Brake pads
The brake pad system with a blocking device addresses the issue of particle emission and obstruction by efficiently collecting brake dust while preventing larger objects from entering the suction system, ensuring reliable operation and reduced mechanical stress.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- FR · FR
- Patent Type
- Patents
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2024-04-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
Existing brake pad systems emit harmful particles and dust due to friction, which are not efficiently collected and can obstruct the suction system, reducing its efficiency and potentially damaging components.
A brake pad design with a collection groove and conduit system that includes a blocking device to prevent objects larger than a specified dimension from entering, maintaining suction efficiency and protecting the system from obstruction.
The solution effectively maintains suction efficiency and prevents damage to the collection system by blocking larger foreign objects, ensuring reliable particle collection and reducing mechanical stress on filters.
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Abstract
Description
Title of the invention: Brake pad technical field
[0001] The scope of this disclosure relates to non-polluting braking systems intended for use in machines comprising a rotating element whose rotation is to be braked, such as, for example, road or rail vehicles, or structures comprising rotating elements, for example, wind turbines. In such braking systems, particles and dust are emitted by friction braking as a result of the abrasion of brake pads against the rotating element. This rotating element is, for example, the vehicle wheel or a disc driven by the rotating element. It is known that these particles dispersed into the surrounding environment are harmful to human health and to the environment.
[0002] Furthermore, the development of electric motors for motor vehicles has increased the need to treat the particles and dust resulting from the abrasion of friction braking systems. There is therefore a need to capture these particles and dust before they are released into the environment.
[0003] More specifically, the present disclosure relates to a brake pad, as well as a braking system comprising such a pad. Previous technique
[0004] In braking systems, a known example of which 10 is illustrated in [Fig. 1], it is common practice to use brake pads 1 to slow the rotation of a rotating element 11 by contact. This frictional action, as explained above, produces a significant quantity of particles.
[0005] French patent document FR3087238, illustrated in [Fig. 2], describes a pad 1 with a particle intake slot 4 that opens radially into an inlet 42 ([Fig. 2] top) on one side of the lining, in order to collect these particles more efficiently than a groove opening only onto the friction surface 21. Another solution ([Fig. 2] bottom) consists of providing an inlet 42 in the form of an orifice. This solution has the advantage of maintaining the level of vacuum and flow rate throughout the wear of the pad. Indeed, when the inlet 42 is a slot, its air intake area decreases as the lining 2 wears. The dimensions of the orifice that forms the air intake are adapted to obtain sufficient levels of vacuum and flow rate.
[0006] During operation, and more particularly in the case of an orifice-shaped mouthpiece, the mouthpiece 42 can be partially or totally obstructed by bodies foreign particles, such as small pebbles or mud, can render the system inoperative or reduce its efficiency: the suction power must be increased to continue capturing the same quantity of particles.
[0007] The purpose of this disclosure is therefore to mitigate at least in part the disadvantages of the prior art mentioned above.
[0008] In particular, one objective of this disclosure is to propose a plate that guarantees the maintenance of suction efficiency throughout its lifespan. Summary
[0009] The objectives mentioned above are achieved in particular by a brake pad comprising a sole and a lining supported on the sole, the lining comprising a friction surface suitable for contacting a rotor and a brake particle collection groove open on the friction surface, said collection groove being in fluid communication with: a conduit opening out of the friction surface in an opening, the conduit having a first diameter over a major part of its extent; and a suction hole suitable for being connected to a vacuum source, said pad comprising a blocking device configured to prevent a body of a dimension greater than a limit value from entering the conduit via the opening, the limit value being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter.
[0010] Thus, in a particularly effective manner, the solution according to the present disclosure provides additional protection beyond the simple geometry of the mouthpiece. Indeed, the inventors have observed that, although objects of dimensions substantially equal to those of the mouthpiece are blocked by the latter, it is primarily objects of dimensions slightly smaller than those of the mouthpiece that can be the most problematic. In fact, an object substantially smaller than the mouthpiece will not cause an obstruction problem: it will be drawn in and conveyed through the groove with the collected particles to an outlet of the system or to a treatment device downstream of the braking system, such as a filter, and will not interfere with the operation of the system.However, experience shows that an object slightly smaller than the first diameter, but larger than 90% of the duct's dimensions, is highly likely to become lodged at the inlet or within the duct itself, due to a snagging or similar phenomenon, and to completely or partially block the airflow, thus reducing the efficiency of the collection process. If the suction inlet becomes blocked, the suction power must be increased to maintain a target vacuum and a suitable collection rate. Furthermore, such an intrusion of an object into the system can also damage its components (piping, filter, etc.). The proposed solution therefore increases the reliability of the system. particle collection system.
[0011] The bodies in question may be of any shape, although they are represented as spherical in the drawings by way of example and for the sake of clarity. The term "size", "dimension" or "diameter" refers to the largest dimension of the body, regardless of its shape.
[0012] The plate according to this disclosure can be used for example in a road vehicle (cars, buses, trucks, ...) or railway vehicle (trains, trams, subways...), but also in a stationary rotor machine, such as a wind turbine or an industrial machine.
[0013] In examples, such a solution can be implemented on a braking system comprising two pads positioned opposite each other on either side of a rotor, so that each comes into contact with the latter (brake disc). Each pad may include a friction surface, in which at least one collection groove may be provided, the friction surface being configured to come into contact with the rotor.
[0014] The pads can be positioned so that the friction surfaces of the linings include at least one flat part substantially perpendicular to the axis of rotation of the rotor, on which contact can be made.
[0015] In other examples, the pads and their linings can be arranged differently, so as to be used in a drum brake system: the friction surface of the pads is then cylindrical and comes into radial contact with an inner face of the drum.
[0016] The linings are formed from a friction material, which may include a material commonly called "ferodo". The friction material may be chosen from a group including organic, metallic, semi-metallic, or ceramic materials.
[0017] Although such pads are typically used in pairs, the remainder of the description will focus on a single pad. It is possible to use two identical pads according to this disclosure, or at least one pad according to this disclosure, in a braking system comprising two or more pads.
[0018] The conduit may have a cross-section with a first diameter over a majority of its length, that is, more than 50% of its length has a constant diameter, preferably more than 80% of its length. The reader will understand that if the cross-section of the conduit is not circular, the conduit may have a "first dimension" which will also be critical for the passage (or not) of mud or pebbles. For example, if the cross-section is rectangular, the "first dimension" is the distance between the two longest sides of the rectangle. If it is a conduit with an elliptical cross-section, the first dimension will be the length of the minor axis of the cross-section. Liptic of the duct. According to other examples, the duct 41 may be polygonal or oblong in shape. Generally, depending on the shape of the cross-section of the duct 41, the "first diameter" may correspond to the inscribed circle, the equivalent cross-section, or the equivalent aerodynamic diameter of the duct 41.
[0019] Thus, the present disclosure will use the expression "first diameter" by abuse of language even when the conduit is not of circular cross-section.
[0020] The features described in the following paragraphs may optionally be implemented independently of each other or in combination with each other:
[0021] In some examples, the limit value is less than or equal to 70% of the first diameter. Thus, (at least) all bodies with dimensions greater than 70% of the diameter of the major part of the conduit are blocked.
[0022] In examples, the limit value is less than or equal to 32%, preferably less than or equal to 16% of the first diameter.
[0023] In examples, the first diameter is between 1 mm and 6 mm, the first diameter preferably being about 4 mm.
[0024] In some examples, the locking device is fixed to the lining or is an integral part formed with the lining or with the sole.
[0025] In examples, the blocking device includes an obstruction element disposed opposite the mouth and at a distance from it equal to the limit value.
[0026] In some examples, the obstruction element is formed from the material of the sole; preferably, the obstruction element is a U-shaped extension of the sole. Such a shape of obstruction element allows, among other things, the accumulation of mud at the mouth, which, once dry, can prevent or hinder suction.
[0027] In some examples, the blocking device includes a grid arranged around said mouth.
[0028] In some examples, the grid may have a dome shape. This shape has the advantage of minimally obstructing air intake and thus providing a satisfactory airflow in the groove. Alternatively, the grid may also be flat, or any other shape that covers the opening.
[0029] In some examples, the grid is integral with an insert through which a channel passes and which is inserted into the conduit. The channel's function is to ensure the fluidic connection between the conduit, or directly the groove, and the exterior of the seal. This insert solution allows the locking means described in this disclosure to be adapted to an existing plate that does not have a locking means in its original manufacture.
[0030] In examples, said mouth opens through an external surface of the plate, the grid being attached to said outer surface covering said mouth, preferably the grid is welded to said outer surface.
[0031] Said outer surface may be a surface of the sole or the lining, or it may extend over both the lining and the sole of the pad. Said outer surface may be a surface of the sole located opposite the mounting surface receiving the lining. The conduit may then pass through both the lining and the sole. In some examples, said outer surface may be a surface on one side, for example lateral or radial (internal or external), of the lining and / or the sole.
[0032] In some examples, the mouthpiece has a second diameter that is at least 10% smaller than the first diameter of the conduit, the mouthpiece forming all or part of the blocking device. In accordance with the definition of the first diameter mentioned above, the second diameter can, by extension, refer to a critical dimension of a non-circular section of the mouthpiece.
[0033] In some examples, the conduit comprises, in addition to the main portion defining the first diameter, a smaller, preferably conical, cross-section extending from the main portion to the opening. Such a conduit with a first and second diameter can be obtained by drilling with a conical drill bit, the drill bit's stroke stopping before its head emerges completely from the material. In some examples, such a second diameter can be provided on an insert, which can be drilled with a channel and inserted into the conduit. This solution allows the application of the locking means solution to an existing insert.
[0034] According to another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a brake particle collection nozzle comprising: a collection groove configured to be positioned opposite a brake rotor; a conduit, fluidly connected to the collection groove and comprising an opening, the conduit having a first diameter over a major part of its extent; and a suction hole configured to be connected to a vacuum source, said nozzle comprising a blocking device configured to prevent a body of a dimension greater than a limit value from entering the conduit via the opening, the limit value being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter.
[0035] According to examples, the limit value is less than or equal to 70% of the first diameter.
[0036] According to examples, the limit value is less than or equal to 32%, preferably less than or equal to 16% of the first diameter.
[0037] According to examples, the first diameter is between 1 mm and 6 mm, the first diameter preferably being about 4 mm.
[0038] According to examples, the blocking device comprises an obstruction element disposed opposite the mouthpiece and at a distance from it equal to the value limit.
[0039] According to examples, the blocking device includes a grid arranged around said mouth.
[0040] According to examples, the grid is integral with an insert through which a channel passes and which is brought into the conduit.
[0041] According to examples, the mouthpiece has a second diameter that is smaller, in particular by at least 10%, than the first diameter of the conduit, the mouthpiece forming all or part of the blocking device.
[0042] According to examples, the conduit comprises, in addition to the major part defining the first diameter, a portion of reduced section preferably conical, extending from the major part to the mouth.
[0043] According to another aspect, the present disclosure relates to a braking system comprising a rotor and: a pair of pads as described above; and / or one or more particle collection nozzles as described above, the braking system further comprising a vacuum source fluidly connected to the suction hole of a groove in each pad and / or each collection nozzle.
[0044] The invention also offers other technical advantages. In particular, the proposed solution is easy to implement, potentially on existing brake pads or braking systems; it is economical and its shape and volume are adapted to the highly constrained environment of a braking system. Furthermore, limiting the introduction of large foreign objects into the pneumatic circuit helps to prevent potential impacts on the filter within the pneumatic circuit, consequently reducing the mechanical stress on the filter: a less robust filter, or one made of a more flexible or less expensive material, can be chosen. Brief description of the drawings
[0045] Other features, details and advantages will become apparent upon reading the detailed description below, and upon analysis of the accompanying drawings, on which:
[0046] [Fig-1] shows a schematic representation of a disc brake.
[0047] [Fig.2] shows a schematic representation of two examples of brake pads known from the prior art, each comprising a collection groove and a conduit whose mouth is in the form of a slot or an orifice.
[0048] [Fig.3] shows a cross-sectional view of an example of a brake pad on which the groove, the conduit, the suction hole and the opening of said groove on the friction surface can be seen.
[0049] [Fig.4] shows an example of a blocking device comprising a U-shaped obstruction element.
[0050] [Fig. 5] shows an example of a blocking device comprising an element L-shaped obstruction.
[0051] [Fig.6] shows an example of a blocking device comprising an integral grid of an insert.
[0052] [Fig.7] shows an example of a blocking device comprising an added grid.
[0053] [Fig.8] shows an example of a blocking device comprising a portion of reduced section at one end of the conduit.
[0054] [Fig.9] shows an example of a variant in which the groove is formed on a nozzle, separate from the friction surface, comprising a mouthpiece on which it is possible to apply a blocking device according to this disclosure.
[0055] [Fig. 10] shows another example of the variant of [Fig.9], in which the groove has several mouths.
[0056] [Fig. 11] shows a cross-sectional view of an example similar to [Fig. 10], comprising a locking device at each of the mouths. Description of the implementation methods
[0057] The drawings and description below contain, essentially, elements of a definite nature. They may therefore not only serve to better understand this disclosure, but also contribute to its definition, if necessary.
[0058] In the various figures, the same reference numerals designate identical or similar elements. For the sake of brevity, only the elements that are useful for understanding the described embodiment are shown in the figures and are described in detail below.
[0059] In the following description, when reference is made to absolute position qualifiers, such as "front," "rear," "top," "bottom," "left," "right," etc., or relative position qualifiers, such as "above," "below," "upper," "lower," etc., or to orientation qualifiers, such as "horizontal," "vertical," etc., reference is made, unless otherwise specified, to the usual designations of a braking system in its normal operating position. The terms "axial" and "radial" are understood, in particular, unless otherwise stated, to refer to the axis of rotation of the braked rotor. Furthermore, the term "approximately" is to be interpreted as indicating that the result obtained is as precise as the known method for measuring it.
[0060] Figures 1 to 3 illustrate an example of a prior art braking system. This is an example to which the proposed solution can be applied by replacing at least one of the brake pads with one of the pads shown in Figures 4 to 8. Unless otherwise stated, the characteristics of the pads in Figures 1 to 3, which remain unchanged, can be applied to the pad according to this diagram. popularization.
[0061] More specifically, [Fig. 1] shows an example of a braking system 10 known from the prior art, comprising a rotor 11, in this example a brake disc, surmounted by a caliper 12 equipped with two brake pads 1 partially visible here, positioned on either side of the annular faces of the disc. The rotor 11 rotates about an axis of rotation A.
[0062] This example of a braking system 10 constitutes an example of an application of the proposed solution, but is not limiting. Indeed, it is possible to apply the solution to any braking system using the friction action of brake pads, such as, for example, a drum brake. Moreover, since this type of braking system illustrated as an example is common in the automotive field, it is also possible to equip braking systems in other fields, for example, other types of road or rail vehicles, or in particular in the field of industrial rotating machinery, or even stationary structures such as wind turbines.
[0063] [Fig.2] shows two examples of brake pads 1 with a lining 2 fixed on a sole 3. The pads 1 each comprise a lining 2, suitable for contacting a rotor 11. The linings 2 comprise in particular a friction surface 21, at least partially contained in a plane perpendicular to the axis of rotation A of the rotor 11 when mounted on a braking system of the type as illustrated in [Fig.1].
[0064] The lining 2 can be fixed to a base 3, these together forming a brake pad 1. The base 3 can be generally plate-shaped, for example metallic. According to examples, the base 3 can be larger than the lining 2, so as to extend beyond the sides (23, 24, 25, 25) of the lining 2.
[0065] Optionally, the sole 3 can serve as an interface between the pad 1 and other elements of the braking system 10, for example, sensors, or mounting elements for a caliper 12 or a linear drive mechanism. While the lining 2 is designed to contact the rotor to be braked, the sole 3 does not contact the rotor during braking. The lining 2 can typically be attached to the sole 3 by a mounting surface located opposite the friction surface 21.
[0066] During braking, the friction surfaces 21 of the pads 1 are pressed against the rotor 11. This contact generates friction forces, applied in a direction substantially tangent to the rotation of the rotor 11, schematically represented by arrows in [Fig. 2], which cause progressive wear of the linings. As explained previously, particles from the friction material of the These particles are generated during the collection of the linings, and are generally polluting and toxic. These particles are at least partially collected by collection grooves 4 formed in the lining(s) 2.
[0067] The groove 4 typically includes a conduit 41 terminating in an opening 42, particularly visible in [Fig. 2]. The groove 4 also includes a suction hole 5 (visible in [Fig. 3]). The conduit 41 allows air to enter through its opening 42, which is then drawn in through the suction hole 5.
[0068] The groove 4 also opens onto the friction surface 21 via an opening 45 separate from the inlet 42 and the suction hole 5. This opening 45 is configured to be blocked by the annular surface of the rotor 11, which comes into contact with the friction surface 21, particularly during braking. An airflow is then created by the vacuum source, which draws air through the suction hole 5. This air has no other option but to enter the groove 4 through the conduit 41, the opening 45 remaining blocked by the rotor. A vacuum is then formed at the portion of the rotor opposite said opening 45. It is notably through this opening 45 that the brake particles enter the groove 4 and are collected. This opening 45 can be arranged along at least part of the length of the groove, which can ultimately form a trench in the lining 2.The groove can be arranged so that when contact is made with the rotor on the friction surface 21, the annular surface of the rotor closes said opening of the groove 4.
[0069] The two examples in [Fig.2] differ from each other with regard to the geometry of the conduit 41 and its mouth 42, one (in the upper part of the figure) being made in the form of a slot open on the friction surface 21, which has the disadvantage of narrowing with wear of the lining, and the other example (at the bottom of the figure) proposes an improvement of the first example with a mouth 42 in the form of an orifice not open on the friction face 21 thus forming a conduit made in the lining 2.
[0070] An example of a groove 4, opening 45, mouth 42, conduit 41, and suction hole 5 is particularly visible in [Fig. 3]. In this example, the mouth 42 is provided on one lateral side of the lining 2, the suction hole 5 being provided through the mounting surface of the lining 2 on the base 3, and opening onto the side of the base 3 opposite the lining 2. The mouth 42 and the suction hole 5 are fluidly connected by the groove 4, and in this example are each located at one end of the groove 4.
[0071] Figure 4 schematically represents an example of the present disclosure.
[0072] The conduit 41 and, here, the mouthpiece 42 have the same diameter, referred to as the "first diameter DI". In this example, the conduit and the mouthpiece are circular, but it It is possible to consider that their cross-sections could be of any shape, for example polygonal, elliptical, or oblong, and / or different from one another. The duct 41 shown here has a cross-section of constant dimensions along its entire length. Other examples allow for a duct 41 whose cross-section varies in size or shape. The duct 41 extends in a straight line here, but other examples could include a duct with curved sections or changes in direction. It is nevertheless advantageous for the duct to have a constant cross-section over at least a major portion of its length and to extend in a predominantly straight line. This helps to avoid pressure losses and disturbances in the airflow.
[0073] The conduit 41 may open through a surface of the sole 3, or through a side of the lining 2 distinct from the friction surface 21, or at the joint between the sole 3 and the lining 2. A side of the lining distinct from the friction surface 21 may, for example, be a lateral side 25, 26, or a radially inner side 23, or radially outer side 24 of the lining 2.
[0074] In this example, the conduit 41 passes through the trim 2 in which the groove 4 is formed, and then through the base 3 to which the trim is fixed. The trim 2 is fixed to the base on a fixing surface, and the opening 42 of the conduit 41 is provided on an outer surface 43 of the base 3, the outer surface 43 being here on a side of the base opposite the fixing surface.
[0075] In some examples, the fitting 2 may have several inlets 41 and optionally several suction holes 5. In some examples, a groove 4 may have one or more inlets 41 and / or one or more suction holes 5. In some examples, the conduit 41 and the suction hole 5 may each be provided in positions distinct from the ends of the groove 4. In addition, the fitting 2 may have one or more collection grooves 4. Furthermore, a plate 1 may also have one or more fittings 2. Typically, the groove 4 extends from the conduit 41 to the suction hole 5, each positioned at one end of the groove 4.But it is possible to consider that the suction hole 5 is located, for example, in the center of the groove 4, and that two conduits 41 are provided at two ends of the groove 4, or any other configuration which ultimately allows an airflow through the groove 4, from at least one conduit 41 to at least one suction hole 5.
[0076] In some examples, the groove 4 extends in a straight line in a single direction, which is substantially perpendicular to the direction of the friction forces (as represented [Fig. 2] by arrows). Indeed, this configuration makes it possible to cover a maximum of the surfaces involved in friction and thus efficiently collect the particles emitted during friction. According to other examples, the groove 4 can The groove may also have non-straight sections and / or sections not oriented perpendicular to the friction forces. For example, the groove may form angles, curves, changes in direction, and possibly have more than two ends, including several branches extending in different directions. For example, the groove may have several straight sections connected by angles.
[0077] In cases with multiple grooves 4, each groove may have its own opening 45 on the friction surface 21, each performing a particle-collecting action. This opening 45 allows brake particles to enter the groove 4 and be collected by the airflow. The particles are then carried by the action of the vacuum source downstream of the braking system 10, for example into a processing unit such as a filter.
[0078] The suction hole 5 can open onto the sole 3 of the pad 1. For example, the suction hole 5 can form a channel opening from the fixing surface of the lining 2 and passing through the sole 3. The suction hole can be fluidly connected, directly or indirectly, to a source of vacuum.
[0079] The vacuum source can be a suction device, for example, comprising a fan or a turbine. The suction hole 5 can be connected to the vacuum source directly, for example by a sealed fluid connection 51, such as a pipe or tube. The suction hole 5 of the groove 4 can be connected to the vacuum source indirectly, for example by an element other than a simple fluid connection, such as a filter interposed between the suction hole 5 of the groove 4 and the vacuum source. Alternatively, the suction hole 5 of a first groove 4 can be fluidically connected to a conduit 41 of a second groove 4, of the same brake pad or of a different brake pad.
[0080] Plate 1 according to this disclosure includes a blocking device 6, examples of which are shown in Figures 4 to 8. The blocking device 6 is configured to prevent a body 8 with a dimension greater than a limit value Dm from entering, even partially, the conduit 41 via the opening 42, the limit value Dm being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter. Thus, the body 8, even if it has a dimension smaller than the first diameter of the conduit, cannot enter the conduit 41 through the opening 42 if it has a dimension larger than the value Dm. It is therefore possible to protect the particle collection system and maintain its efficiency at a satisfactory level without having to modify the geometry of the conduit 41, which is generally dimensioned to allow a sufficient level of vacuum in the groove 4.Indeed, using a smaller duct, for example a circular duct with a diameter of Dm, would reduce suction efficiency and impair the particle collection operation.
[0081] The limit value Dm is less than the first diameter DI of the conduit 41. In some examples, the value Dm is less than or equal to 70% of the first diameter of the conduit 41. In other examples, the value Dm is less than or equal to 32% of the first diameter, or even less than or equal to 16% of the first diameter of the conduit 41. The minimum internal dimension of the conduit can be between 1 mm and 6 mm, preferably about 4 mm.
[0082] According to the example shown in [Fig.4], the blocking device 6 includes an obstruction element 61 arranged opposite the mouth 42 and at a distance from it equal to the limit value Dm. The obstruction element 61 notably has an obstruction surface 46 arranged to face the outer surface 43. Since the obstruction surface 46 is a distance Dm from the outer surface 43, any object with dimensions greater than or equal to Dm will be blocked before reaching the opening 42. The obstruction surface 46 may be substantially parallel to the outer surface 43. The obstruction element 61 is arranged to extend over the entire air inlet area defined by the opening 42. Thus, if the obstruction element 61 extends from one side of the opening 42, it extends until it at least reaches, or even exceeds, the opposite side of the opening 42.The obstruction element 61 extends over a length at least equal to the first diameter of the conduit 4L. The obstruction element 61 extends with a width L at least equal to the first diameter of the conduit 4L. In a variant not illustrated in [Fig.4], the obstruction element 61 only partially covers the mouth 42, a partial cover being sufficient to prevent the introduction of an unwanted object 8 into the conduit 4L.
[0083] The obstruction element 61 can be formed from the same material as the sole 3, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. In the example in [Fig. 4], the obstruction element 61 is a U-shaped extension of the sole 3. This shape is obtained, for example, by folding a protrusion formed from the same material as the sole. In the example in [Fig. 5], the obstruction element 61 is L-shaped. Generally, regardless of the shape of the obstruction element 61, the obstruction element 61 includes a portion directly opposite the opening 42.
[0084] The obstruction element 61 has the advantage of allowing air to pass through a gap that extends over a relatively long length compared to its width, which is equal to the value Dm. Indeed, a "strip"-shaped gap of width Dm is formed between the outer surface 43 and the obstruction surface 46, over a major part of the periphery of the mouthpiece 42. This allows suction to be maintained despite the presence of a body 8 wedged between the obstruction surface 46 and the outer surface 43, as this body only blocks a minor part of the total area of the gap.
[0085] In [Fig. 5], the conduit 41 passes through the trim 2 and opens onto a surface of the packing which can be an internal or external radial surface, or an upstream or downstream lateral surface.
[0086] In [Fig. 6], another example of a blocking device is shown, comprising a grid 62 arranged around the mouth 42. The grid 62 has perforated areas 64, preferably distributed regularly over its surface. The grid 62 may, in particular, have a dome shape or a hemisphere shape, as shown in the example. This maximizes the airflow. Other shapes are possible. The perforated areas 64 may all have the same shape and size, or may have different sizes and shapes, as is the case in the examples shown in Figures 6 and 7.
[0087] The openwork areas 64, regardless of their shape and the shape of the grid, have a minimum dimension equal to the value Dm. In this way, any object larger than the value Dm is blocked by the grid 62, prevented from reaching the opening 62 due to the size of the openwork areas 64.
[0088] In the example shown in [Fig. 6], the grid 62 is integral with an insert 63, here inserted into a bore 66 made to widen the duct 4L. Said insert 63 is traversed by a channel 65, this channel having a cross-section identical to that of the first diameter of the duct 41, so as not to alter the suction performance of the duct 4L. In other words, the channel 65 extends in continuity with the duct 4L. Said channel 65 may have a constant cross-section over at least a major part of its length. The channel 65 can be obtained by drilling in the insert 63, or by any other means known to those skilled in the art. In this example, the opening 42 does not open onto an external surface 43 of the insert, but opens onto the bottom of the bore 66, thus forming a shoulder.The insert 63 is inserted until it reaches the shoulder at the bottom of the bore 66, at the level of the mouth 42 of the conduit 41, which is then fluidly connected to the channel 65. The assembly between the insert 63 and the bore 66 can typically be achieved by shrink fitting, or any other means known to those skilled in the art. In some examples, the insert is a useful molding insert during the sintering of the lining 2 onto the sole 3.
[0089] The grid 62 can be attached to the insert 63 at the end opposite to the end that abuts the bottom of the bore 66. The grid 62 can then be welded to the insert 63, or fixed by any other means known to those skilled in the art. The grid 62 can also be machined from the same material as the insert, the openwork areas 64 being obtained, for example, by suitable machining operations in the material of the insert 63.
[0090] In other examples, when the blocking device 6 does not include an insert 63, the grid 62 can be attached directly to the outer surface 43 through which the conduit 4L opens. The grid is then attached over said opening 42, onto the outer surface 43 (or onto any other surface of the lining if the (conduit opens into it). For example, as shown in [Fig. 7], the grid is attached directly to the outer surface 43 of the base. In some examples, the grid 62 is welded to said outer surface 43, or fixed by any means known to those skilled in the art. The grid 62 may also be formed from the base 3, or another part of the plate 1.
[0091] In other examples, the blocking device 6 may include, as an alternative or in addition to a grid 62, a plate or a plug pierced with one or more through orifice(s) acting as openwork areas 64.
[0092] In the example shown in [Fig. 8], the mouthpiece 42 has a second diameter smaller than the first diameter of the conduit 41. In this case, the mouthpiece 42 itself, by its geometry, forms the blocking device 6. For example, the second diameter may be at least 10% smaller than the first diameter. In this case, the body 8, larger than the value Dm, will be blocked by the reduced mouthpiece 42 and will not reach the conduit 41. This example can be combined with another example of a blocking means, for example, one that may also include a grid 62 around the reduced mouthpiece 42 and / or an obstruction element 61 opposite the reduced mouthpiece.
[0093] The conduit 41 comprises, in addition to the main portion 41.1 of the first diameter, a reduced cross-section portion 44 extending from the main portion 41.1 to the opening 42, which then has a second diameter smaller than the first diameter. This reduced portion 44 may be conical, its diameter decreasing linearly from the main portion 41.1 of the conduit 41 to the opening 42. It is also possible to provide a reduced portion 44 whose diameter decreases to form a curve, for example, an arc of a circle. Depending on its shape, the reduced portion 44 may be obtained, for example, by drilling with a conical drill bit or by machining with a hemispherical end mill. The reduced portion 44 can be configured so that its diameter decreases from the major part 41.1 of the conduit 41 to the mouth 42, without presenting any portion of constant diameter.Indeed, the presence of a constant diameter step could constitute an area in which a body, slightly smaller than the size Dm of the mouthpiece 42, could get stuck and obstruct the reduced portion 44.
[0094] According to one embodiment, the collection groove 4, which is fluidly connected to the vacuum source, may be located at a distance from the friction linings 2. Indeed, the groove may also be separate from the linings, or even separate from the pads. In other examples, the groove may be integral with the pad but separate from the friction surface 21.
[0095] According to an example illustrated in [Fig. 9] and [Fig. 10], which may be an alternative or a complement to the plate described so far, the groove 4 may be formed on a The suction nozzle 100 is positioned at a distance from the friction surface 21. The example shown has only one groove, but it is possible to have several grooves on a single nozzle. Similarly, it is possible to use several suction nozzles for the same rotor, in particular two nozzles facing each other, on one side and then the other of the brake rotor. The nozzle(s) can be fixed to the yoke or the caliper.
[0096] The collection groove 4 of the nozzle 100 has an opening 45 configured to be positioned opposite the annular surface of the rotor 10. The annular surface can typically be the one that comes into contact with the friction lining of the brake pads during braking. Thus, the opening 45 of the groove 4 of the nozzle 100 can perform the operation of capturing brake particles.
[0097] Similar to the examples described above in which the groove 4 is provided in the friction surface 21 of the lining 2, the collection groove 4 of the nozzle 100 is in fluid communication with: a conduit 41 separate from the opening 45 and comprising a mouth 42, the conduit 41 having a first diameter DI over a major part 41.1 of its extent; and with a suction hole 5 separate from the opening 45 and configured to be connected to a vacuum source.
[0098] Thus, the nozzle is configured so that an airflow is created from the mouth 42, through the conduit 41 and the groove 4, an airflow which draws the particles through the opening 45, towards a suction hole 5 connected to the source of vacuum by a fluidic link 51.
[0099] It is possible, according to examples such as the groove formed in the friction surface, for the groove to have several suction holes 5, and / or several inlets 42. This is the case in the example of [Fig. 10], which represents a pair of nozzles 100, each arranged opposite an annular surface on one side and the other of a disk (not shown), each groove having two inlets 42 and a suction hole 5 connected by a fluidic link 51 to a vacuum source. In this example, the suction hole 5 is located approximately in the middle of the nozzle, while the two inlets 42 (and therefore the two conduits 41) are arranged at two opposite ends of the nozzle.
[0100] The collection nozzle 100 further includes a blocking device 6 configured to prevent a body 8 with a dimension greater than a limit value Dm from entering the conduit 41 via the mouth 42 of the nozzle 100, the limit value Dm being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter DI. The blocking device 6 may conform to the examples described above and illustrated in Figures 4 to 8. The same technical benefits are obtained for the nozzle as for the plate described above, depending on whether one or the other of the blocking devices 6 illustrated in Figures 4 to 8 is adopted.
[0101] Although these different examples have been described separately, it is possible under the present disclosure to combine them. In particular, although not shown, it is possible to consider examples in which the blocking device 6 comprises both an obstruction element 61 and / or a grid 62 and / or a reduced portion 44.
Claims
Demands
1. Brake pad (1) comprising a sole (3) and a lining (2) supported on the sole (3), the lining (2) comprising a friction surface (21) adapted to come into contact with a rotor (11) and a brake particle collection groove (4) open on the friction surface (21), said collection groove (4) being in fluid communication with: • a conduit (41) opening out of the friction surface into an opening (42), the conduit (41) having a first diameter (Dl) over a major part (41.1) of its extent; and • a suction hole (5) suitable for connection to a pressure source, said plate (1) comprising a blocking device (6) configured to prevent a body (8) of a dimension greater than a limit value (Dm) from entering the conduit (41) via the mouth (42), the limit value (Dm) being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter (Dl).
2. Plate (1) according to claim 1, wherein the limit value is less than or equal to 70% of the first diameter.
3. Plate (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the limit value is less than or equal to 32%, preferably less than or equal to 16% of the first diameter.
4. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first diameter is between 1 mm and 6 mm, the first diameter preferably being about 4 mm.
5. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the locking device (6) is fixed to the lining (2) or is an integral part formed with the lining (2) or with the sole (3).
6. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the blocking device (6) comprises an obstruction element (61) disposed opposite the mouth (42) and at a distance from it equal to the limit value (Dm).
7. Plate (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the obstruction element (61) is formed from the material with the sole (3), preferably the obstruction element (61) is a U-shaped extension of the sole (3).
8. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the locking device (6) comprises a grid (62) arranged around said mouth (42).
9. Plate (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the grid (62) is integral with an insert (63) through which a channel (65) passes and which is brought into the conduit (41).
10. Plate (1) according to claim 8, in which said mouth (42) opens through an outer surface (43) of the plate (1), the grid (62) being attached to said outer surface (43) covering said mouth (42), preferably the grid (62) is welded to said outer surface (43).
11. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the mouth (42) has a second diameter that is in particular at least 10% smaller than the first diameter of the conduit (41), the mouth (42) forming all or part of the blocking device.
12. Plate (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the conduit (41) comprises, in addition to the major part (41.1) defining the first diameter (Dl), a portion of reduced cross-section (44) preferably conical, extending from the major part (41.1) to the mouth (42).
13. Brake particle collection nozzle (100) comprising: • a collection groove (4) configured to be positioned opposite a brake rotor (10); • a conduit (41), fluidly connected to the collection groove (4) and comprising an opening (42), the conduit (41) having a first diameter (Dl) over a major part (41.1) of its extent; and • a suction hole (5) configured to be connected to a vacuum source, said nozzle (100) comprising a blocking device (6) configured to prevent a body (8) of a dimension greater than a limit value (Dm) from entering the conduit (41) via the opening (42), the limit value (Dm) being less than or equal to 90% of the first diameter (Dl).
14. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to claim 13, wherein the limit value (Dm) is less than or equal to 70% of the first diameter.
15. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the limit value is less than or equal to 32%, preferably less than or equal to 16% of the first diameter.
16. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the first diameter is between 1 mm and 6 mm, the first diameter preferably being about 4 mm.
17. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 16 wherein the blocking device (6) comprises an obstruction element (61) disposed opposite the mouthpiece (42) and at a distance from it equal to the limit value (Dm).
18. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 17, wherein the blocking device (6) comprises a grid (62) arranged around said mouthpiece (42).
19. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 18, wherein the grid (62) is integral with an insert (63) through which a channel (65) passes and which is brought into the conduit (41).
20. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 19, wherein the mouthpiece (42) has a second diameter that is in particular at least 10% smaller than the first diameter of the conduit (41), the mouthpiece (42) forming all or part of the blocking device.
21. Particle capture nozzle (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 20, wherein the conduit (41) comprises, in addition to the major part (41.1) defining the first diameter (Dl), a portion of reduced cross-section (44) preferably conical, extending from the major part (41.1) to the mouth (42).
22. Braking system (10) comprising a rotor (11) and: • a pair of pads (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12; • and / or one or more particle capture nozzles (100) according to any one of claims 13 to 21, the braking system (10) further comprising a vacuum source fluidly connected to the suction hole (5) of the grooves (4) of each pad (1) and / or each capture nozzle (100).