Pad-pin assembly, brake pad, brake caliper, method

Abstract

Pad-pin assembly for a brake caliper, comprising at least one brake pad and at least one first pin (33a), said pad being provided with at least a first slot (31), wherein said first slot (31) comprises a first slot edge (37) suitable to house said first pin (33a) in a clearance- leaving manner; wherein said first slot edge defines a first slot profile in a plane defined by the plate; said first slot profile comprising a first side (11) and a second side (12) of the first slot along which said first pin (33a) slides, wherein said first side (11) of the first slot and said second side (12) of the first slot converge with each other and are opposite with respect to said tangential direction (T-T). The present application also provides a brake pad for a brake caliper, a brake caliper for a disc brake of a vehicle and a method for positioning a brake pad during release of a braking action.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The object of the present invention is a pad-pin assembly for brake calipers and a brake pad and brake pin for brake pins.

[0002] In particular, the present invention relates to a pad suitable for mounting on at least one pin provided in a brake caliper in a manner with clearance.

[0003] Furthermore, the object of the present invention is a method for positioning the pad on the at least one pin once the braking action is released. Background Technology

[0004] In a disc brake, the axial direction is defined as the direction around which the brake disc rotates, the radial direction is defined as substantially orthogonal to the axial direction, and the tangential or circumferential direction is defined as orthogonal to both the axial and radial directions, thus essentially forming a cylindrical coordinate system.

[0005] Known brake calipers are typically equipped with a pad adapted to engage with the brake band of the brake disc associated with the brake caliper, so as to decelerate the vehicle with the brake caliper mounted. The pad may be supported by a pin connected to the body of the brake caliper, and therefore the pad may include a hole in which the pin is inserted with clearance so that the pad can slide along the pin when subjected to an associated thrust.

[0006] According to the known types of pads, the pin also has the function of transmitting braking force to the brake caliper itself, rather than having the pad with its side adjacent to the brake caliper body to release this braking effect.

[0007] The plate of this type of pad includes a pair of side lugs that extend laterally in the tangential direction, wherein eyelets are formed to receive pins. Typically, the side lugs are formed on the radially inner portion of the plate.

[0008] The eyelets are typically square in shape with rounded or beveled corners. The pins that support the pads are typically cylindrical in shape with a circular cross-section. The distance and size of the eyelets and pins are usually chosen such that, during braking, the pads are placed in traction and transmit braking force to the pins located on the inlet side of the brake disc in the space between the pads, while the pins located on the outlet side of the disc provide radial support.

[0009] For example, certain types of pads and corresponding pins of this type are known from documents EP2318729 and EP2746612 from the same applicant.

[0010] By employing this known type of pad, it has been found that the brake pad can be arranged in various resting configurations for each release of the braking action, wherein the pad rests on the pin. In particular, depending on the load and radial and tangential movement history of the pad during the braking action, once the braking action is released, the brake pad-pin is located in slightly different resting positions along the circumferential or tangential directions.

[0011] Therefore, in this known type of pad-pin assembly, the brake pad can be in different positions at the start of a general braking action. Consequently, the motion and acceleration of the pad, as well as the intensity of the associated impact or strike of the pad on the pin, depend on the load history of the previous braking action. This makes it difficult to take targeted countermeasures to limit vibration propagation as much as possible. Vibration propagation may cause the inherent frequency of the braking system or its components to produce annoying vibrations and noise.

[0012] Furthermore, this difference in the resting position after the brake action is released is exacerbated by variations in the structural tolerances of the pins and orifices, as well as by the temperature-dependent changes in the dimensions of the pins and orifices, making it more complex to define targeted countermeasures against triggering vibrations and whistling in the braking system.

[0013] Therefore, the following requirement arises: to ensure that the brake pad-pin has a stable contact point that is repeatable whenever the pad is in the resting position.

[0014] Furthermore, it is strongly believed that a pad, and a pad-pin assembly, should be constructed that allows the kinematics of the pad to be obtained from the moment the braking action is released to the moment it is in the resting position. This kinematics can be safely repeated without taking into account the construction tolerances of the grooves or holes in the pad-pin and the thermal variations in the dimensions of the pad-pin, so as to minimize any differences between the pin and the pad in the resting adjustment position.

[0015] Therefore, the fundamental problem of the present invention is to design a pad-pin assembly, a brake pad, a brake caliper, and a method for positioning the pad during brake release, the structural and functional features of which satisfy the above requirements, while also solving the defects mentioned in the prior art and meeting the above needs. Summary of the Invention

[0016] The present invention aims to provide a pad-pin assembly, a brake pad, a brake caliper, and a method for positioning the pad at the end of braking action.

[0017] This object and other objects and advantages are achieved by the components, brake pads, brake calipers and methods according to embodiments of this application.

[0018] The analysis of this solution demonstrates how it can create a safe and repeatable contact between the pin and the pad, thereby minimizing any deviation in the tangential direction of the pad during brake release in a manner superior to existing solutions.

[0019] Furthermore, the proposed solution enables predictable pad kinematics upon returning to the resting position, regardless of previous braking history.

[0020] Furthermore, the proposed solution ensures that the tangential movement of the pad is more uniform during each braking process.

[0021] Furthermore, the proposed solution allows for more movement of the pads, further limiting the occurrence of noise or whistling.

[0022] Furthermore, due to the proposed solution, which provides two essentially straight and converging groove sides, the pad can be securely and repeatedly positioned on the pin in the resting position, regardless of the size of the pin and the size of the eyelet or groove.

[0023] Furthermore, due to the proposed solution, since the sides of the two first grooves are tangentially opposite each other and converge at the radially outer point, and since the sides of the first grooves are substantially parallel to the tangential or horizontal direction, the pad can be safely and repeatedly guided to a single resting position, while compensating for the construction tolerances of the pins and grooves and their variations according to temperature. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Further features and advantages of the pad-pin assembly, pad, and brake caliper become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments given by way of non-limiting example with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein: - Figure 1 This is an isometric view of a brake caliper according to one embodiment; - Figure 2 This is a side view of a portion of a disc brake according to one embodiment; - Figure 3 It is a cross-section shown along the longitudinal plane of the brake caliper according to one embodiment; - Figure 4 This shows an isometric view of a pad according to one embodiment; - Figure 5 This is a front view of an assembly including a pad and two pins according to one embodiment under non-braking conditions, showing the first symmetrical groove; - Figure 6 This is a front view of an assembly including a pad and two pins according to one embodiment under non-braking conditions, showing the first asymmetric groove. - Figure 7It shows Figure 5 The details of the components, especially Figure 7 Symmetrical grooves are shown; - Figure 8 It shows Figure 6 The details of the components, especially Figure 8 Asymmetric grooves are shown; - Figure 9 It shows Figure 6 The details of the components, especially Figure 9 A rectangular groove is shown; - Figure 10 A graph is shown that illustrates the tangential position of a known type of brake pad during two consecutive braking actions in the forward direction of operation and two consecutive braking actions in the reverse direction. - Figure 11 A diagram is shown that illustrates the adoption of the present invention. Figure 5 The tangential position of the brake pad of at least one symmetrical groove during two consecutive braking actions in the forward direction of operation and two consecutive braking actions in the reverse direction. - Figure 12 A diagram is shown that illustrates the adoption of the present invention. Figure 6 The tangential position of the brake pad of at least one asymmetrical groove during two consecutive braking actions in the forward direction of operation and two consecutive braking actions in the reverse direction. - Figure 13 Show Figure 5 The first symmetrical groove of the pad illustrates the balance of forces exchanged between the first pin and the first symmetrical groove when the pad is in the resting or brake release configuration. - Figure 14 Show Figure 6 The first asymmetric groove of the pad illustrates the balance of forces exchanged between the first pin and the first asymmetric groove when the pad is in a resting or brake-release configuration. - Figure 15 and Figure 16 The braking structure is shown respectively. Figure 5 The forces exchanged between the first symmetrical groove and the first pin of the pad in the braking structure in the opposite direction and in the braking structure in the forward operating direction. - Figure 17 and Figure 18 The braking structure is shown respectively. Figure 6 The forces exchanged between the first symmetrical groove and the first pin of the pad in the braking structure in the opposite direction and in the braking structure in the forward operating direction. Detailed Implementation

[0025] According to a general implementation, a pad-pin assembly 1 for a brake caliper 8 is provided.

[0026] The brake caliper 8 includes a caliper body 9 adapted to be arranged across the brake disc 4.

[0027] The pad-pin assembly 1 defines an axial direction AA that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc 4, a radial direction RR that is orthogonal to the axial direction AA, and a tangential or circumferential direction TT that is orthogonal to both the axial direction AA and the radial direction RR.

[0028] The component 1 includes at least one brake pad 2 and at least one first pin 33a.

[0029] According to one embodiment, the component includes at least a second pin 33b.

[0030] The brake pad 2 is adapted to be adjacent to the brake band 5 of the brake disc 4.

[0031] The pad 2 includes at least one plate 6 and at least one friction material element 7 supported by the plate 6.

[0032] The plate 6 has a general extension in the radial direction RR and the tangential direction TT.

[0033] The pad 2 is provided with at least a first groove 31.

[0034] According to an embodiment, the pad 2 is provided with at least a second groove 32.

[0035] The first groove 31 includes a first groove edge 37 adapted to receive the first pin 33a in a manner that allows for clearance.

[0036] According to an embodiment, the second groove 32 includes a second groove edge 38.

[0037] According to an embodiment, the edge of the second groove is adapted to accommodate the second pin 33b with a clearance.

[0038] The first groove edge 37 defines the first groove profile within the plane RT defined by the plate 6.

[0039] According to an embodiment, the second groove edge 38 defines the second groove profile in the plane RT defined in the plate 6.

[0040] The first groove profile forms a closed path.

[0041] According to the implementation method, the second groove profile forms a corresponding closed path.

[0042] The first groove profile includes at least one tangentially inward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a first side 11 of the first groove, and the first groove profile includes a tangentially outward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a second side 12 of the first groove, and the first pin 33a slides along the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove.

[0043] According to an embodiment, the second groove profile includes at least a first side portion 30 of the second groove.

[0044] Advantageously, the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove are convergent and opposite to each other with respect to the tangential direction TT.

[0045] The component 1 has a brake release configuration in which the pad 2 rests relative to at least one first pin 33a.

[0046] According to the embodiment, in the brake release structure, the pad 2 and the pins 33a and 33b are in a resting state.

[0047] Advantageously, in the brake release configuration, the first pin 33a is adjacent to the first groove profile and simultaneously contacts at least two support points of the first groove that are opposite each other relative to the tangential direction TT, or contacts the first support point 13 and the second support point 14 of the first groove that are opposite each other relative to the tangential direction TT.

[0048] At least two support points 13 and 14 of the first groove are respectively arranged on the first side 11 of the first groove and the second side 12 of the first groove.

[0049] According to an embodiment, in the brake release configuration, the brake pad is pushed against the first pin 33a by a radial force Fs, and the radial force Fs is balanced by constraint reaction forces F1 and F2.

[0050] According to one embodiment, in the brake release configuration, the second pin 33b is adjacent to the outline of the second groove and contacts at least one support point 15 of the second groove arranged on the first side portion 30 of the second groove, thereby preventing contact with other sides of the second groove.

[0051] According to an embodiment, the first side portion 11 of the first groove is inclined at an angle ALFA relative to the tangential direction TT of the first support point 13 passing through the first groove.

[0052] According to one embodiment, the angle ALFA of the first side of the first groove is between 30° and 80°. According to another embodiment, the angle ALFA of the first side of the first groove is between 65° and 80°.

[0053] According to an embodiment, the extensions of the first side portion 11 and the second side portion 12 of the first groove meet at a radially outer point relative to the profile of the first groove, particularly at a radially outer point.

[0054] According to an embodiment, in the brake release configuration, at least one support point 15 of the second groove and at least one of the two support points of the first groove are arranged in the same tangential direction TT or circumferential direction CC.

[0055] According to an embodiment, in the brake release configuration, at least one support point 15 of the second groove and at least one of the two support points of the first groove have the same radial distance along the radial direction RR relative to the rotation axis of the brake disc 4.

[0056] Since at least three support points are provided between the pin and the pad in the mounting structure, the mounting position of the pad can be defined as clearly as possible when the braking action is released.

[0057] Since at least two support points are provided that are tangentially aligned with each other on the first groove 31 and the second groove 32, namely at least the first support point 13 of the first groove and at least the first support point 15 of the second groove, and since the first side 11 of the first groove and the second side 12 of the first groove converge with each other, a safe and stable placement position for the brake pad 2 can be defined.

[0058] According to an embodiment, the first groove edge 37 extends along the axial direction AA, and the second groove edge 38 extends along the axial direction AA.

[0059] According to one embodiment, the plate 6 includes a radially inner edge 43 and a radially outer edge 44. According to one embodiment, the plate 6 includes a first side wing 41 and a second side wing 42 located at opposite tangential ends of the plate 6. According to one embodiment, the plate 6 further includes at least a first side ear 51 extending at least tangentially TT from the first side wing 41 and at least a second side ear 52 extending at least tangentially TT from the second side wing 42. The first side ear 51 is provided with at least the first groove 31.

[0060] According to an embodiment, the second ear-shaped member 52 is provided with at least the second groove 32, such that the plate includes at least two grooves 31 and 32.

[0061] According to one embodiment, the second side ear 52 is a guide ear without a groove, configured to be inserted with clearance into a niche obtained in the caliper body, allowing the second side ear 52 to slide within the niche. The second side ear 52 includes a first side portion defining the second side ear 52 in a radially outward direction, wherein the first side portion of the second side ear contacts the niche in at least one support point 15 of the side ear in the brake release configuration. According to one embodiment, at least one support point 15 of the side ear and at least one of the two support points of the first slot are arranged to be aligned in the same tangential direction TT or circumferential direction CC. According to one embodiment, in the brake release configuration, at least one support point 15 of the side ear and at least one of the two support points of the first slot are arranged at the same radial distance relative to the axis of rotation of the brake disc 4 in the radial direction RR.

[0062] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a tangentially inward and radially inward side of the first groove, or a third side 16 of the first groove, which is joined to a first side 11 of the first groove.

[0063] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a tangentially outward and radially inward side portion of the first groove, or a fourth side portion 17 of the first groove, which is joined to a second side portion 12 of the first groove.

[0064] According to an embodiment, the third side portion 16 of the first groove is arranged parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0065] According to an embodiment, the fourth side portion 17 of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0066] According to an embodiment, the first side portion 11 of the first groove is inclined at an angle between 20° and 70° relative to the third side portion 16 of the first groove.

[0067] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a radially inner portion of the first groove or a fifth side portion 21 of the first groove, and the first pin 33a slides on the fifth side portion.

[0068] According to the embodiment, the fifth side portion 21 of the first groove is parallel to the tangential direction TT that passes through at least one support point 15 of the second groove and the first support point 13 of the first groove.

[0069] According to an embodiment, the fifth side 21 of the first groove is indirectly connected to the first side 11 of the first groove and the second side 12 of the first groove.

[0070] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a radially outer portion of the first groove or a sixth side portion 22 of the first groove, the sixth side portion engaging a first side portion 11 of the first groove to a second side portion 12 of the first groove, wherein the first pin 33a and the first groove 31 have dimensions such that the first pin 33a is always spaced apart from the sixth side portion 22 of the first groove.

[0071] According to one embodiment, the first pin 33a has a diameter Dp between 6 mm and 12 mm. According to another embodiment, the second pin 33b has a diameter Dp between 6 mm and 12 mm.

[0072] According to the embodiment, when the first pin 33a contacts at least two support points 13 and 14 of the first groove simultaneously, the first pin 33a and the third side portion 16 of the first groove are at the minimum tangential distance D of the first pin.

[0073] The minimum tangential distance D of the first pin refers to the distance between the third side 16 of the first groove and the perpendicular tangent of the first pin parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0074] According to the implementation method, the minimum tangential distance D of the first pin is less than 1 mm.

[0075] According to an embodiment, the tangential distance D of the first pin is between 0.10 mm and 0.80 mm, preferably between 0.20 mm and 0.35 mm. According to an embodiment, the tangential distance D of the first pin is between 1 / 100 and 1 / 20 of the diameter Dp of the pin, preferably between 1 / 60 and 1 / 30.

[0076] Since the minimum tangential distance D of the first pin is provided between the first pin 33a and the third side 16 of the first groove, under the actuation condition in the opposite direction, the first pin 33a extends along the first side 11 of the first groove to be adjacent to the third side 16 of the first groove and adjacent to the first side 11 of the first groove, thereby preventing the release of braking force on the caliper body through the first wing 41 or the second wing 42 of the plate 6.

[0077] According to the embodiment, the minimum tangential distance D of the first pin is configured such that, in the reverse running braking state, the third side 16 of the first groove and the first side 11 of the first groove are adjacent to the first pin 33a, thereby preventing the release of braking force on the caliper body along the tangential direction TT via the first side wing 41 or the second side wing 42.

[0078] According to an embodiment, the component 1 has a forward-moving braking structure or a reverse-moving braking structure, wherein the pad 2 undergoes a braking action.

[0079] According to the embodiment, in the forward braking configuration or the reverse braking configuration, the pad 2 prevents the release of braking force on the caliper body through the first side wing 41 or the second side wing of the plate 6.

[0080] According to the embodiment, in the reverse braking structure, the first pin 33a is at a reverse running braking distance D' with the first side 12 of the first groove or the fourth side 17 of the first groove.

[0081] The reverse running braking distance D' refers to the distance between the tangent of the first pin 33a, which is parallel to the radial direction RR, and the second side 12 of the first groove, or the distance from the fourth side 17 of the first groove, when the component is in the reverse running braking configuration.

[0082] According to the embodiment, in the positive braking structure, the first pin 33a and the third side portion 16 of the first groove are at a positive operating braking distance D''.

[0083] The forward running braking distance D'' refers to the distance between the tangent of the first pin 33a parallel to the radial direction RR and the third side portion 16 of the first groove when the component is in the forward running braking configuration.

[0084] According to one embodiment, the forward braking distance D'' is equal to the reverse braking distance D'. According to another embodiment, the forward braking distance D'' and the reverse braking distance D' are equal to the minimum tangential distance D of the first pin.

[0085] According to the implementation method, the reverse running braking distance D' and the forward running distance D' are equal to twice the minimum tangential distance D.

[0086] According to the embodiment, in the reverse running braking structure and the forward running braking structure, the first groove 31 is adjacent to the first pin 33a in at least two braking contact points, namely the first braking contact point and the second braking contact point.

[0087] According to the embodiment, in the reverse running braking structure, the first braking contact point is located on the first side 11 of the first groove, and the second braking contact point is located on the third side 16 of the first groove, respectively releasing the first reverse running force Fr1 and the second reverse running force Fr2.

[0088] According to the embodiment, in the forward running braking structure, the first braking contact point is located on the second side 12 of the first groove, and the second braking contact point is located on the fourth side 17 of the first groove, respectively releasing the first forward running force Ff1 and the second forward running force Ff2.

[0089] According to the embodiment, in the forward running braking structure, the first braking contact point is located on the first side 11 of the first groove, and the second braking contact point is located on the second side 12 of the first groove, respectively releasing the first forward running force Ff1 and the second forward running force Ff2.

[0090] According to the embodiment, in the forward running braking structure or the reverse running braking structure, the second pin 33b is adjacent to the outline of the second groove and contacts at least one support point 15 of the second groove arranged on the first side portion 30 of the second groove.

[0091] According to the embodiment, in the forward running braking structure or the reverse running braking structure, the second pin 33b is adjacent to the outline of the second groove and contacts at least one support point 15 of the second groove arranged on the first side 30 of the second groove, thereby avoiding contact with other sides of the second groove.

[0092] According to the embodiment, when the first pin 33a is in contact with at least two support points 13 and 14 of the first groove at the same time, the first pin 33a and the fifth side portion 21 of the first groove are at the minimum radial distance H of the first pin.

[0093] The minimum radial distance H of the pin refers to the distance between the horizontal tangent of the pin parallel to the tangential direction TT and the fifth side 21 of the first groove.

[0094] According to an embodiment, the radial distance H of the first pin is between 0.30 mm and 2.65 mm, preferably between 1.00 mm and 1.50 mm.

[0095] According to an embodiment, the radial distance H of the first pin is between 1 / 80 and 1 / 2 of the pin diameter Dp, preferably between 1 / 10 and 1 / 6.

[0096] According to an embodiment, the first pin 33a has a diameter Dp of the first pin, and the first groove 31 has a plurality of engagement diameters Di of the first groove that engage the first adjacent side of the sides 11, 12, 16, 17, 21, 22 of the first groove, wherein each engagement diameter Di of the first groove is smaller than the diameter Dp of the first pin.

[0097] According to an embodiment, the second pin 33b has the diameter Dp of the first pin, and the second groove 32 has a plurality of engagement diameters Di of the second groove that engage the first adjacent side of the sides 27, 28, 29, 30 of the first groove, wherein each engagement diameter Di of the second groove is smaller than the diameter Dp of the first pin.

[0098] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a tangential inward arcuate portion of the first groove or a first arcuate portion 18 of the first groove, wherein the first arcuate portion joins the third side portion 16 of the first groove to the first side portion 11 of the first groove.

[0099] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes an arcuate portion that is radially inward and tangentially inward of the first groove, or a third arcuate portion 23 that joins the tangentially inward and radially inward side portion 16 of the first groove to the radially inner side portion 21 of the first groove.

[0100] According to the embodiment, the first groove profile includes an arcuate portion that is radially inward and tangentially outward, or a fourth arcuate portion 24 of the first groove, which joins the tangentially outward and radially inward side portion 17 of the first groove to the radially inner side portion 21 of the first groove.

[0101] According to an embodiment, the profile of the first groove is symmetrical with respect to the axis of symmetry AA of the first groove, which is parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0102] According to an embodiment, the axis of symmetry AA of the first groove is substantially parallel to the central axis mm, which is adapted to divide the pad 2 into two substantially equal extending portions in the tangential direction TT.

[0103] According to an embodiment, the second side 12 of the first groove and the first side 11 of the first groove are mirror images.

[0104] According to the embodiment, the first support point 13 of the first groove and the second support point 14 of the first groove are aligned at the same tangential direction TT passing through the first support point 13 of the first groove, the second support point 14 of the first groove and at least one support point 15 of the second groove.

[0105] According to the embodiment, the second support point 14 of the first groove and the first support point 13 of the first groove are at the same radial distance relative to the fifth side portion 21 of the first groove.

[0106] According to an embodiment, the first groove profile includes a tangentially outward arcuate portion of the first groove or a second arcuate portion 19 of the first groove, wherein the second arcuate portion joins the fourth side portion 17 of the first groove to the second side portion 12 of the first groove.

[0107] Advantageously, since both the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove are inclined at the angle ALFA of the first groove, the first pin 33a is allowed to be squeezed between the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove, ensuring the safe position of the first pin 33a.

[0108] Due to the first symmetrical groove 31, the brake pad 2 has symmetrical dynamic behavior on the tangent of reverse brake release and forward running brake release.

[0109] According to one embodiment, the first groove 31 is asymmetrical. According to another embodiment, the profile of the first groove is asymmetrical with respect to any axis AA of the first groove parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0110] According to an embodiment, the second side portion 12 of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction RR.

[0111] According to the embodiment, the radial distance between the second support point 14 of the first groove and the fifth side portion 21 of the first groove is less than the radial distance between the first support point 13 of the first groove and the fifth side portion 21 of the first groove.

[0112] According to one embodiment, the second side portion 12 of the first groove extends along a vertical direction VV substantially parallel to the central axis mm, adapted to divide the pad 2 into two substantially equal extended portions in the tangential direction TT.

[0113] Since the second side 12 of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction RR, and since the first side 11 of the first groove is inclined, the first pin 33a can be squeezed into the first groove 31, thus reducing the tangential movement of the brake pad 2 during forward braking relative to the tangential movement during reverse braking.

[0114] Since the second side 12 of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction RR, when braking occurs during operation in the positive direction, the first pin 33a has already contacted the second side 12 of the first groove, thereby reducing the pin impact event when the first pin 33a strikes when it is adjacent to the first side 11 of the first groove and contacts the first support point 13 of the first groove.

[0115] pass Figure 10 and Figure 11 , Figure 12 The comparison reveals the difference in kinematic behavior between the pad according to the invention and a typical pad, showing the tangential motion of the pad after two positive braking actions and two negative braking actions.

[0116] from Figure 11 and Figure 12 The comparison shows that the difference in the kinematic behavior of the brake pad 2 depends on whether the brake pad is provided with the first symmetrical groove or the asymmetrical groove as described above.

[0117] According to the embodiment, the second slot 32 is a mirror image of the first slot 31.

[0118] According to the embodiment, the brake pad 2 is axisymmetric.

[0119] According to an embodiment, the first side portion 30 of the second groove is parallel to the tangential direction TT of the at least one support point 15 passing through the second groove, so that when the first pin 33a is adjacent to the profile of the first groove and contacts the first support point 13 and the second support point 14 of the first groove, the second pin 33b slides on the first side portion 30 of the second groove until it is adjacent to the support point 15 of the second groove.

[0120] According to an embodiment, the second groove 32 is a rectangle with beveled angles.

[0121] According to an embodiment, the second groove profile has at least four sides 27, 28, 29, 30 of the second groove.

[0122] According to the embodiment, the four sides 27, 28, 29, 30 of the second groove include the tangential inner side 27, the tangential outer side 28, the radial inner side 29, and the radial outer side 30 of the second groove.

[0123] According to an embodiment, the second groove profile has at least four arcuate portions 33, 34, 35, and 36 of the second groove, and the at least four arcuate portions engage with four side portions 27, 28, 29, and 30 of the second groove.

[0124] According to the embodiment, the second groove profile and the second pin 33b are sized such that the second pin 33b slides on each side 27, 28, 29, 30 of the second groove 32, avoiding contact with each of the arcuate portions 33, 34, 35, 36 of the second groove.

[0125] Advantageously, a second rectangular groove 32 is provided associated with the first groove 31 having at least two sides 11, 12, the at least two sides being opposite to each other and converging in the tangential direction TT of the side 11, so that the brake pad 2 can be guided on the second pin 33b and the first pin 33a.

[0126] The present invention also relates to a brake pad 2 for the brake caliper 8, wherein the brake caliper 8 includes a caliper body 9 adapted to be arranged across the brake disc 4.

[0127] The pad 2 defines an axial direction AA that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc 4, a radial direction RR that is orthogonal to the axial direction AA, and a tangential or circumferential direction TT that is orthogonal to both the axial direction AA and the radial direction RR.

[0128] The brake pad 2 is adapted to be adjacent to the brake band 5 of the brake disc 4, wherein the pad 2 includes at least one plate 6 and at least one friction material element 7 supported by the plate 6; wherein the plate 6 has a main extension in the radial direction RR and the tangential direction TT.

[0129] The pad 2 is provided with at least a first groove 31.

[0130] According to an embodiment, the pad 2 is provided with a guide element.

[0131] According to the embodiment, the guide element is a second groove 32.

[0132] According to an embodiment, the guiding element is a second ear-shaped member 52 of the pad 2 configured to guide the pad.

[0133] The first groove 31 includes a first groove edge 37, which is adapted to accommodate the first pin 33a mounted on the caliper body 9 with a clearance.

[0134] According to an embodiment, the guide element defines the outline of the guide element within the plane RT defined by the plate 6.

[0135] According to an embodiment, the second groove 32 includes a second groove edge 38, which is adapted to accommodate a second pin 33b mounted on the caliper body 9 with a clearance.

[0136] The first groove edge 37 defines the first groove profile within the plane RT defined by the plate 6.

[0137] According to an embodiment, the second groove edge 38 defines the second groove profile in the plane RT defined in the plate 6.

[0138] According to an embodiment, the guide element profile is a second groove profile.

[0139] According to an embodiment, the guide element profile is the profile that defines the periphery of the second side ear-shaped member 52.

[0140] The first groove profile forms a closed profile.

[0141] According to the implementation method, the second groove profile forms a corresponding closed path.

[0142] The first groove profile includes at least one tangentially inward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a first side 11 of the first groove, and a tangentially outward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a second side 12 of the first groove, the first side and the second side converge with each other and the first pin 33a slides along the first side and the second side.

[0143] The first side portion 11 and the second side portion 12 of the first groove constitute / define an equivalent of the hinge, wherein the first pin 33a, when resting on the brake release profile, is adjacent to and simultaneously contacts at least two support points of the first groove arranged on the first side portion 11 and the second side portion 12 of the first groove, or simultaneously contacts the first support point 13 and the second support point 14 of the first groove.

[0144] According to an embodiment, the guide element profile includes a first side portion of the guide element, the first side portion of the guide element constituting / defining a sliding block, and the second pin 33b or the wall of the caliper body sliding along the sliding block until it is adjacent to at least one guide element support point arranged on the first side portion of the guide element in the brake release configuration.

[0145] According to one embodiment, the second groove profile includes a first side portion 30 of the second groove, wherein the first side portion of the guide element is the first side portion 30 of the second groove. According to one embodiment, the first side portion 30 of the second groove forms a sliding block, and the second pin 33b slides along the sliding block until it is adjacent to at least one support point 15 of the second groove arranged on the first side portion 30 of the second groove in the brake release configuration.

[0146] According to one embodiment, the second side ear 52 includes a first side portion defining the second side ear 52 in a radially outward direction, wherein the first side portion of the guide element is the first side portion of the second ear. According to one embodiment, the wall of the caliper body is a portion defining a cut obtained in the caliper body, in which the second side ear 52 slides. According to one embodiment, the first side portion of the second side ear forms a sliding block along which the wall of the caliper body slides until at least one support point is arranged adjacent to the first side portion of the second side ear in the brake release configuration.

[0147] According to one embodiment, the brake pad 2 is a pad in the pad-pin assembly 1 according to one of the embodiments described above.

[0148] The present invention also relates to a brake caliper 8 for a disc brake 3 for a vehicle.

[0149] The disc brake 3 is defined by an axial direction AA that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc 4, a radial direction RR that is orthogonal to the axial direction AA, and a tangential or circumferential direction TT that is orthogonal to both the axial direction AA and the radial direction RR.

[0150] The brake caliper 8 includes at least one component 1 as previously described according to the invention or at least one brake pad 2 as previously described according to the invention, as well as at least two pins 33a, 33b and a caliper body 9. The at least two pins 33a, 33b are connected to the caliper body and are adapted to extend from the caliper body 9 toward the brake band 5 of the associated brake disc 4.

[0151] The present invention also relates to a method for positioning the brake pad 2 during the release of a braking action.

[0152] The method includes the following steps: i- Provides at least one component 1, or at least one brake pad 2, and at least one first pin 33a; ii- Adapt the at least first slots 31, 32 to the at least first pin 33a disposed in the associated caliper body 9; Once the braking action that caused the brake pad 2 to move away from the brake disc 4 is released, the method provides an additional step: iii- By sliding the first pin 33a on the first side 11 or the second side 12 of the first groove until it is adjacent to and simultaneously contacts at least two tangentially opposite support points 13, 14 of the first groove arranged on the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove, respectively, the first pin 33a is squeezed between the first side 11 and the second side 12 of the first groove.

[0153] According to the operating mode, step ii envisions adapting the second slot 32 to the second pin 33b disposed in the associated caliper body 9.

[0154] Based on one operating mode, the method envisions alternative steps: iv - in parallel with step iii -, move the second pin 33b along the first side 30 of the second groove, while simultaneously bringing the second pin adjacent to at least one support point 15 of the second groove.

[0155] List of reference numerals 1 pad-pin assembly 2 pads 3. Disc brakes 4. Brake disc 5. Brake band 6 boards 7 Friction Material Components 8 Brake calipers 9. Caliper body 11 The tangentially inward and radially outward side of the first groove, or the first side of the first groove. 12 The tangentially outward and radially outward side of the first groove, or the second side of the first groove. 13 First support point of the first trench 14 The second support point of the first groove 15 Support points of the second groove 16 The inner side of the first groove in the tangential direction and radial direction, or the third side of the first groove. 17 The tangentially outward and radially inward side of the first groove, or the fourth side of the first groove. 18 The tangential inward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, or the first arc-shaped portion of the first groove. 19 The tangential outward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, and the second arc-shaped portion of the first groove 21 The radially inner part of the first groove or the fifth side of the first groove 22 The radially outer part of the first groove or the sixth side of the first groove 23 The radially inward and tangentially inward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, or the third arc-shaped portion of the first groove. 24 The radially inward and tangentially outward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, or the fourth arc-shaped portion of the first groove. 25 The radially outward and tangentially inward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, or the fifth arc-shaped portion of the first groove. 26 The radially outward and tangentially outward arc-shaped portion of the first groove, or the sixth arc-shaped portion of the first groove. 27 The tangential inner part of the second groove, or the fourth side of the second groove. 28 The tangential outer part of the second groove, or the third side of the second groove 29 The radially inner part of the second groove, or the second side of the second groove 30 The radially outer part of the second groove, or the first side of the second groove 31 First slot 32 Second slot 33 The radially outward and tangentially outward arcuate portion of the second groove, or in other words, the first arcuate portion of the second groove. 34 The radially outward and tangentially inward arc-shaped portion of the second groove, or the second arc-shaped portion of the second groove. 35 The radially inward and tangentially outward arc-shaped portion of the second groove, or the third arc-shaped portion of the second groove. 36 The radially inward and tangentially inward arc-shaped portion of the second groove, or the fourth arc-shaped portion of the second groove. 41 First Flanking 42 Second Flanking 43 Radial inner edge 44 Radial outer edge 51 First ear-shaped piece 52 Second ear-shaped piece AA Axial direction TT circumferential or tangential direction RR Radial direction mm pad centerline The angle of the first side of the first groove or the inclination angle of the first groove in ALFA. Diameter of Dp pin Di First Groove Multiple Joining Diameters Multiple joint diameters of the second groove in Dt D. Minimum tangential distance of the first pin H is the minimum radial distance of the first pin.

Claims

1. A pad-pin assembly (1) for a brake caliper (8), wherein, The brake caliper (8) includes a caliper body (9) adapted to be arranged across the brake disc (4); The pad-pin assembly (1) defines an axial direction (AA) that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc (4), a radial direction (RR) that is orthogonal to the axial direction (AA), and a tangential direction (TT) that is orthogonal to both the axial direction (AA) and the radial direction (RR). The pad-pin assembly (1) includes at least one brake pad (2) and at least one first pin (33a). The brake pad (2) is adapted to be adjacent to the brake band (5) of the brake disc (4), wherein the brake pad (2) includes at least one plate (6) and at least one friction material element (7) supported by the plate (6); wherein the plate (6) has a main extension along the radial direction (RR) and the tangential direction (TT); The brake pad (2) is provided with at least a first groove (31), wherein the first groove (31) includes a first groove edge (37) adapted to receive the first pin (33a) in a manner with clearance. Wherein, the first groove edge (37) defines the first groove profile within the plane (RT) defined by the plate (6); Wherein, the first groove profile forms a closed path; The first groove profile includes at least one tangentially inward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a first side (11) of the first groove, and the first groove profile includes one tangentially outward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a second side (12) of the first groove. The first pin (33a) slides along the first side and the second side of the first groove, wherein the first side (11) and the second side (12) of the first groove converge with each other and are opposite to each other relative to the tangential direction (TT). The pad-pin assembly (1) has a brake release structure, wherein the first pin (33a) is adjacent to the first groove profile and the first pin (33a) simultaneously contacts at least two support points of the first groove that are opposite to each other relative to the tangential direction (TT), or simultaneously contacts the first support point (13) and the second support point (14) of the first groove that are opposite to each other relative to the tangential direction (TT), wherein at least the first support point (13) and the second support point (14) of the first groove are respectively arranged on the first side (11) and the second side (12) of the first groove; And wherein the second side (12) of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction (RR).

2. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 1, wherein, The pad-pin assembly (1) includes at least one second pin (33b), and the brake pad (2) is provided with at least one second groove (32), wherein the second groove (32) includes a second groove edge (38) adapted to receive the second pin (33b) in a slack manner, wherein the second groove edge (38) defines a second groove profile in a plane (RT) defined by the plate (6), wherein the second groove profile forms a corresponding closed path, wherein the second groove profile includes at least one radially outer portion (30) of the second groove, and wherein, in the brake release configuration, the second pin (33b) is adjacent to the second groove profile and contacts at least one support point of the second groove arranged on the radially outer portion (30) of the second groove.

3. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 2, in, At least the first side (11) of the first groove is inclined at an angle (ALFA) of the first side of the first groove relative to the tangential direction (TT) through the first support point (13) of the first groove; And / or wherein the extensions of the first side portion (11) and the second side portion (12) of the first groove meet at a radially outer point relative to the profile of the first groove; And / or wherein, in the brake release configuration, at least one support point (15) of the second slot and at least one of the two support points of the first slot are arranged to be aligned in the same tangential direction (TT); And / or wherein, in the brake release configuration, at least one support point (15) of the second groove and at least one of the two support points of the first groove have the same radial distance relative to the axis of rotation of the brake disc (4) along the radial direction (RR).

4. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 3, wherein, The angle (ALFA) of the first side of the first groove is between 30° and 80°.

5. The pad-pin assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The first groove profile includes a tangentially inward and radially inward side of the first groove that engages with a first side (11) of the first groove, or a third side (16) of the first groove that engages with a first side (11) of the first groove. and / or among them, The first groove profile includes a tangentially outward and radially inward side of the first groove that engages with the second side (12) of the first groove, or a fourth side (17) of the first groove that engages with the second side (12) of the first groove. And / or wherein the third side (16) of the first groove is arranged parallel to the radial direction (RR); And / or wherein the fourth side (17) of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction (RR); And / or wherein the first side portion (11) of the first groove is inclined at an angle between 20° and 70° relative to the third side portion (16) of the first groove; And / or wherein the first groove profile includes a radially inner portion of the first groove, or a fifth side portion (21) of the first groove, on which the first pin (33a) slides; And / or wherein the fifth side (21) of the first groove is parallel to the tangential direction (TT) that passes through at least one support point (15) of the second groove and the first support point (13) of the first groove simultaneously. And / or wherein the fifth side (21) of the first groove is indirectly joined to the first side (11) of the first groove and the second side (12) of the first groove. And / or wherein the first groove profile includes a radially outer portion of the first groove, or a sixth side portion (22) of the first groove, the sixth side portion engaging a first side portion (11) of the first groove to a second side portion (12) of the first groove, wherein the first pin (33a) and the first groove (31) have dimensions such that the first pin (33a) is always spaced apart from the sixth side portion (22) of the first groove.

6. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 5, wherein, When the first pin (33a) contacts at least two support points of the first groove simultaneously, the first pin is located at the minimum tangential distance (D) from the third side (16) of the first groove.

7. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The minimum tangential distance (D) of the first pin is between 0.10 mm and 0.80 mm.

8. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The minimum tangential distance (D) of the first pin is between 0.20 mm and 0.35 mm.

9. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 6, wherein, The plate (6) includes a first wing (41) and a second wing (42) located at opposite tangential ends of the plate (6), wherein the minimum tangential distance (D) of the first pin is configured such that, in the reverse running braking state, the first pin is adjacent to the brake pad (2) with the third side (16) of the first groove and the first side (11) of the first groove adjacent to the first pin (33a), thereby preventing the release of braking force on the caliper body along the tangential direction (TT) via the first wing (41) or the second wing (42).

10. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 5, wherein, The second support point (14) of the first groove is radially separated from the fifth side (21) of the first groove. The radial distance between the second support point of the first groove and the fifth side (21) of the first groove is less than the radial distance between the first support point (13) of the first groove and the fifth side (21) of the first groove. And / or wherein, when the first pin (33a) simultaneously contacts at least two support points of the first groove, the first pin (33a) is located at a minimum radial distance (H) from the fifth side (21) of the first groove. And / or wherein the first pin (33a) has a diameter (Dp) of the first pin, and the first groove (31) has a plurality of engagement diameters (Di) of the first groove that engage the sides of the first groove that first approach each other, wherein each engagement diameter (Di) of the first groove is smaller than the diameter (Dp) of the first pin. And / or wherein the first groove profile includes a tangentially inward arcuate portion of the first groove, or in other words includes a first arcuate portion (18) of the first groove, the first arcuate portion joining a third side portion (16) of the first groove to a first side portion (11) of the first groove. And / or the first groove profile includes a radially inward and tangentially inward arcuate portion of the first groove, or a third arcuate portion (23) of the first groove, which joins the tangentially inward and radially inward third side portion (16) of the first groove to the fifth side portion (21) of the first groove. And / or wherein the first groove profile includes a radially inner arcuate portion and a tangentially outer arcuate portion of the first groove, or includes a fourth arcuate portion (24) of the first groove, the fourth arcuate portion joining a fourth side portion (17) of the first groove that is tangentially outward and radially inward to a fifth side portion (21) of the first groove.

11. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The minimum radial distance (H) of the first pin is between 0.30 mm and 2.65 mm.

12. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 10, wherein, The minimum radial distance (H) of the first pin is between 1.00 mm and 1.50 mm.

13. The pad-pin assembly according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein, The second slot (32) is a mirror image of the first slot (31); And / or wherein the brake pad is axisymmetric, And / or wherein the first groove (31) is asymmetrical.

14. The pad-pin assembly according to claim 3 or 4, wherein, The radially outer portion (30) of the second groove is oriented parallel to the tangential direction (TT) passing through at least one support point (15) of the second groove, so that when the first pin (33a) is adjacent to the profile of the first groove and in contact with the first support point (13) and the second support point (14) of the first groove, the second pin (33b) slides on the radially outer portion (30) of the second groove until it is adjacent to the support point (15) of the second groove. And / or wherein the second slot (32) is rectangular, And / or wherein the second groove profile has at least four sides of the second groove; And / or wherein the four sides of the second groove include the tangential inner side (27), the tangential outer side (28), the radial inner side (29), and the radial outer side (30) of the second groove. And / or wherein the second groove profile has at least four arcuate portions of the second groove, and the at least four arcuate portions engage with four sides of the second groove; And / or wherein the second groove profile and the second pin (33b) have dimensions such that the second pin (33b) slides on each side of the second groove (32) to avoid contact with each of the arcuate portions of the second groove.

15. A brake pad (2) for a brake caliper (8), wherein the brake caliper (8) includes a caliper body (9) adapted to be arranged across a brake disc (4). The brake pad (2) defines an axial direction (AA) that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc (4), a radial direction (RR) that is orthogonal to the axial direction (AA), and a tangential direction (TT) that is orthogonal to both the axial direction (AA) and the radial direction (RR). in, The brake pad (2) is adapted to be adjacent to the brake band (5) of the brake disc (4), wherein the brake pad (2) includes at least one plate (6) and at least one friction material element (7) supported by the plate (6); wherein the plate (6) has a main extension along the radial direction (RR) and the tangential direction (TT); The brake pad (2) is provided with at least a first groove (31); The first groove (31) includes a first groove edge (37), which is adapted to accommodate a first pin (33a) mounted on the caliper body (9) with a clearance. Wherein, the first groove edge (37) defines the first groove profile within the plane (RT) defined by the plate (6); Wherein, the first groove profile forms a closed path; The first groove profile includes at least one tangentially inward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a first side (11) of the first groove, and the first groove profile includes a tangentially outward and radially outward side of the first groove, or a second side (12) of the first groove, the first side and the second side of the first groove converge with each other and the first pin (33a) slides along the first side and the second side of the first groove to form an equivalent of a hinge, wherein the first pin (33a) is placed adjacent to and simultaneously contacts at least two support points of the first groove arranged on the first side (11) and the second side (12) of the first groove, or simultaneously contacts the first support point (13) and the second support point (14) of the first groove, wherein the second side (12) of the first groove is parallel to the radial direction (RR).

16. The brake pad (2) according to claim 15, wherein the brake pad (2) is provided with at least one second groove (32), wherein the second groove (32) includes a second groove edge (38) adapted to receive a second pin (33b) mounted on the caliper body (9) with clearance, wherein The second groove edge (38) defines a second groove profile within the plane (RT) defined by the plate (6), wherein the second groove profile forms a corresponding closed path, wherein, in the brake release configuration, the second groove profile includes at least one radially outer portion (30) constituting a second groove of a sliding member, and the second pin (33b) slides along the sliding member until it reaches at least one support point (15) of the second groove arranged on the radially outer portion of the second groove (32) in the brake release configuration.

17. A brake caliper (8) for a disc brake (3) for a vehicle, wherein, The disc brake (3) defines an axial direction (AA) that coincides with or is parallel to the rotation axis of the brake disc (4), a radial direction (RR) that is orthogonal to the axial direction (AA), and a tangential direction (TT) that is orthogonal to both the axial direction (AA) and the radial direction (RR). The brake caliper (8) includes: - At least one pad-pin assembly (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, or at least one brake pad (2) according to claim 15 or 16; and at least one pin; - Caliper body (9); - wherein the at least one pin is connected to the caliper body and is adapted to extend outward from the caliper body (9) toward the brake band (5) of the associated brake disc (4).

18. A method for positioning a brake pad (2) during brake release, the method comprising the steps of: i- Provide at least one pad-pin assembly (1) according to any one of claims 2 to 14, or at least one brake pad (2) according to claim 15 or 16; and provide at least a first pin (33a). ii- Adapt at least the first slot (31) to at least the first pin (33a) disposed in the associated caliper body (9); Wherein, once the braking action that moves the brake pad (2) away from the brake disc (4) is released, the method provides an additional step: iii- By sliding the first pin (33a) on the first side (11) or the second side (12) of the first groove until adjacent to and simultaneously contacting at least two tangentially opposite support points of the first groove arranged on the first side (11) and the second side (12) of the first groove, the first pin (33a) is squeezed between the first side (11) and the second side (12) of the first groove.

19. The method for positioning the brake pad (2) during brake release according to claim 18, wherein, Step ii- also provides adapting the second slot (32) to a second pin (33b) disposed in the associated caliper body (9); and wherein the method includes the following additional steps: iv - in parallel with step iii -, move the second pin (33b) along the radially outer portion (30) of the second groove while simultaneously placing the second pin adjacent to at least one support point (15) of the second groove.

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