126. The second arm 128 includes a second arm inner wall 132 and a second arm outer wall 146, with the second arm inner wall 132 and the second arm outer wall 146 on substantially opposite sides of the second arm 128. The first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132 can generally face one another, while the first arm outer wall 144 and the second arm outer wall 146 can generally face away from one another. The first clamp 106 defines a gap G between the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132. The gap G is configured to receive a portion of the brake disc 80, such as a portion (e.g., portion 80A( Figures 3-6 ) that is adjacent to the drive slot 86( Figure 5 and Figure 6 ).

[0079] The gap G can be defined by a displacement D2 between the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132. The displacement D2 can be substantially parallel to the axial direction Al and can vary relative to the inward radial direction Rl. For example, the displacement D2 can decrease in the inward radial direction Rl and increase in the outward radial direction R2, such that the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132 generally tilt away from one another. In some examples, the displacement D2 can increase and / or remain substantially constant in the inward radial direction Rl and / or the outward radial direction R2.

[0080] In some examples, the first clamp 106 is configured such that the displacement D2 between the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132 is substantially the same as a displacement Dl( Figure 6) identical manner variations, which can help facilitate achieving a desired level of physical engagement between the clamp 106 and the brake disc 80. For example, the displacement D1 can be reduced in the inward radial direction R1 and the displacement D2 can be reduced in the inward radial direction R1. The first clamp 106 can be configured such that the displacement D2 varying between the first arm inner wall 130 and the second arm inner wall 132 wedges with the varying displacement D1 of the brake disc 80. The displacement D2 can be reduced in the inward radial direction R1 such that the reduced displacement D2 between the first arm 126 and the second arm 128 substantially secures the first clamp 106 against moving in the outward radial direction R2 when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118. Further, the flange 121 and / or the flange 123( Figure 6 ) can substantially secure the first clamp 106 against moving in a radial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., in the inward radial direction R1) when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118.

[0081] The first clamp 106 can be configured such that when the first clamp 106 receives a portion of the brake disc 80 (e.g., the portion 80A( Figure 5 and Figure 6 )) the brake disc 80 can help secure the first clamp 106 against moving in an axial direction (e.g., the axial direction Al and / or a direction opposite the axial direction Al). In an example, the first clamp 106 is configured such that when the first clamp 106 receives the portion of the brake disc 80, the first arm inner wall 130 substantially faces the first surface 118 and / or the second arm inner wall 132 substantially faces the rear surface 117 such that the first surface 118 and / or the rear surface 117 limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the axial direction. The first arm inner wall 130 can contact the first surface 118 and / or the second arm inner wall 132 can contact the rear surface 117 when the clamp 106 is positioned over the brake disc 80. For example, the first clamp 106 can be configured such that when the back face 124 engages the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80, the first arm inner wall 130 is positioned over the first surface 118 and the second arm inner wall 132 is positioned over the rear surface 117.

[0082] The first clamp 106 can be positioned over the brake disc 80 using any suitable technique. For example, the first clamp 106 can be configured such that, in order to position the clamp 106 over the first surface 118, the first arm inner wall 130 is slid over the first surface 118 and the second arm inner wall 132 is slid over the back surface 117, e.g., in the tangential direction T1. The first clamp 106 can be configured such that, when the first arm 126 is slid over the first surface 118 and the second arm 128 is slid over the back surface 117, the brake disc 80 substantially fixes the first clamp 106 against movement in the radial direction of the brake disc 80, e.g., in the outward radial direction R2. The first clamp 106 can be configured such that, when the back face 124 engages the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80, the displacement D1 of the brake disc 80 is reduced in the inward radial direction R1.

[0083] Accordingly, when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the brake disc 80, the first clamp 106 can be configured to limit relative movement between the first clamp 106 and the brake disc 80 in the radial direction of the brake disc 80, e.g., the inward radial direction R1 and / or the outward radial direction R2. When the first clamp 106 is positioned over the brake disc 80, the first clamp 106 can be configured to limit relative movement between the first clamp 106 and the brake disc 80 in the axial direction of the brake disc 80, e.g., the axial direction A1 or a direction opposite the axial direction A1. When the first clamp 106 is positioned over the brake disc 80, the first clamp 106 can be configured to limit relative movement between the first clamp 106 and the brake disc 80 in the tangential direction of the brake disc 80, e.g., the first tangential direction T1. In the absence of additional attachment mechanisms such as rivets, there can be support provided by the clamp 106 against axial, radial, and tangential movement when the clamp 106 is positioned over the brake disc 80. Accordingly, when the clamp 106 is installed over the brake disc 80, the clamp can provide support limiting axial, radial, and tangential movement without the need for additional attachment devices (e.g., rivets) that penetrate the first clamp 106 and / or the brake disc 80.

[0084] The first clamp 106 can have any suitable configuration. In some examples, the body segment 120 and the arms 126, 128 are formed physically separate from one another and subsequently attached to define the clamp 106. In other examples, the body segment 120 and the arms 126, 128 have a unitary body configuration, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece. The first clamp 106 can be formed by machining from bar stock, investment casting, 3D printing, or some other suitable method. Further, in some examples, the first clamp 106 can be formed from any suitable material, such as, but not limited to, an austenitic nickel-chromium-based superalloy (e.g., Inconel® available from Special Metals Corporation of New Hartford, New York) or other alloy. In some examples, the body segment 120 and the arms 126, 128 are formed from the same material, while in other examples, at least two of the body segment 120, the first arm 126, and the second arm 128 are formed from materials different from one another.

[0085] The first clamp 106 can be configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2. For example, the first arm 126 can be configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2 when the first slot 140 receives a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the first leg 134). The first slot 140 can be configured to form a snap fit with the retainer 104 (e.g., the first leg 134). In examples, the first arm 126 defines a first retaining surface 141 that is configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2 when the first slot 140 receives the portion of the retainer 104. The second arm 128 can define a second retaining surface 143 that is configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2 when the second slot 142 receives a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the second leg 136). The first retaining surface 141 and / or the second retaining surface 143 can be configured to contact the retainer 104 when the retainer 104 is subjected to a force in the outward radial direction R2 such that the first retaining surface 141 and / or the second retaining surface 143 limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2.

[0086] The first clamp 106 can be configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in a tangential direction (e.g., the first tangential direction T1) of the brake disc 80. For example, the first arm 126 can be configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction T1 when the first slot 140 receives a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the first leg 134). For example, the first arm 126 can define a first support surface 145 configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in a tangential direction (e.g., the first tangential direction T1) when the first slot 140 receives the portion of the retainer 104. The second arm 128 can define a second support surface 147 configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in a tangential direction (e.g., the first tangential direction T1) when the second slot 142 receives a portion of the retainer 104 (e.g., the second leg 136). The first support surface 145 and / or the second support surface 147 can be configured to contact the retainer 104 when the retainer 104 is subjected to a force in the first tangential direction T1 such that the first support surface 145 and / or the second support surface 147 limit movement of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction T1.

[0087] The second clamp 108 of the drive bushing assembly 100 Figure 4 and Figure 5 may include a body segment, a drive face, a back face, a first arm, a second arm, a gap, a first arm inner wall, a second arm inner wall, a first slot, a first retention surface, a first support surface, a second slot, a second retention surface, a second support surface, a first arm outer wall, and a second arm outer wall, which can be individually and relative to one another configured in the same manner as the body segment 120, the drive face 122, the back face 124, the first arm 126, the second arm 128, the gap G, the first arm inner wall 130, the second arm inner wall 132, the first slot 140, the first retention surface 141, the first support surface 145, the second slot 142, the second retention surface 143, the second support surface 147, the first arm outer wall 144, and the second arm outer wall 146 of the first clamp 106. As discussed, the first clamp 106 can be configured to be positioned over the brake disc 80 and the first drive slot (e.g., the drive slot 86) by translating in the first tangential direction T1, and the second clamp 108 can be configured to be positioned over the brake disc 80 and the second drive slot (e.g., the drive slot 88) by translating in the second tangential direction T2.

[0088] Figures 9A-9C A plan view of an example retainer 104 is shown. The discussion of the first end segment 110 and its interaction with the first clamp 106, the middle segment 114, and the brake disc 80 is discussed with reference to Figures 9A-9CThe second end section 112 can be configured in a similar manner to the first end section 110 and interact with the second clamp 108, the intermediate section 114, and the brake disc 80 in a similar manner. Accordingly, the description of the first end section 110 also applies to the second end section 112.

[0089] Figure 9A a front view is shown, Figure 9B a side view is shown, and Figure 9C a top view is shown. In each of the figures, Figure 9A , Figure 9B and Figure 9C the inward radial direction Rl, the outward radial direction R2, the first tangential direction Tl, the second tangential direction T2, and the axial direction Al maintain the same orientation with respect to the first clamp 106. In Figure 9A , the first tangential direction Tl points inward into the page, and the second tangential direction T2 points outward from the page. In Figure 9B , the axial direction Al points outward from the page. In Figure 9C , the inward radial direction Rl points inward into the page, and the outward radial direction R2 points outward from the page. The intermediate section 114 is shown in Figures 9A-9C as a partial section, however, the intermediate section 114 is configured to extend to a second end section (not shown). For example, as shown in Figure 3 and Figure 4 , the intermediate section 114 can extend from the first end section 110 to the second end section 112.

[0090] To provide further support to the drive bushing assembly 100, the first end segment 110 can be slidable over the first clamp 106 when the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 (or the other surface in other examples). The first end segment 110 can be slidable over the first clamp 106 in a radial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., an inward radial direction Rl). Receiving the first clamp 106 within the channel 119 defined by the first end segment 110 can limit movement of the retainer 104 in an axial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., an axial direction Al). When positioned over the first clamp 106, the first end segment 110 can be configured such that the retainer 104 limits movement of the first clamp 106 in a second tangential direction T2 of the brake disc 80, while the first clamp 106 limits movement of the retainer 104 in a first tangential direction Tl of the brake disc 80. Further, the first end segment 110 and the first clamp 106 can be configured such that the first clamp 106 limits movement of the retainer 104 in an outward radial direction R2 of the brake disc 80 (e.g., when the brake disc 80 limits movement of the first clamp 106 in the outward radial direction R2). Thus, when the retainer 104 (e.g., the first end segment 110) is positioned over the first clamp 106, the retainer 104 and the first clamp 106 can function to limit movement of the drive bushing assembly 100, preventing it from moving in the axial, radial, and tangential directions of the brake disc 80. The first clamp 106 and the retainer 104 can work together to secure the drive bushing assembly 100 to the brake disc without the need for fasteners (e.g., rivets) or other elements to penetrate the drive bushing assembly 100 and the brake disc 80.

[0091] When the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106, the retainer 104 can engage the first clamp 106 in any suitable manner. For example, the first end segment 110 can be configured to receive a portion of the clamp 106 within the channel 119 when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the clamp 106. In examples, the first end segment 110 can be configured to contact at least some portion of the first arm 126 and at least some portion of the second arm 128 of the clamp 106 when the channel 119 receives the portion of the clamp 106. In examples, the first clamp 106 defines a first open end 148 and a second open end 150, where the first open end 148 and the second open end 150 are in fluid communication through the channel 119. The channel 119 can be at least partially defined by the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 extending from the bridge segment 138.

[0092] In examples, the first end segment 110 and the first clamp 106 are configured to substantially mate when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106. For example, the first end segment 110 and the first clamp 106 can be configured to establish a snap fit, an interference fit, a press fit, or other fit when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106. In some examples, the first end segment 110 and the first clamp can be welded, brazed, and / or attached using fasteners that penetrate the retainer 104 and / or the clamp 106. However, such additional attachment mechanisms can not be necessary or used in all examples.

[0093] When the first end segment 110 is positioned over and / or pushed radially over the first clamp 106, the first end segment 110 can be resiliently biased to provide an inward clamping action on the first clamp 106. The bridge segment 138 can be configured to resiliently bias the first leg 134 and / or the second leg 136 so that the first end segment 110 provides the inward clamping action. For example, the first end segment 110 can be configured so that when the first leg 134, the second leg 136, and the bridge segment 138 are in a resting, substantially zero-stress position, the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 are held displaced by a distance D3. The bridge segment 138 can be configured to provide a resilient bias to the first leg 134 that creates a tendency for the first leg 134 to return or attempt to return to a position establishing the distance D3 when the first leg 134 is temporarily displaced in the direction shown by a force Fl acting on the first leg 134. Additionally or conversely, in some examples, the bridge segment 138 is configured to provide a resilient bias to the second leg 136 that creates a tendency for the second leg 136 to return or attempt to return to a position establishing the distance D3 when the second leg 136 is temporarily displaced in the direction shown by a force F2 acting on the second leg 136. The resilient bias can provide a gripping and / or inward clamping force on the clamp 106 when the first end segment 110 is slid over the first clamp 106 and contacts some portion of the first arm 126 and some portion of the second arm 128. Figure 9A Figure 9A

[0094] As described above, in some examples, the first end segment 110 and the first clamp 106 can include mating features that help to engage the retainer 104 and the first clamp 106 and fix the relative positions of the retainer 104 and the first clamp 106. In some examples, the first end segment 110 can include a first protrusion 152 and a second protrusion 154 that are configured to engage with corresponding slots 140, 142 of the first clamp 106. The first protrusion 152 and the second protrusion 154 can be configured to establish a snap fit, an interference fit, a press fit, or other fit with the slots 140, 142 of the first clamp 106. In some examples, the first protrusion 152 and the second protrusion 154 can be welded, brazed, and / or attached using fasteners that penetrate the retainer 104 and / or the clamp 106. However, such additional attachment mechanisms can not be necessary or used in all examples. Figure 8A ​​) engage. The first protrusion 152 can be defined by or coupled to the first leg 134, and the second protrusion 154 can be defined by or coupled to the second leg 136. The first leg 134 can be configured to bias the first protrusion 152 and the second leg 136 can be configured to bias the second protrusion 154 to maintain a displacement D3 between the first protrusion 152 and the second protrusion 154. The first protrusion 152 can be configured to be inserted into the first slot 140 when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106, and the second protrusion 154 can be configured to be inserted into the second slot 142 when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106.

[0095] The first protrusion 152 and / or the second protrusion 154 can be configured to be inserted into the respective slot 140, 142 in any suitable type of fit, such as but not limited to a snap fit, an interference fit, a press fit, or other fit, and can be welded, brazed, and / or attached using fasteners that penetrate the retainer 104 and / or the first clamp 106. When the drive bushing assembly 100 is installed on the brake disc 80, the interlocking snap fit can help block the first clamp 106 and the retainer 104 from moving in the axial, radial, and tangential directions of the brake disc 80.

[0096] The displacement D3 is a displacement between the first protrusion 152 and the second protrusion 154 when the first end segment 110 is in a rest state. In some examples, the displacement D3 is less than a displacement between the first protrusion 152 and the second protrusion 154 when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106, such that the elastic bias of the first leg 134 and / or the second leg 136 creates an inward clamping force on the first clamp 106 when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106. The inward clamping force can cause the first protrusion 152 to press against some portion of the first slot 140 in a direction opposite the force Fl and / or cause the second protrusion 154 to press against some portion of the second slot 142 in a direction opposite the force F2.

[0097] The first end segment 110 can be configured to engage the first clamp 106 when the first end segment 110 receives the first clamp 106 (e.g., in the channel 119) such that the first clamp 106 restricts movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2. The first end segment 110 can be configured to cause the first clamp 106 to restrict movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2 when the first leg 134 is inserted into the first slot 140 and / or the second leg 136 is inserted into the second slot 142. In examples, the first end segment 110 defines a first bearing surface 156 having a first bearing surface 156 that is parallel to the first retaining surface 141 of the first slot 140 and / or a second bearing surface 158 that is parallel to the second retaining surface 143 of the second slot 142. Figure 8A) opposite orientation such that when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106 and the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 and / or the back surface 117 of the brake disc 80, the first end segment 110 resists forces that seek to translate the retainer 104 in a radial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., in the outward radial direction R2). The first bearing surface 156 can define a non-zero displacement in a direction substantially parallel to the axial direction Al, and can define a non-zero displacement in a direction substantially parallel to the first tangential direction Tl. The non-zero displacement of the first bearing surface 156 can cause the first end segment 110 to contact the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is subjected to a force in the outward radial direction R2.

[0098] In an example, the first end segment 110 defines a second bearing surface 158 having an opposite orientation to the second retaining surface 143 of the second slot 142 Figure 8A ) such that when the first end segment 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106 and the first clamp 106 is positioned over the first surface 118 and / or the back surface 117 of the brake disc 80, the first end segment 110 resists forces that seek to translate the retainer 104 in a radial direction of the brake disc 80 (e.g., in the outward radial direction R2). The second bearing surface 158 can define a non-zero displacement in a direction substantially parallel to the axial direction Al, and can define a non-zero displacement in a direction substantially parallel to the first tangential direction Tl. The non-zero displacement of the second bearing surface 158 can cause the first end segment 110 to contact the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is subjected to a force in the outward radial direction R2.

[0099] Accordingly, the retainer 104 can be configured such that when the retainer 104 is positioned on the first clamp 106, the first clamp 106 limits movement of the retainer 104 in a radial direction (e.g., the outward radial direction R2). The retainer 104 can be configured such that a force on the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2 causes the retainer 104 to exert a force on the first clamp 106 in the outward radial direction R2 (e.g., via engagement of the first bearing surface 156 and the first retaining surface 141 Figure 8A ) and / or engagement of the second bearing surface 158 and the second retaining surface 143 Figure 8A ). The disc 80 can limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the outward radial direction R2 (e.g., by engagement of the first arm inner wall 130 and the first surface 118 Figure 6 ) and / or engagement of the second arm inner wall 132 and the back surface 117 Figure 6 ), such that the first clamp 106 exerts a counter force on the retainer 104 to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the outward radial direction R2.

[0100] The retainer 104 can be configured to engage the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 receives the first clamp 106 (e.g., in the channel 119) such that the retainer 104 limits movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2. For example, the first end section 110 can be configured to limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2 when the first leg 134 is inserted into the first slot 140 of the first clamp 106 and / or the second leg 136 is inserted into the second slot 142 of the first clamp 106.

[0101] In examples, the first leg 134 (e.g., the first protrusion 152) defines a first back surface 160 configured to engage a first support surface 145 of the first clamp 106. Figures 8A-8C The first back surface 160 can extend in a direction substantially parallel (e.g., parallel or nearly parallel within manufacturing tolerances) to the axial direction Al such that the first back surface 160 engages the first support surface 145 when the first clamp 106 moves or attempts to move in the second tangential direction T2. In a similar manner, the second protrusion 154 can define a second back surface 162 configured to engage a second support surface 147 of the first clamp 106. Figures 8A-8C The second back surface 162 can extend in a direction substantially parallel to the axial direction Al such that the second back surface 162 engages the second support surface 147 when the first clamp 106 moves or attempts to move in the second tangential direction T2.

[0102] Further, the first clamp 106 can limit movement of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction Tl when the first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80 such that the brake disc 80 limits further movement of the first clamp 106 in the first tangential direction Tl. For example, the first end section 110 can be configured such that the first back surface 160 of the first end section 110 engages the first support surface 145 of the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 moves or attempts to move in the first tangential direction Tl to cause the first clamp 106 to exert a reaction force on the first end section 110, thereby limiting movement of the retainer 104. The first end section 110 can be configured such that the second back surface 160 engages the second support surface 147 to cause the first clamp 106 to exert a reaction force.

[0103] Accordingly, the retainer 104 can be configured to limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2. The first clamp 106 can be configured to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction Tl. In an example, the retainer 104 and the first clamp 106 are configured such that the retainer 104 limits movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2 while the first clamp 106 limits movement of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction Tl.

[0104] As discussed, and as shown in Figure 4 and Figure 5 , the intermediate section 114 extends from the first end section 110 to the second end section 112. The intermediate section 114 can be configured to transmit forces from the first end section 110 to the second end section 112, and from the second end section 112 to the first end section 110. Accordingly, the intermediate section 114 can be configured such that the first clamp 106 functions to limit movement of the second clamp 108 in the first tangential direction Tl and the second clamp 108 functions to limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2. For example, and referring primarily to Figure 5 , when the second clamp 108 is subjected to a force in the first tangential direction Tl (e.g., opposite the second tangential direction T2), the support surface 164 Figure 4 , Figure 5 of the second clamp 108 can exert a force on the back surface 166 Figure 4 , Figure 5 of the retainer 104 in the first tangential direction Tl. The second end section 112 can define the back surface 166. The intermediate section 114 can be configured such that the force exerted on the back surface 166 is transmitted through the intermediate section to the first end section 110, thereby causing the first back surface 160 to exert a force on the first support surface 145 of the first clamp 106 in the first tangential direction Tl. The force on the first support surface 145 can correspondingly cause the first clamp 106 to exert a force on the brake disc 80 (e.g., at the step 125 Figure 6) apply a force, thereby causing the brake disc 80 to exert a reaction force on the first clamp 106 to limit movement of the first clamp 106. The first support surface 145 can then exert a reaction force on the first back surface 160 of the first end section 110, causing the intermediate section 114 to transmit the reaction force to the second end section 112 and causing the back surface 166 to exert a reaction force on the support surface 164 to limit movement of the second clamp 108. When the first clamp 106 is subjected to a force in the second tangential direction T2, the intermediate section 114 can function in a similar manner, causing the brake disc 80 to exert a reaction force on the second clamp 108 to limit movement of the first clamp 106. Thus, the intermediate section 114 can be configured such that the first clamp 106 functions to limit movement of the second clamp 108 in the first tangential direction T1 and the second clamp 108 functions to limit movement of the first clamp 106 in the second tangential direction T2.

[0105] The second end section 112 of the retainer 104 Figure 4 and Figure 5 may include a channel, a first leg, a second leg, a bridge section, a first open end, a second open end, a first support surface, a second support surface, a first back surface, and a second back surface (e.g., back surface 166), which can be individually and relative to one another configured in the same manner as the channel 119, the first leg 134, the second leg 136, the bridge section 138, the first open end 148, the second open end 150, the first support surface 156, the second support surface 158, the first back surface 160, and the second back surface 162 of the first end section 110. As discussed, the first end section 110 can be configured to be positioned above the first clamp 106 and the second end section 112 can be configured to be positioned above the second clamp 108.

[0106] The drive bushing assembly 100 described herein, as well as the wheel 10 and brake system 40 and components thereof, can be made of any suitable material. For example, the material can be any material of suitable strength intended for the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof. In some examples, the material includes a metal or a metal alloy. For example, the material can include a nickel alloy or a steel alloy. As one example, the material can include stainless steel.

[0107] The drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof can be formed using any suitable technique. The drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof can be produced from bar stock forging, casting, manufacturing, being additively manufactured (e.g., three-dimensional (3D) printing), extruded, stretched, or using other suitable methods. In some examples, the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof can be machined to define the configurations described herein. In other examples, the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof can be formed without substantial machining.

[0108] The drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40, and components thereof can be formed to have any shape. In some examples, two or more components of the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40 are formed physically separate from one another and subsequently joined and / or attached to define the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, the brake system 40. In other examples, two or more components of the drive bushing assembly 100, the wheel 10, and the brake system 40 have a unitary body construction, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece. In some examples, the first end segment 110, the second end segment 112, and / or the intermediate segment 114 are formed physically separate from one another and subsequently joined and / or attached to define the drive bushing assembly 100. In other examples, the first end segment 110, the second end segment 112, and / or the intermediate segment 114 have a unitary body construction, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece.

[0109] The first clamp 106 can be formed using any suitable technique. The second clamp 108 can be formed in a similar manner as the first clamp 106. In examples, the body segment 120, the first arm 126, and / or the second arm 128 are configured to be joined and / or attached to form the first clamp 106. In examples, the body segment 120, the first arm 126, and / or the second arm 128 have a unitary body construction, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece. Surfaces and / or portions of the first clamp 106, such as the drive face 122, the back face 124, the first arm inner wall 130, the first arm outer wall 144, the second arm inner wall 132, the second arm outer wall 146, the first retention surface 141, the second retention surface 143, and other surfaces and / or portions can be formed by machining, forging, casting, machining, additive manufacturing, extruding, stretching, or other suitable methods.

[0110] The first end section 110 can be formed using any suitable technique. The second end section 112 can be formed in a similar manner as the first end section 110. In an example, the bridge section 138, the first leg 134, and / or the second leg 136 are configured to be joined and / or attached to form the first end section 110. In an example, the bridge section 138, the first leg 134, and / or the second leg 136 have a unitary body construction, e.g., are formed as a unitary piece. Surfaces and / or portions of the first end section 110, such as the first leg 134, the second leg 136, the first protrusion 152, the second protrusion 154, the channel 119, the first bearing surface 156, the second bearing surface 158, the first back surface 160, the second back surface 162, and other surfaces and / or portions can be formed by machining, forging, casting, machining, additive manufacturing, extruding, stretching, or other suitable methods.

[0111] In some examples, the wheel 10 can be finished from a near-net shape forged aluminum and include an axial assembly and / or wheel rim for assembling the brake system 40 to the wheel 10. In other examples, the wheel 10 can be manufactured in a different manner. In yet other examples, the wheel 10 can be obtained rather than manufactured. The wheel 10 can be made from any suitable material. In some examples, the wheel 10 includes a metal or metal alloy. For example, the wheel 10 can include aluminum, a nickel alloy, a steel alloy (e.g., stainless steel), titanium, a carbon composite, or magnesium.

[0112] The brake discs described herein, including the brake disc 80, the rotor discs 60, 61, 62, 63, and the stator discs 64, 65, 66, can be manufactured from any suitable material. In some examples, the brake discs described herein can be manufactured from a metal or metal alloy, such as a steel alloy. In some examples, the brake discs can be manufactured from a carbon-carbon composite. In some examples, the brake discs can be manufactured using a carbon-carbon composite having high thermal stability, high wear resistance, and / or stable friction properties. The brake discs can include a carbon material having a plurality of carbon fibers and a densified material. The carbon fibers can be arranged in a weave or non-woven as a single layer or multiple layers of structure. Surfaces and / or portions of the brake disc 80, such as the central aperture 82, the disc outer periphery 84, the drive slots 86, 88, the friction surface 90, the disc first side 91, the disc second side 93, the first surface 118, the back surface 117, and other surfaces and / or portions can be formed using any suitable manner, such as machining.

[0113] Figure 10 A flowchart illustrating an example technique for positioning a drive bushing on a drive slot of a brake disc is shown. Although the technique is described with reference to the drive bushing assembly 100 and the brake disc 80 of Figures 3-9C , the technique can be used with another drive bushing and brake disc in other examples.

[0114] The technique includes positioning the first clamp 106 on the brake disc 80 by sliding the first clamp 106 in a first tangential direction Tl of the brake disc 80 (170). The first clamp 106 can be positioned to cover portions of the first surface 118 and the back surface 117 of the brake disc 80, which can be located on opposite sides of the brake disc 80 and adjacent to the first drive slot 86.

[0115] The first clamp 106 can include a body section 120, with the first arm 126 and the second arm 128 extending from the body section 120. In some examples, the first clamp 106 is slid tangentially onto the brake disc 80 such that the first arm 126 covers some portion of the first surface 118 and the second arm 128 covers some portion of the back surface 117. In some examples, a first arm inner wall 130 of the first arm 126 and a second arm inner wall 132 of the second arm 128 can be angled away from each other and can be oriented relative to the brake disc 80 such that the first clamp 106 establishes a wedge fit with the brake disc 80 when the first clamp 106 is slid tangentially onto the brake disc 80. The body section 120 can include a back face 124, and the clamp 106 can be slid tangentially onto the brake disc 80 such that the back face 124 engages and / or contacts the torque face 102 of the brake disc 80.

[0116] The technique includes positioning the second clamp 108 on the brake disc 80 by sliding the second clamp 108 in a second tangential direction T2 of the brake disc 80 (172). The second tangential direction T2 can be substantially opposite the first tangential direction Tl relative to the brake disc 80. The first clamp 106 is positioned on the brake disc 80 by sliding in the first tangential direction Tl and relative to a first drive slot, such as the drive slot 86, and the second clamp 108 can be positioned on the brake disc 80 in the same manner by sliding in the second tangential direction T2 and relative to a second drive slot 88.

[0117] The second clamp 108 can include a first arm and a second arm extending from a body section, and be similar to the first arm 126, the second arm 128, and the body section 120 of the first clamp 106. In some examples, the second clamp 108 is tangentially slid onto the brake disc 80 such that the first arm of the second clamp 108 covers a portion of the surface on the disc first side 91 and the second arm of the second clamp 108 covers a portion of the surface on the disc second side 93. In some examples, the first arm inner wall of the second clamp 108 and the second arm inner wall of the second clamp 108 can be angled away from each other and can be oriented relative to the brake disc 80 such that the second clamp 108 establishes a wedge fit with the brake disc 80 when the second clamp 108 is tangentially slid onto the brake disc 80. The body section of the second clamp 108 can include a back face, and the second clamp 108 can be tangentially slid onto the brake disc 80 such that the back face of the second clamp 108 engages and / or contacts a torque face of the brake disc 80 (e.g., a torque face of the drive slot 88).

[0118] The technique also includes positioning the retainer 104 on the brake disc 80 (174). For example, the retainer 104 can be positioned on the brake disc 80 in the inward radial direction R1 of the brake disc 80. For example, after the first clamp 106 and / or the second clamp 108 are placed on the brake disc 80, the retainer 104 can be pushed over the first clamp 106 and / or the second clamp 108 in the inward radial direction R1 of the brake disc 80. In examples, the first end section 110 of the retainer 104 is pushed over the first clamp 106 and the second end section 112 of the retainer 104 is pushed over the second clamp 108. When the retainer 104 is positioned on the brake disc 80, the middle section 114 between the first end section 110 and the second end section 112 can substantially conform to the disc outer periphery 84 of the brake disc 80.

[0119] In examples, the retainer 104 defines a channel 119 that is configured to receive the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1. The retainer 104 (e.g., the first end section 110) can include a first leg 134 and a second leg 136 that contact the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106 in the inward radial direction R1. The first leg 134 and the second leg 136 can be resiliently biased toward each other by a bridge section 138 such that the first leg 134 and the second leg 136 provide an inward clamping force on the clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over the clamp 106 in the radial direction.

[0120] In some examples, the retainer 104 (e.g., the first end segment 110) and the first clamp 106 include structures configured to interlock or otherwise mate together to help secure the position of the retainer 104 relative to the first clamp 106. For example, the first leg 134 of the retainer 104 can define a first protrusion 152 configured to be inserted into the first slot 140 defined by the first arm 126 of the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106 in the radial direction. The second leg 136 of the retainer 104 can define a second protrusion 154 configured to be inserted into the second slot 142 defined by the second arm 128 of the first clamp 106 when the retainer 104 is positioned over the first clamp 106 in the radial direction. The first protrusion 152 can be inserted into the first slot 140 such that a first bearing surface 156 of the first protrusion 152 and a first retaining surface 141 of the first slot 140 oppose one another to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the radial direction of the brake disc 80. The second protrusion 154 can be inserted into the second slot 142 such that a second bearing surface 158 of the second protrusion 154 and a second retaining surface 143 of the second slot 142 oppose one another to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the radial direction of the brake disc 80.

[0121] In examples, the first protrusion 152 is inserted into the first slot 140 such that a first back surface 160 of the first protrusion 152 and a first support surface 145 of the first slot 140 oppose one another to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the tangential direction of the brake disc 80. The second protrusion 154 can be inserted into the second slot 142 such that a second back surface 162 of the second protrusion 154 and a second support surface 147 of the second slot 142 oppose one another to limit movement of the retainer 104 in the tangential direction of the brake disc 80. Positioning the retainer 104 over the positioned first clamp 106 in the radial direction of the brake disc 80 can include positioning the retainer 104 in the radial direction of the brake disc 80 until the first protrusion 152 is inserted into the first slot 140 and the second protrusion 154 is inserted into the second slot 142.

[0122] The second end section 112 of the retainer 104 can define a channel, a first leg, a second leg, a bridge section, a first tab, a second tab, a first bearing surface, a second bearing surface, a first back surface, and a second back surface, which can be individually and relative to one another configured in substantially the same manner as the channel 119, the first leg 134, the second leg 136, the bridge section 138, the first tab 152, the second tab 154, the first bearing surface 156, the second bearing surface 158, the first back surface 160, and the second back surface 162 of the first end section 110. The second clamp 108 can include a first slot, a second slot, a first retaining surface, a second retaining surface, a first support surface, and a second support surface, which can be individually and relative to one another configured in substantially the same manner as the first slot 140, the second slot 142, the first retaining surface 141, the second retaining surface 143, the first support surface 145, and the second support surface 147 of the first clamp 106. The second end section 112 and the second clamp 108 can be configured to interlock or otherwise mate together when the second end section 112 is positioned over the second clamp 108 to help secure the position of the retainer 104 relative to the second clamp 108. The second end section 112 can be positioned over the second clamp 108 in substantially the same manner as the first end section 110 is positioned over the first clamp 106.

[0123] Figure 10 The techniques of may be performed manually by a user, or aided or automated by a machine.

[0124] The present disclosure includes the following embodiments.

[0125] Embodiment 1 : An assembly comprising: a first clamp configured to be slidable over a first surface of a brake disc in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, the first surface adjacent to a first drive slot on a periphery of the brake disc; a second clamp configured to be slidable over a second surface of the brake disc in a second tangential direction opposite the first tangential direction, the second surface adjacent to a second drive slot on the periphery of the brake disc; and a retainer configured to be slidable over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp is positioned over the first surface and the second clamp is positioned over the second surface to secure the first clamp and the second clamp to the brake disc.

[0126] Embodiment 2: The assembly of embodiment 1, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp includes a body section comprising: a drive face; and a back face opposite the drive face, wherein the back face is configured to engage a torque face of the brake disc when the first clamp is positioned over the first surface, and wherein the torque face defines a portion of the first drive slot of the brake disc.

[0127] Example 3: The assembly of Example 2, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp further comprises: a first arm extending from the body segment; and a second arm extending from the body segment.

[0128] Example 4: The assembly of Example 3, wherein the retainer is configured to contact the first arm and the second arm when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0129] Example 5: The assembly of Example 3 or 4, wherein the first arm and the second arm define a gap configured to receive a portion of the brake disc when the back face engages the torque face.

[0130] Example 6: The assembly of any one of Examples 3-5, wherein the first arm and the second arm are angled away from each other when the back face engages the torque face.

[0131] Example 7: The assembly of any one of Examples 1-6, wherein the retainer defines a channel having a first open end and a second open end opposite the first open end, wherein the channel is configured to surround a portion of a single clamp when the retainer is positioned over the single clamp, wherein the single clamp is one of the first clamp or the second clamp.

[0132] Example 8: The assembly of any one of Examples 1-7, wherein the retainer comprises a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein the first protrusion is configured to be received in a first slot of a single clamp and the second protrusion is configured to be received in a second slot of the single clamp when the retainer is positioned over the single clamp, wherein the single clamp is one of the first clamp or the second clamp.

[0133] Example 9: The assembly of Example 10, wherein the retainer is resiliently biased to create an inward clamping force between the first protrusion and the second protrusion when the first protrusion is received in the first slot and the second protrusion is received in the second slot.

[0134] Example 10: The assembly of any one of Examples 1-9, wherein the retainer is configured to extend from the first clamp to the second clamp when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0135] Example 11: The assembly of any one of Examples 1-10, wherein the retainer is configured to conform to a portion of a perimeter of the brake disc when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0136] Example 12: The assembly of any of examples 1-11, wherein the first clamp is configured to frictionally engage the first surface in a rivetless configuration when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp, and wherein the second clamp is configured to frictionally engage the second surface in a rivetless configuration when the retainer is positioned over the second clamp.

[0137] Example 13: The assembly of any of examples 1-12, wherein the retainer is configured to be slidable over the first clamp and the second clamp in a radial direction of the brake disc when the first clamp is positioned over the first surface and the second clamp is positioned over the second surface.

[0138] Example 14: An assembly comprising: a brake disc defining: a first drive slot extending at least partially through a periphery of the brake disc in an axial direction of the brake disc, wherein a first torque face defines a portion of the first drive slot; a first surface adjacent to the first drive slot; a second drive slot extending at least partially through the periphery of the brake disc in the axial direction of the brake disc, wherein a second torque face defines a portion of the second drive slot; and a second surface adjacent to the second drive slot; a first clamp configured to be positioned on the brake disc by sliding over the first surface in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the first clamp is configured to cover at least a portion of the first torque face when the first clamp is positioned on the brake disc; a second clamp configured to be positioned on the brake disc by sliding over the second surface in a second tangential direction of the brake disc opposite the first tangential direction, wherein the second clamp is configured to cover at least a portion of the second torque face when the second clamp is positioned on the brake disc; and a retainer configured to be slidable over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp and the second clamp are positioned on the brake disc, wherein the retainer is configured to retain the first clamp and the second clamp on the brake disc when one of the first clamp or the second clamp is subjected to a force in a tangential direction of the brake disc.

[0139] Example 15: The assembly of example 14, wherein: the first clamp defines a first gap configured to receive a first portion of the brake disc when the first clamp is positioned on the brake disc, the second clamp defines a second gap configured to receive a second portion of the brake disc when the second clamp is positioned on the brake disc, and the retainer is configured to extend from the first clamp to the second clamp when the first gap receives the first portion of the brake disc and the second gap receives the second portion of the brake disc.

[0140] Example 16: The assembly of Example 14 or 15, wherein the retainer is resiliently biased to create a clamping force on the first clamp and the second clamp toward the brake disc when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0141] Example 17: The assembly of any of Examples 14-16, wherein: the retainer is configured to limit movement of the first clamp in an outward radial direction of the brake disc when the first clamp is positioned on the brake disc and the retainer is positioned over the first clamp, and the retainer is configured to limit movement of the second clamp in the outward radial direction of the brake disc when the second clamp is positioned on the brake disc and the retainer is positioned over the second clamp.

[0142] Example 18: The assembly of any of Examples 14-17, wherein the retainer is configured to conform to a portion of a perimeter of the brake disc when the retainer is positioned over the first clamp and the second clamp.

[0143] Example 19: A method comprising: positioning a first clamp on a brake disc, wherein positioning the first clamp on the brake disc comprises sliding the first clamp over a first surface in a first tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the first surface is adjacent to a first drive slot on a perimeter of the brake disc; positioning a second clamp on the brake disc, wherein positioning the second clamp on the brake disc comprises sliding the second clamp over a second surface in a second tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the second tangential direction is opposite the first tangential direction, and wherein the second surface is adjacent to a second drive slot on the perimeter of the brake disc; and after positioning the first clamp and the second clamp on the brake disc, positioning a retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp, wherein positioning the retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp comprises sliding the retainer over the first clamp and sliding the retainer over the second clamp.

[0144] Example 20: The method of Example 19, wherein positioning the retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp comprises sliding the retainer over the first clamp and the second clamp in a radial direction of the brake disc.

[0145] Various examples have been described. These and other examples are within the scope of the following claims.

Claims

1. A drive bushing assembly for a brake disc, the assembly comprising: A first clamp is configured to slide above a first surface of the brake disc along a first tangential direction, the first surface being adjacent to a first drive groove on the periphery of the brake disc. A second clamp is configured to slide above a second surface of the brake disc along a second tangential direction opposite to the first tangential direction, the second surface being adjacent to a second drive groove on the periphery of the brake disc; and A retainer configured to slide over the first clamp and the second clamp when the first clamp is positioned above the first surface and the second clamp is positioned above the second surface, to secure the first clamp and the second clamp to the brake disc. When the retainer is positioned above at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp, the retainer is elastically biased to generate an inward clamping force toward the brake disc on at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp.

2. The component of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp includes a body segment, the body segment comprising: Driven surface; and The back side, which is opposite to the driving surface, The back surface is configured to engage the torque surface of the brake disc when the first clamp is positioned above the first surface, and The torque surface defines a portion of the first drive groove of the brake disc.

3. The component of claim 2, wherein at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp further comprises: A first arm extends from the main body section; and The second arm extends from the main body section.

4. The component of claim 3, wherein the retainer is configured to contact the first arm and the second arm when the retainer is positioned above the first clamp and the second clamp.

5. The component of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the retainer defines a channel having a first open end and a second open end opposite to the first open end, wherein the channel is configured to surround a portion of a single clamp when the retainer is positioned above the single clamp, wherein the single clamp is one of the first clamp or the second clamp.

6. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the retainer includes a first protrusion and a second protrusion, wherein when the retainer is positioned above a single clamp, the first protrusion is configured to be received in a first slot of the single clamp, and the second protrusion is configured to be received in a second slot of the single clamp, wherein the single clamp is one of the first clamp or the second clamp.

7. The component of claim 6, wherein when the first protrusion is received in the first groove and the second protrusion is received in the second groove, the retainer is resiliently biased to generate the inward clamping force between the first protrusion and the second protrusion.

8. The component according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first clamp is configured to frictionally engage the first surface in a rivetless configuration when the retainer is positioned above the first clamp, and wherein the second clamp is configured to frictionally engage the second surface in a rivetless configuration when the retainer is positioned above the second clamp.

9. A method for positioning a drive bushing assembly on a brake disc, the method comprising: Positioning the first clamp on the brake disc, wherein positioning the first clamp on the brake disc includes sliding the first clamp above a first surface along a first tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the first surface is adjacent to a first drive groove on the periphery of the brake disc; Positioning the second clamp on the brake disc, wherein positioning the second clamp on the brake disc includes sliding the second clamp above a second surface along a second tangential direction of the brake disc, wherein the second tangential direction is opposite to the first tangential direction, and wherein the second surface is adjacent to a second drive groove on the periphery of the brake disc; After positioning the first clamp and the second clamp on the brake disc, a retainer is positioned above the first clamp and the second clamp, wherein positioning the retainer above the first clamp and the second clamp includes sliding the retainer above the first clamp and sliding the retainer above the second clamp; and When the retainer is positioned above the first clamp and the second clamp, an inward clamping force toward the brake disc is applied to at least one of the first clamp or the second clamp by elastically biasing the retainer.

10. The method of claim 9, wherein positioning the retainer above the first clamp and the second clamp comprises sliding the retainer above the first clamp and the second clamp in the radial direction of the brake disc.

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