Method and device for monitoring the state of health of a brake system

Abstract

The present invention describes a method for monitoring the state of health of components that are part of vehicle brake systems, with the aim of providing information on component wear with greater precision and accuracy and, consequently, with the aim of promoting safety in the operation of the vehicle brake system. The invention specifically discloses a monitoring method comprising automatic and adaptive calibration for monitoring wear, taking into account variations in brake system components. The present invention pertains to the motor industry as well as to the fields of on-board electronics and sensors for brake systems.

Description

Descriptive Report of Invention Patent METHOD AND DEVICE FOR MONITORING HEALTH STATUS IN BRAKE SYSTEM Field of Invention

[0001] The present invention is in the fields of automotive, on-board electronics and sensing aimed at braking systems. Background of the Invention

[0002] Brake systems in vehicles are safety items and, as such, must receive proper maintenance, preserving the useful life of their components in order to mitigate the risk of vehicle accidents.

[0003] Among the components is the friction material, such as the brake lining or brake pad, which wears out naturally during braking in a vehicle.

[0004] Many vehicles use drum brakes in their braking systems, especially in heavy-duty vehicles and on the rear axle of many urban vehicles. Drum brake systems generally consist of a brake drum that rotates in tandem with the vehicle's wheel. When the brake is applied, an actuator moves the internal mechanisms, which move the drum's center outward, creating a force that opposes the rotation of the vehicle's axle.

[0005] In other words, the entire brake system is a set, and maintenance of both the friction material and the other components is essential for the efficient operation of the brake system.

[0006] An example of a drum brake system is shown in Figures 1 through 3. In these systems, when the driver applies the brake pedal, the brake chamber moves an adjuster (or brake ratchet) that rotates an S-cam shaft. This causes the S-cam to move two brake shoes, via inner pads, toward the brake drum. The shoes are made of a material friction, which are designed to generate a friction force opposing the rotational movement of the vehicle's axle.

[0007] In drum brake systems, this friction material is known as brake linings, while in disc brake systems, the friction material is called brake pads. As the driver applies the brakes, the friction material naturally wears, which is compensated for by the adjuster mechanism. This progressive wear can lead to brake system failures or malfunctions, putting the lives of drivers and everyone on the roads at risk. Therefore, over time, the friction materials need to be replaced.

[0008] To perform this maintenance, many brake manufacturers establish an average time or distance traveled. There are also many cases where a specialist performs a visual inspection of the friction material, but this is time-consuming and sometimes requires disassembling the entire system to check the health of the friction material.

[0009] To this end, some solutions have been developed to enable monitoring of the wear of friction materials in brake systems through an on-board electronic system.

[0010] For example, document US201 1241866 presents a device for monitoring brake systems using two parallel rotation sensors that operate in tandem using the Hall effect. This set of sensors reads the clearance generated between the adjuster mechanism and the S-cam shaft, as well as the entire braking stroke, correlating them with the total adjuster stroke. However, the monitoring presented in US201 1241866 lacks adjustment or calibration to address brake system variations, such as a change in friction material.

[0011] Document CN213393268U presents formulas considering geometric parameters, for example, the drum radius and the S-cam shaft radius to calculate the remaining thickness of the friction material, based on readings from angle sensors on the sides of the S-cam shaft. However, the solution in CN213393268U does not consider variations in geometric parameters that may occur over the life of the brake.

[0012] US patent 7114596B2 discloses a drum brake system that measures brake lining wear using a distance sensor. The sensor is mounted near one of the brake shoes and records the initial position of the lining when a new lining is installed. However, immediately after the lining is replaced, the brake system is still settling or settling to generate adequate braking force, providing less accurate wear data.

[0013] There are several factors that require readjustment of the brake system, but the technique lacks solutions that perform adaptive monitoring for brake systems, in order to provide more reliable friction material wear data, consequently, promoting safety in driving the vehicle.

[0014] Sometimes, replacing the friction material isn't enough for complete maintenance, requiring an overhaul of the other brake system components. For example, the friction material in contact with the brake drum or disc also wears these components. In drum brake systems, cracks, fissures, grooves, ovalization, and other defects occur in the brake drum, which impair the braking system's performance and reduce the lifespan of the brake lining.

[0015] A manual and / or visual inspection identifies such defects, indicating maintenance or replacement. Until drum replacement is necessary, the brake drum is reused through grinding, which increases its internal diameter, providing a better fit between the drum and brake lining, in addition to eliminating noise. After this grinding or machining of the drum, the linings must be thicker (first or second oversize) compatible with the new drum diameter. manufacturer's recommendation. In order to meet these dimensional requirements for reliable brake operation, drum replacement is sometimes necessary.

[0016] Furthermore, roller wear can also affect braking load distribution, as the rollers are responsible for transmitting the S-axis's motion to the brake shoes. When worn, the rollers are replaced with oversized models. Similarly, other failures can occur, such as S-axis play, a faulty brake adjuster and / or pneumatic system, return spring fatigue, and shoe warpage, all of which compromise the brake system's efficiency.

[0017] Therefore, the entire brake system requires maintenance to prevent overheating and premature wear of its components. Even after the necessary maintenance, the brake system may not perform properly. Even if the friction material is of an appropriate thickness, the other components must meet the manufacturer's specifications and be properly seated in the brake system.

[0018] Therefore, in general, it is recommended to carry out a process of seating or readjusting the brake system through a few braking operations after some maintenance of the brake system, generating the appropriate coefficient of friction between the friction material and the brake drum / disc.

[0019] Furthermore, friction materials are produced in various thicknesses for a given reference or model, and are selected based on the increase in drum / disc diameter resulting from wear and / or machining. For example, standard linings should not be used on re-machined drums, as there would be no contact between the drums and these linings without oversize, causing brake failure, mirroring, and / or noise.

[0020] In addition to these brake sizing issues, brake systems must be of the same quality across the different axles and sides of each axle of the vehicle. In cargo vehicle combinations, (CVC), the uniformity of the behavior of the braking systems is crucial for the balance of braking between axles and wheels of road implements and tractor vehicles, promoting greater brake performance and preventing sudden braking, the CVC jackknife effect, skidding and / or sudden braking.

[0021] In this sense, the two solutions described below present a monitoring of friction material wear, considering other data, in addition to those read by monitoring sensors.

[0022] Patent US10731720B2 discloses a process for determining wear, primarily on disc brake pads, based on pressure measurements. To initiate wear monitoring, the user can press a button on an interface on the vehicle's console. Alternatively, the process can be initiated after a certain number of miles, a certain time, or after the vehicle completes a certain number of charge cycles. However, the solution of US10731720B2 only observes the onset of pad wear, not providing adaptive monitoring of changes that occur in the pad and other brake system components throughout their useful life.

[0023] Patent US9156460B2 discloses a heavy vehicle brake monitoring system that is activated when the brake light is activated, for example. By detecting wear, the brake status on both sides of each axle of the vehicle is displayed. To this end, US9156460B2 describes a system calibration process in which operators take measurements and apply the brakes so that the system captures actuation readings. Brake actuation measurements are entered into a user interface, as well as certain limits, such as brake actuator travel. However, the calibration described in US9156460B2 is not automatic and should not be confused with the present invention.

[0024] Therefore, it is possible to note that none of the solutions mentioned address the teachings of the present invention. The documents presented aim to monitor wear, mainly of the wear of the friction material, being limited to carrying out an initial adjustment when there is some geometric variation in the system change, however, not being able to carry out an automatic adjustment during the useful life of the brake system.

[0025] Thus, from what can be inferred from the literature researched, no documents were found anticipating or suggesting the teachings of the present invention, so that the solution proposed here has novelty and inventive step compared to the state of the art. Summary of the Invention

[0026] Thus, the present invention addresses the problems of the prior art by providing automatic and adaptive calibration for monitoring the health status of brake system components, providing more accurate and reliable wear information for brake system operation, since wear determination takes into account variations in the brake system components. Thus, the present invention provides more accurate and precise wear information, aiming to promote safety in the operation of freight vehicles.

[0027] To this end, the invention considers an event and a condition to optimize monitoring. A sensor array reads data that is correlated with brake system data, determining wear data. When the condition occurs, calibration is initiated to adjust the wear data after the event. Thus, more accurate wear monitoring contributes to preventive maintenance and the durability of friction material and other brake system components, and consequently, contributes to brake system operational reliability.

[0028] Thus, in a first object, the present invention presents a method of monitoring the health status of at least one brake system component, in which the method comprises the steps of: determining a wear data; based on at least one brake system data; and automatic calibration of the wear data.

[0029] Another object of the invention is a device for monitoring the health status of at least one brake system component, in which the device comprises a sensor assembly that detects wear data, the sensor assembly being positioned in the brake system and communicating with a processing unit (17) that automatically calibrates said wear data.

[0030] It is also an object of the invention a process for calibrating wear data of at least one brake system component, in which the calibration process comprises the steps of: initialization after the occurrence of a condition; adjustment of brake system data; and completion with the adjusted wear data after the occurrence of an event.

[0031] Another object of the invention is a system for monitoring the health status of at least one brake system component, the monitoring system comprising a processing unit (17) that automatically calibrates wear data by adjusting brake system data.

[0032] The invention also includes a method for detecting modifications to brake system components, such as detecting the replacement of a brake system component. This method is implemented based on the concept defined herein.

[0033] These and other objects of the invention will be immediately appreciated by those skilled in the art and will be described in detail below. Brief Description of the Figures

[0034] In order to better define and clarify the content of this patent application, the following figures are presented:

[0035] Figures 1 to 3 show different views of a schematic of a conventional drum brake system.

[0036] Figure 4 illustrates a flowchart for the monitoring method of the invention.

[0037] Figure 5 shows a flowchart for determining brake data.

[0038] Figure 6 illustrates another flowchart for the monitoring method of the invention.

[0039] The set of figures 7a to 7h shows an embodiment of the monitoring device of the invention.

[0040] Figure 7a shows a view of an embodiment of the structure (9) fixed to the adjuster (4).

[0041] Figure 7b shows the structure (9) of figure 7a, suppressing the base (10), with emphasis on accommodation (11).

[0042] Figure 7c shows a front view of an embodiment of the housing (11).

[0043] Figure 7d shows a rear perspective view of the housing (11 ).

[0044] Figure 7e shows a perspective view of the housing (11), highlighting the head (12) fitted between the shaft (5) and the housing (11).

[0045] Figure 7f shows a perspective view of the housing (11), highlighting the wall (115) positioned inside the housing (11).

[0046] Figure 7g shows a longitudinal sectional view, showing the sensing module (14) positioned in the housing (11).

[0047] Figure 7h shows the sensing module (14) rotated relative to the position shown in figure 7g.

[0048] Figure 8 shows an example with the magnet (13) being rotated in relation to the sensing module (14).

[0049] Figure 9 shows a schematic of the magnet (13) together with the sensing module (14), with regard to the distance between them. Detailed Description of the Invention

[0050] An example of a conventional drum brake system is shown in Figures 1 to 3. In these systems, a brake drum (1) rotates in conjunction with the vehicle's wheel and, when the pedal is pressed by a driver, a brake chamber (2) moves a rod (3), which is attached to an adjuster (4). Said adjuster (4) is mechanically associated with a shaft (5) of the drum brake. At the opposite end of the shaft (5) is arranged an "S"-shaped cam (6) (often called an S-cam), where said S-cam (6) moves the brake shoes (7) towards the brake drum (1). For this, the brake shoes (7) are attached to pads that receive the movement of the S-cam (6) by means of rollers (16). Said brake shoes (7) are provided with a friction material (8), which comes into contact with the inside of the brake drum (1), generating a friction force in opposition to the rotational movement of the vehicle wheel.

[0051] As the lining (8) wears due to friction caused during the braking process, a gap between the friction material (8) and the drum (1) may appear. The automatic adjuster (4) corrects this gap between the lining (8) and the brake drum (1), maintaining a constant and uniform distance between them, i.e., adjusting the proximity of these components when the braking system returns to its initial position. This increases braking safety by increasing the lining (8) in the ideal position in relation to the brake drum (1) to restart the braking process when necessary.

[0052] It is worth highlighting that this brief introduction of the conventional schematization of a drum brake system should not restrict the inventive concept proposed in the present patent application, since the invention applies to other drum brake models and disc brake models as well, as it provides calibration of the wear information of the friction material (8), whether lining or pad.

[0053] As noted above, brake systems commonly They have numerous components, making disassembly difficult to check the component's condition, i.e., wear, service life, and / or other conditions that correspond to the component's operability. Furthermore, it is known in the art that brake systems generally do not seat immediately after installation in the vehicle. That is, the brake system components are not perfectly fitted after installation in the vehicle, causing re-seating between the components during vehicle use and brake system activation.

[0054] Monitoring friction material wear using a device eliminates the need to disassemble the brake system and / or perform manual and / or visual inspections on each vehicle's brake system. Furthermore, the present invention provides monitoring that adapts to brake system variations that occur during maintenance or replacement of one or more brake system components and / or during brake application; that is, the monitoring system of the invention takes into account variations that occur throughout the useful life of the brake system as a whole.

[0055] To this end, the present invention provides a method for monitoring the health status of components that are part of the brake system, the method comprising the steps of: determining wear data; and automatically calibrating the wear data. Furthermore, the present invention also provides a monitoring process, with automatic calibration implemented by the monitoring system, which has a processing unit.

[0056] For the purposes of the present invention, said component is the brake drum (1), brake chamber (2), rod (3), adjuster (4), axle (5), S-cam (6), brake shoes (7) and the lining (8) itself, pads or rollers (16). The components described do not restrict the scope of the invention, since it is applied to other drum brake models and disc brake models as well. Thus, the component is the brake disc, pad (8), etc.

[0057] The present invention provides wear data for the friction material (8), with the wear data being calibrated as defined below. Likewise, the present invention also provides wear data for other components, since the brake behavior may not be compatible with the already calibrated wear data for the friction material (8). In an example of a drum brake, even with the replacement of the lining (8), other components may be worn, so the present invention is capable of detecting wear of the brake system components by providing calibrated wear data. Thus, by monitoring the wear of the brake system as a whole, the invention promotes reliability in the operation of the brake system and, consequently, of the vehicle.

[0058] For this purpose, the brake system data is used to determine the component wear data. For the purposes of the present invention, the wear data of the friction material (8) is a real state of the friction material. Furthermore, the brake data is data relating to one or more components of the brake system, and the brake data is used to determine the wear data. Thus, calibrated data reflects the real state, whereas uncalibrated data may not accurately represent the component.

[0059] In one embodiment, the brake data is a movement data of the adjuster (4), shaft (5), rod (3), S-cam (6), or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the wear data of the friction material (8) is an average thickness of the friction material (8). From the wear data, the invention provides for the calculation of the service life of the friction material (8).

[0060] The determination of the friction material (8) wear data is based on a correlation between sensor data and a brake system specification. The correlations or determinations are simple relationships, so that the invention does not require high computational costs. In one embodiment, said relationship is an arithmetic calculation and / or a correspondence between tabulated values.

[0061] Along with the sensor data, the processing unit (17) obtains other data from the monitoring device, for example, battery percentage that powers the sensor assembly, magnetic field in the case of a magnetic sensor and / or signal strength of the wireless communication between the sensor assembly and the processing unit (17). Thus, the method of the invention centralizes the information to keep the monitoring operating.

[0062] To acquire sensor data, the monitoring device has a sensor assembly positioned in the brake system to detect brake movement resulting from brake application. The sensor assembly then reads the movement and generates sensor data corresponding to translation, rotation, or other action resulting from brake application. In other words, the invention is independent of the sensor type; for example, distance, angle, or pressure sensors can be used.

[0063] The sensor data is directly or indirectly related to brake data. In one embodiment, processing the sensor data provides the brake data. In another embodiment, the correlation between the sensor data and the system specification provides the brake data.

[0064] Furthermore, each brake system component has a set of specifications that influence the sensor data reading. Therefore, the brake data calculation considers these specifications, which are, for example: size, model, component material, etc. Thus, the brake system specification sets define parameters for determining brake data and / or wear data. These parameters are reference and / or compensation values ​​used in the calculations of brake data and friction material wear data.

[0065] In one embodiment, these parameters are detected during automatic calibration. In an alternative or redundant embodiment, these parameters are entered by an operator. Otherwise, for the example of drum brake systems, a database stores brake configurations listing brake drum (1), roller (16), and lining (8) specifications, which are related to said parameters.

[0066] For this purpose, said determinations of the brake data and, subsequently, of the wear of the friction material (8) are carried out by a processing unit (17) communicating with the sensor assembly. For the purposes of the present invention, the processing unit (17) is any electronic component capable of following a set of predefined instructions, reading the sensor data, processing this data and correlating the data. In one embodiment, the processing unit (17) is a microcontroller or a microprocessor. Additionally, the processing unit (17) is capable of connecting to the sensor assembly wirelessly or via wire.

[0067] As the brake system is actuated, the friction material (8) wears down. Therefore, the processing unit (17) informs the driver or fleet manager of the wear of the friction material (8) through an interface or a display on the vehicle's instrument panel. In one embodiment, the interface displays the remaining service life of the friction material (8). Additionally, the processing unit (17) indicates a replacement or preventive maintenance of the friction material (8), preventing degradation of the other components and speeding up the replacement and ordering of parts to maintain the efficient operation of the brake system. Furthermore, sometimes, replacing the friction material (8) is not sufficient, requiring the replacement of the drum (1) or brake disc, rollers (16), or another component of the brake system.

[0068] Consequently, one or more changes to brake system components result in changes to brake system specifications, including changes in the mechanical interactions between components, resulting in modifications to the parameters for calculating brake data and / or wear data. The sensor data needs to be corrected according to the actual brake system specifications, providing brake data that is more accurate in reflecting the brake's current behavior. To this end, the present invention provides automatic calibration of wear data. For the purposes of this invention, calibration is automatic because it does not require human intervention to inform maintenance or component replacement. With automatic calibration, device does not need to stop monitoring wear, maintaining the supply of wear data being adjusted after events occur.

[0069] Furthermore, the calibration includes a pre-stage activation of an alert system, based on the friction material wear data. The alert system recognizes that a possible replacement, maintenance, or modification to the brake system is imminent. In one embodiment, the alert system is activated when the wear data falls below a certain threshold value. Upon activating the alert system, the processing unit (17) notifies a repair station or fleet manager of upcoming maintenance for the friction material (8), informing them of the remaining service life of the friction material (8).

[0070] Wear data gradually changes with brake application. Thus, when there are variations in the brake system, a change in brake data is noticeable. This change in brake data indicates the occurrence of a condition in the brake system. For the purposes of the present invention, the condition is: an exchange, replacement, maintenance of the brake system component; a predefined situation for brake adjustment; or even an undesired or unexpected modification to the brake system. In one embodiment, the condition is the replacement of a friction material (8) and / or another brake system component, for example, brake drum (1) and / or roller (16) in the drum brake embodiment.

[0071] In one embodiment, brake data reaching a tolerance range is indicative of the condition's occurrence. In another embodiment, a sudden variation in brake data identifies the condition's occurrence. Based on this, the calibration of the invention acts by considering these conditions that occur in the brake system throughout the useful life of each of the system's components, since, in many cases, replacement or maintenance is not performed on all system components. In one embodiment, a condition is the replacement of the friction material (8), maintaining the drum (1) or disc. brake. In another embodiment, a condition is to change the friction material (8) together with a grinding of the drum (1) increasing its internal diameter and / or replacing the roller (16) with an oversized one.

[0072] On the other hand, immediately after a replacement or maintenance of the friction material (8) or another component of the system, there are still variations in the system that is settling. Thus, calibration begins after the occurrence of the condition. In the present invention, the reading of the sensor data is continuous or interrupted. In one embodiment, the sensor assembly maintains the reading until the occurrence of the condition. In another embodiment, the reading continues until the occurrence of the event, when there is an adjustment of the wear data.

[0073] For this purpose, the invention considers an event to be a change related to at least one component of the brake system and / or a combination of brake system components. Thus, for the purposes of the present invention, the event is the stabilization of the brake system after said condition, so that the calibration awaits the occurrence of the event to adjust the wear data. Although there are technical solutions for monitoring friction material (8) wear in brake systems, including initially considering input values ​​on the brake system components to calculate friction material wear, the electronic perception of the technique does not provide for the rearrangement or other variations of the brake system components as a pre-processing (preset) of the monitoring.Instead, the present invention bases the monitoring of the health status of brake system components on a presetup configuration, also considering said rearrangement to promote vehicle safety by providing more reliable and accurate information about its brake system.

[0074] Thus, this configuration provides for the rearrangement or seating of the brake system from fittings and couplings inherent to the system's actuation, which occur after the aforementioned condition throughout the brake's useful life.

[0075] In one embodiment, calibration is performed between the start of the condition and the end of the event. In one embodiment, the calibration of the invention awaits the occurrence of at least one event, which is the readjustment of the brake system. After the event occurs, the calibration adjusts the parameters to determine the brake data and / or wear data. In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event is identified by a specific vehicle mileage, number of braking operations, time, speed, and / or a combination thereof. In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event is identified by a number of braking operations applied between one or more vehicle speed ranges. For the purposes of the present invention, the event occurs after the condition.

[0076] In this way, calibration maintains wear monitoring functionality, so that reading sensor data after an event occurs provides a new parameter, for example, an updated reference value. In one embodiment, updating the reference value results in the wear data being reset. This ensures that the monitoring system is calibrated, generating accurate wear data adjusted to the brake system's variations. Thus, calibration is completed after the event occurs with the adjusted wear data.

[0077] In one embodiment, this calibration is performed by software implemented by the processing unit (17). In a complementary or redundant embodiment, the calibration is performed by a remote server.

[0078] Furthermore, the device is mounted on a cargo transport vehicle, for example, a road implement or railway wagon, which has braking systems arranged on at least one axle of the vehicle. The braking systems contain sensor assemblies communicating with the processing unit (17) that implements the monitoring method as defined above.

[0079] Thus, the present invention provides vehicle stability by providing durability and reliability of its braking systems. To this end, The invention provides wear data for vehicle brake systems, aiming for a balanced distribution of braking force between axles and between wheels on the same axle. Thus, the present invention promotes vehicle driving safety, preventing jackknife effects, inefficient braking, and reducing the risk of vehicle accidents.

[0080] Using wear data, the invention enables brake system management by identifying specifications for multiple vehicle brake systems. In other words, based on wear data, the processing unit detects changes in the diameter of the drum, roller, or lining, for example.

[0081] Thus, the invention is based on a process for managing brake systems in freight transport vehicles, the management process comprising the steps of: determining wear data for the friction material of at least one of the vehicle's brake systems; and identifying a specification for the brake system, based on the friction material wear data.

[0082] Therefore, the process has a step to indicate maintenance on the brake system, based on the wear data of the friction material and / or the wear data of the brake system component.

[0083] For example, the recommendation recommends tarps suitable for the route, such as a mountain range. In one embodiment, the recommendation recommends the use of components with certain specifications according to the manufacturer's manual, standards, and / or current legislation.

[0084] The present invention can be applied to any braking system, regardless of the type of vehicle, including urban vehicles, passenger transport vehicles, cargo vehicles, road implements, railway wagons, etc.

[0085] The examples shown here are intended only to exemplify one of the numerous ways of carrying out the invention, without, however, limiting its scope. Example 1 - Wear monitoring method

[0086] This example presents a method for monitoring friction material wear in a brake system, the method comprising the steps of: reading sensor data through a sensor set after the occurrence of at least one event; and processing a correlation of the read data with the wear of the friction material.

[0087] In general, brake system wear is estimated by sensing the movement of the brake system components. In one embodiment of a drum brake system, the wear of this brake system is estimated by the movement of the adjuster (4) and / or the axle (5). In this context, the present invention, in one embodiment, provides a sensor assembly that is capable of reading the movement of brake system components, such as, for example, the movement generated between the adjuster (4) and the axle (5).

[0088] Thus, the example method performs a step of reading data from the brake system through the sensor assembly. In one embodiment, the data refers to a relative movement that occurs between adjuster (4) and shaft (5), being an angular variation. Said relative movement occurs because the shaft (5) rotates within the adjuster (4), seeking an advantageous position, in order to maintain an adequate clearance between the friction material (8) and the brake drum (1), whenever the friction material is worn by the braking process. This rotation is provided by the internal mechanism of the automatic adjuster (4) when it senses that the friction material (8) has been worn. In one embodiment, the relative angular movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) is proportional to the wear of the friction material (8).

[0089] With the data, the example method is capable of processing a correlation of the read data with the wear of the friction material. In one embodiment, a processing unit (17) performs said correlation of the read data with a motion data related to the wear of the friction material.

[0090] Additionally, the sensor assembly is positioned in the brake system to perceive a movement of the brake system, being a relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) in one embodiment. With this, the movement of the brake system perceived by the sensor assembly is converted into data, this data being readable by the processing unit (17).

[0091] Reading brake system movement data

[0092] For the purposes of the present invention, the present method provides a configuration for monitoring wear, predicting brake system readjustments resulting from fittings and couplings inherent to the system's actuation. To this end, in one embodiment, the method waits for the occurrence of at least one event, which is the brake system readjustment, to initiate monitoring. Thus, after the event occurs, the sensor assembly detects movements of the brake system, such as the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5), and the movements are converted into data.

[0093] Thus, in one embodiment, events are considered to determine monitoring adjustments. In another embodiment, the process performs a waiting step for the event to occur. In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event is indicated by the performance of fittings and couplings between the adjuster (4), shaft (5), S-cam (6), shoes (7), drum (1), and / or even initial wear of the friction material (8). Thus, these indications are identified through a mechanism, electronic sensor, computer vision, etc.

[0094] To achieve this, the process performs a step to identify the occurrence of the event. In one embodiment, the event is identified when the vehicle exceeds a certain mileage after replacing a brake system component. In another embodiment, the event is identified when the vehicle reaches a certain mileage or a certain time after replacing the friction material (8).

[0095] In an additional embodiment, the identification of the occurrence of the event refers to a deadline that, when reached, determines an operational status of the brake system, in which its components are accommodated, that is, the deadline reached identifies the occurrence of the readjustment of the brake system.

[0096] For example purposes, there is relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) and, consequently, wear of the friction material (8) from the rearrangement of the system, including the adjuster (4) and shaft (5). Thus, until the end of event (1), which is the rearrangement of the brake system, the components move, changing their arrangements in the brake system until the end of the rearrangement, which is also capable of being restarted throughout the useful life of the brake system.

[0097] Therefore, such mechanical movements of the components indicate that the brake system is being reassembled. In one embodiment, the event indication is entered by a user reporting a modification, maintenance, or replacement of linings (8), drum, adjuster (4), axle (5), among other components of the brake system.

[0098] In this way, the event determines a monitoring initialization setting. In one embodiment, the event determines a predefined parameter for the monitoring to consider the beginning of wear of the friction material (8). Thus, the present invention prevents the generation of false positives of wear of the friction material (8) when considering the occurrence of events, increasing the accuracy of the monitoring.

[0099] In an additional embodiment, the event identification is given by a distance traveled, time, user information, and / or a combination of these and other parameters suitable for monitoring to achieve a better estimate of wear.

[0100] That is, for purposes of the present invention, the event is a change relating to at least one brake system component and / or a combination of brake system components. In one embodiment, the event is a mechanical rearrangement between the components of the brake system.

[0101] Additionally, the process has an event identification step through an input module. In one embodiment, the input module is an odometer that communicates with the processing unit (17), reporting mileage traveled. In another embodiment, the input module is an interface, where the user configures modes to identify events, strengthening wear monitoring. In an additional embodiment, the input module connects to a vehicle telemetry system. In one embodiment, the input module stores the defined identification modes, verifying the occurrence of an event by the modes.

[0102] Furthermore, the processing unit (17) stores specifications of the brake system components: drum (1), linings (8), rollers, shaft (5), adjuster (4), etc. In one embodiment, said specifications are entered into the input module being a user interface.

[0103] From this, the invention's monitoring is configured to obtain correlations between the data read by the sensor set and the wear of the friction material, in a more precise and, consequently, safer way for the driver and / or fleet manager to schedule vehicle use and schedule brake system maintenance.

[0104] In one embodiment, whether with the identification of one or more events or just the occurrence of the event, the data reading step by the sensor assembly begins, in any case, after the event occurs. In this embodiment, the present invention allows for reduced sensor processing and storage of unused data. In another embodiment, the data is read even without the event being identified, enabling the formation of a data history since the indication of the event, for example, a brake system installation or maintenance.

[0105] Additionally, the sensor assembly is associated with a location in the brake system: drum (1), lining (8), roller, axle (5), adjuster (4), and / or a combination between them. Thus, in one embodiment, when the sensor assembly is changed and / or when the location or position of the sensor assembly in the brake system is changed, the processing unit (17) considers the changes and alterations of the sensor assembly to readjust the read data.

[0106] For this purpose, in one embodiment, the processing unit (17) stores the locations and specifications of the sensor assembly(ies) installed in the brake system. In an embodiment of the input module being an interface, the user registers sensor assemblies and indicates the respective positions of the sensor assemblies in each brake system of the vehicle through the interface. In this way, the processing unit (17) stores the specifications of the sensor assemblies being linked to the specifications of the brake system components. Thus, after the occurrence of the event, each sensor assembly is able to perform readings of the movements of the brake system to be correlated with the wear of the friction material (8). Thus, in case of replacement or change of position of the sensor assembly in the brake system, the data read is readjusted by the unit (17), considering the events that occurred.

[0107] In one embodiment, with the replacement of the sensor assembly, the new sensor assembly begins reading after the event occurs. In an embodiment in which the brake system is already refitted, that is, the event has already occurred, the new sensor assembly begins reading immediately after its installation in the brake system. To this end, in one embodiment, the processing unit (17) receives indications of the occurrence of the event, for example, when the vehicle reaches a certain mileage. In an embodiment in which the brake system is not yet refitted, the unit (17) considers the mileage previously reached when the brake system had the old sensor assembly, as well as considers the difference in reaching the certain mileage, allowing the new sensor assembly to begin reading the data after the event occurs.

[0108] Furthermore, in another embodiment, a sensor assembly previously installed in one location of the brake system is moved to another location of the same brake system or to another brake system of the vehicle, changing the position of the sensor assembly. When the position of the sensor assembly is changed, the sensor assembly in the new position waits for the event to occur before reading the data.

[0109] Processing of data correlations with friction material wear

[0110] After reading the data, the process performs a step of processing the correlations based on the events that occurred. In one embodiment, this step is executed by the processing unit (17) communicating with the vehicle's telemetry system, odometer, user interface, etc.

[0111] In one embodiment, the processing step performs a correction of the read data depending on the event that occurred. In one embodiment, in which the data is an angular variation proportional to the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5), the occurrence of event (100) is identified by a measurement of the angular variation, determining a minimum limit of the angular variation for the beginning of effective wear of the friction material (8). Thus, in one embodiment, the correction of the data corresponds to a zeroing of the angular variation, that is, the unit (17) processes an angular variation value equal to zero when the input module identified the occurrence of the event or when the event simply occurs. In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event is indicated by a minimum limit of angular variation together with a known date on installation or replacement of brake system components.In another embodiment, the event indication is given by a sudden variation in the relative angle between adjuster (4) and shaft (5), which indicates maintenance of the brake system. In this last embodiment, the processing stage waits for another event identification based on the mileage traveled to begin monitoring.

[0112] Furthermore, considering the specifications of the sensor set, the specifications of the brake system components and the location in the brake system where the sensor assembly is operating, the unit (17) readjusts the data read, regardless of whether the sensor assembly has been replaced or changed position in the same brake system or in another brake system of the vehicle. Thus, in one embodiment, after the occurrence of the brake system readjustment event indicated by exceeding a minimum value of angular variation, time, distance, etc., the data read by the sensor assembly is corrected, considering the specifications of the brake system and the specifications of the sensor assembly and its position in which it is operating in the brake system.

[0113] Alternatively, the unit (17) processes the data according to the event that occurred, without the need to apply a data correction. In the event that the event is identified by a mileage value, the unit begins reading and processing the data after the predicted mileage value is reached, eliminating the need for corrections or reducing the number of data corrections.

[0114] From this, the method of the present invention provides the data, with or without correction depending on the event that occurred, promoting safety for the operation of brake systems by providing correlations of the data with the wear of the friction material (8), in a more precise and reliable manner. Example 2 - Wear monitoring system

[0115] This example presents a system for monitoring friction material wear in a brake system, in which the monitoring system comprises a sensor assembly positioned in the brake system to read at least one piece of data from the brake system after the occurrence of at least one event, the data being correlated with the wear of the friction material.

[0116] In one embodiment, the monitoring system communicates with an interface, through which a user reports a modification, maintenance, replacement of linings (8), drum (1), among other components of the brake system. In an additional embodiment, the user reports specifications of the components of the brake system: drum (1), linings (8), rollers, shaft (5), adjuster (4), etc. In one embodiment, a user registers different types of sensors and their specifications. In one embodiment, the user indicates the position of each sensor assembly installed in each vehicle's brake system.

[0117] To this end, the invention's monitoring system has a means of storing the read data and at least one specification of the brake system and sensor assembly, forming a monitoring configuration. In one embodiment, the monitoring configuration defines ways of indicating events in order to parameterize the monitoring. In one embodiment, the monitoring configuration defines ways of indicating the event to initiate monitoring: a specific mileage, angle value, time since the last maintenance, among other factors. Thus, such indications are identified, in one embodiment, by means of an odometer.

[0118] In this way, the monitoring system of the invention processes the correlations of the data with the wear of the friction material (8), correcting the correlation if necessary according to the combination of the specifications of the components present in the brake system and the specifications of the sensor assembly. In one embodiment, the wear of the friction material (8) is also saved in the storage medium.

[0119] To this end, the monitoring system has a processing unit (17) that performs the correlations. In one embodiment, the processing unit (17) executes a self-recognition algorithm, defining event identification modes according to a specification of the vehicle's brake component / system and a specification of the sensor assembly installed in the brake system. With the known specifications, the processing unit (17) automatically determines adjustments and settings for wear monitoring after the events occur. In one embodiment, the monitoring adjustment corrects the data, considering the event that occurred.

[0120] Similarly, when the input module detects the occurrence of a specific event, which is related to a specific monitoring configuration, the configuration is linked to a specific brake component / system specification through the self-recognition algorithm. In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event is detected by an initial wear offset, the offset being a minimum angular variation threshold that differs between brake system specifications. Thus, by detecting the offset and executing the self-recognition algorithm, the monitoring system of the invention is capable of recognizing the brake system specifications.

[0121] Furthermore, the monitoring system can be installed in any brake system, including S-cam drum brakes, as a kit for monitoring, measuring, and identifying lining (8) wear, thus preventing accidents by obtaining wear with greater precision. In one embodiment, the monitoring system of the present invention is implemented in drum brakes during their manufacture. In another embodiment, said system is installed in previously manufactured drum brakes. Similarly to these embodiments, said system is implemented in disc brake systems.

[0122] This example of a monitoring system implements a process for monitoring friction material wear in a drum brake system comprising an adjuster (4) that moves an axle (5) of the brake drum (1), from a stage of actuating the drum brake system, wherein the monitoring process comprises the steps of: perceiving a movement of the brake system by means of a sensor assembly positioned in the brake system; acquiring movement data from the brake system by means of a processing unit (17) after the occurrence of at least one event, the processing unit (17) being communicative with the sensor assembly; and processing a correlation of the movement data from the brake system with the wear of the friction material by means of the processing unit (17).

[0123] In one embodiment, the brake system movement data corresponds to a relative movement data between adjuster (4) and shaft (5).

[0124] In one embodiment, the occurrence of the event determines the beginning of the motion perception stage by the sensor assembly. In another embodiment, the occurrence of the event determines the beginning of the receipt of data from the sensor assembly. In another embodiment, the occurrence of the event determines the beginning of the processing of the correlation of the data with the wear of the friction material (8). In one embodiment, the correlation processing performs a correction of the data depending on the event that occurred.

[0125] The wear monitoring device comprises an adjuster (4) that moves an axle (5) of the brake drum (1), the monitoring device comprising: a sensor assembly that perceives a movement of the brake system, the sensor assembly being positioned in the brake system; and a processing unit (17), communicating with the sensor assembly, that receives at least one movement data from the brake system and processes a correlation of the movement data from the brake system with the wear of the friction material.

[0126] Likewise, in one embodiment, the motion data of the brake system is a relative motion data between adjuster (4) and shaft (5).

[0127] Thus, the conversion of relative movement into data is performed by the sensor assembly that generates the relative movement data between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). In one embodiment, the sensor assembly generates the relative movement data between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) from an angular variation related to the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). In one embodiment, the data is generated from a linear variation related to the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). In this last embodiment, the linear movement is generated mechanically by the sensor assembly itself, converting the angular movement performed by the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5).

[0128] In one embodiment, said conversion is provided by the sensor assembly to sense the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). Additionally, said perception is a physical sensation obtained by mechanical, magnetic and / or electronic means.

[0129] In view of this, the sensor assembly is positioned on some of the components of the brake system - brake pedal, brake chamber (2), rod (3), adjuster (4), axle (5), etc. - so that the sensor assembly perceives a variation in movement of the component(s), such as, for example, relative movement between adjuster (4) and axle (5). In one embodiment, the sensor assembly comprises an electronic circuit or a sensor capable of detecting movement through kinematic displacements, magnetic changes, among other physical variations.

[0130] Thus, the sensor assembly perceives the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) and generates data on said relative movement. To do this, the sensor assembly waits for an event to occur to begin perceiving the movements, such as the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). Therefore, after the event occurs, the processing unit (17) communicates with the sensor assembly, receiving data on the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) to correlate it with the wear of the friction material.

[0131] In one embodiment, the means of storing the movement data related to the wear of the friction material assembles a history of operation of the brake system for the driver of the vehicle to check the health of the friction material (4).

[0132] In this way, as the brake is applied, the sensor assembly is able to monitor the relative movement between the adjuster (4) and shaft (5), predicting that these components of the brake system are mechanically re-arranged, that is, predicting that the event will occur.

[0133] This relative movement occurs due to the wear of the friction material (8) which, as previously presented, after the event occurred relating to the rearrangement between such components of the brake system, the adjuster (4) tends to correct the clearance existing between the friction material (8) and the brake drum (1). This arrangement of the monitoring device of the present invention, upon detecting the occurrence of the event and the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5), prevents the sensor assembly from capturing any interference caused by clearances between the mechanical components of the brake system, since the occurrence of the event together with the variation in position between the shaft (5) and adjuster (4) means that there is wear on the friction material (8).

[0134] In one embodiment, the communication between the processing unit (17) and the sensor assembly is a wireless communication, wherein the processing unit (17) is positioned on the vehicle chassis and the sensor assembly is positioned on the brake system. In another embodiment, the communication between the processing unit (17) and the sensor assembly is a wired communication.

[0135] In a further embodiment, the processing unit (17) is communicative with a device that makes friction material wear data available to a user. This data may be made available to the vehicle driver via a display onboard the vehicle or via a smartphone. This data may also be made available to a remote server.

[0136] Furthermore, the monitoring device is communicative with a remote station, wherein the remote station receives movement data related to the wear of the friction material. In one embodiment, the remote station manages fleets of vehicles, so that the present invention promotes the reliability of the vehicle fleet by monitoring the wear of the respective linings (8) of the vehicles.

[0137] In one embodiment, the vehicle equipped with the device of the invention is a commercial vehicle. In another embodiment, the vehicle is a road implement. In these embodiments, the relevance of brake wear information is even greater than in lighter vehicles, given that number of axles, load carried, vehicle inertia, so that the present invention provides greater accuracy for monitoring lining wear in drum brakes, for example.

[0138] In this way, the process of the invention provides a more accurate correlation with the continuous wear of the friction material (8). In one embodiment, said correlation is of the relative movement data between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) with a movement data related to the wear of the friction material after the occurrence of the event, benefiting from a correction of the data when necessary, depending on the event that occurred.

[0139] Based on this, wear data is made available to a user, so that he or she has access to the monitoring of the friction material (8). This data can be made available to a display on board the vehicle (e.g. on the on-board computer), to a user's smartphone, to a remote server or in a combination of these alternatives. Example 3 - Wear monitoring method

[0140] This example is implemented by a monitoring system that provides calibration of wear data and is applicable to monitoring devices, including those already in operation. Thus, the method contributes to the reliability of brake system data and, thus, promotes vehicle safety.

[0141] Calibration is initiated when there is maintenance or replacement of brake system components, so that the processing unit identifies variations outside an expected margin, detecting said maintenance or replacement of components.

[0142] After this, the brake system is still in the process of settling, so the calibration waits for the completion of the settling to adjust the wear data. Example 4 - Wear Monitoring Platform

[0143] This example deals with the monitoring system as an electronic platform for monitoring wear of components. Brake system, where this platform is accessible to users who can view friction material wear data for one or more vehicles, for example, in a fleet. Generally, this platform is accessed via a mobile app, and the wear data received is displayed graphically on the screen. Optionally, the app has direct communication with the vehicle's onboard sensors.

[0144] As described in the concept of the present invention, once the calibration process begins and the event occurs, the adjusted / calibrated data is displayed on the application's graphical screen. Optionally, a message indicating the calibration is complete is displayed to the user, informing them that the data is undergoing calibration. Additionally, the application also optionally includes a function that allows the user to report that a brake system component has been changed or replaced, which triggers the automatic calibration process. Example 5 - Automatic calibration of wear monitoring

[0145] The automatic calibration provided by the invention is applicable to any brake wear sensor, regardless of the drum or disc brake system model. In one embodiment, the sensor detects a variation in movement resulting from brake actuation. In one embodiment, the sensor data is an angle value. To determine the wear data, the sensor data is processed, obtaining brake data. Thus, the brake data is a movement of the: shaft (5), adjuster (4), rod (3), and / or a combination thereof. In another embodiment, the brake data is pressure data generated by the pneumatic system that actuates the brake chamber (2) or by the hydraulic system on the brake pedal.

[0146] In this example, the sensor assembly reads a relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5). As a result, the sensor embedded in the brake system perceives the movement, generating the sensor data. Subsequently, the processing unit (17) receives the sensor data to calculate the brake data and, based on this, the wear data of the friction material (8) is determined.

[0147] Figure 4 shows a flowchart for calculating brake life, based on wear data adjusted to the actual condition of the brake system. This actual condition reflects the variations in each brake system component and the mechanical interactions between components, defining mechanical readjustment. Furthermore, the actual condition considers maintenance or replacement of one or more brake system components.

[0148] Thus, the method of the invention begins with reading sensor data, followed by calculating brake life. When brake life reaches a threshold value, the processing unit activates an alert system, setting a standby mode for calibration. Complementarily or redundantly, the alert system is activated when an outlier is identified, since brake life typically decreases gradually.

[0149] To calculate brake life, which is the inverse of wear, the processing unit (17) determines the brake data based on the brake system specifications. In a drum brake system, the specifications are: lining model (8), drum diameter (1), roller dimensions (16) with or without oversize.

[0150] The following equations exemplify the calculation of the brake data:

[0151] Step 1 - Sensor data processing

[0152] Step 2 - Adjustment of the brake data according to the number of positions read by the sensor. dadOj. reio dctdo tratado + Appositions

[0153] Step 3 - Acid wear data calculation deS g asLe given^ reio / limit ^ reio

[0154] Step 4 - Calculation of brake life^ reio 1 die desqasLe

[0155] In one embodiment, the reference value is detected in a first reading of the sensor data. In one embodiment, the reference value is entered by an operator through an interface of the processing unit. In one embodiment of the brake system being a drum brake, where the sensor reads an angle, the reference value is an offset of the shaft (5) that is in an advanced angular position in relation to the adjuster (4), for example.

[0156] In one embodiment, the brake limit is a maximum value of the brake data. In one embodiment, the brake limit is a value that considers safety requirements, for example, the value before the S-axis (6) “turns” and / or the value before completely consuming the lining (8).

[0157] In one embodiment, the calculation is rounded to show the brake life on a display, for example, on the vehicle's instrument panel, making it easier for the driver to see.

[0158] To this end, during the installation of the brake device, either during the manufacture of the vehicle or in vehicles already manufactured, such reference values ​​are entered into a memory of the device and updated by the calibration of the invention.

[0159] In one embodiment, when brake life reaches a certain percentage, the warning system is activated, indicating an upcoming condition. The upcoming condition is a replacement or maintenance of one or more brake system components.

[0160] In general, new brake systems first carry out the replacement of the friction material (8). Thus, depending on the occurrence of the condition and event, automatic calibration is performed following the flowchart in figure 5. In drum brake systems, the condition is also a maintenance of the drum (1) and / or the roller (16).

[0161] Tables 1 and 2 below show data from sensors being applied to two brake systems (left and right), operating in a mirrored fashion.

[0162] In Table 1, with brake life at 100%, the sensor data initially provides the reference value. With brake applications, brake life naturally decreases, reaching, for example, 10%.

[0163] With this, automatic calibration checks whether the reference value needs to be updated. This check is performed after a condition occurs. To do this, the processing unit identifies a jump in the brake data, indicating brake life from 10% to 100%, for example. In one embodiment, this jump identifies the occurrence of the condition, i.e., replacement / maintenance of one or more brake system components.

[0164] In this example, the condition occurs when the brake data is within a tolerance range. For example, the tolerance range is + / - 25, as illustrated in Table 1, where the brake data changes from 1196 to 10.

[0165] As a result, the brake system was replaced or maintained, requiring the reference value to be updated. After the event occurs, the reference value is updated to reflect subsequent wear data.

[0166] Similarly, Table 2 presents sensor data alongside brake data and brake life. When the brake data is within the tolerance range, the automatic calibration determines that the reference value needs to be updated. Even so, the brake data shows a value of 10 and then 12, meaning the wear data has not yet been adjusted because the event has not occurred.

[0167] In this example, the event occurs when a certain mileage is reached, and the countdown begins after the condition occurs, such as brake system replacement or maintenance. Therefore, when the vehicle exceeds the specified mileage, the reference value is updated, completing the calibration.

[0168] In addition to the reference value, the limit value is also updated depending on which component has been changed. For example, if there is wear on the drum (1), but the replaced lining (8) is the same model as the previous one, the limit value is maintained, and the reference value is changed.

[0169] From these differences between the brake data obtained and adjusted by automatic calibration, the invention allows the identification of wear of other components of the brake system. Table 1 - Sensor installed on the right side Table 2 - Sensor installed on the left side Example 6 - Method for monitoring wear of friction material in a brake system

[0170] For example, wear monitoring in a brake system is obtained by the method of the invention represented by the flowchart in figure 6, and the method provides a monitoring configuration as a preset to obtain a more reliable wear measurement.

[0171] The example method can be summarized in four steps. The first step refers to a standby state of a sensor assembly coupled to the brake system, maintaining a sensor assembly waiting mode. Then, The second stage forms a loop, waiting for an event to occur. The event is the re-engagement of the brake system, that is, when the brake system components are perfectly coupled, fitted, that is, they are ready for brake actuation and start monitoring the wear of the friction material (8) of the brake system.

[0172] Thus, when the event occurs, the method proceeds to the third stage, in which the sensor assembly begins reading and sensing the movement of components already relocated in the brake system. These movements are then converted into data, which is transmitted to a unit (17). Finally, the unit (17) performs processing in the fourth stage to obtain a correlation between the data and the wear of the friction material (8). Example 7 - Lining wear monitoring device in drum brake system

[0173] The device in this example was developed for drum brake applications. A conventional drum brake system is schematically illustrated in Figures 1 to 3.

[0174] The example monitoring device implements the monitoring method and calibration process of the invention. For this purpose, the example device has a sensor assembly and a processing unit (17), positioned in the brake system by means of the structure (9) having a base (10) screwed to the adjuster (4) by the holes (91) as shown in figure 7a.

[0175] Removing the base (10), figure 7b shows the housing (11) directly coupled to the shaft (5). Figure 7c shows a front view of the housing (11) covered by a lid that closes the housing (11) with a screw, facilitating maintenance of the device.

[0176] Figure 7d shows a rear view of the housing (11), highlighting the head (12) that allows the coupling of the housing (11) directly to the shaft (12), with the head (12) fitted into a shoulder with U-shaped geometry formed on the surface of the housing (11). The U-shaped geometry allows centralized alignment between the head (12) and the sensor that is inside the housing (11), in addition it prevents the housing (11) from moving away from the head (12) as it has a fitting that works like a drawer. Even so, this fitting allows for a relative angular movement between the head (12) attached to the shaft (5) and the housing (11) attached to the structure (9), which in turn is fixed to the adjuster housing (4). With this, the head (12) has a threaded end for coupling to the shaft (5).

[0177] In this way, the head (12) defines a first rebounder that is solid to the movement of the shaft (5) as can be seen in figure 7e. In addition, the housing (1 1 ) has reliefs (1 12) on its periphery, which fit into the base (10), preventing the movement of the housing (1 1 ) together with the shaft (5), so that the housing (1 1 ) remains solid to the adjuster (4). Furthermore, the projections (1 12) prevent improper assembly of a pre-arranged position, since the projections are arranged in a non-uniform manner on the periphery of the housing (1 1 ).

[0178] Furthermore, the housing (11) has an interface (115) between the first rebounder and a second rebounder housed inside the housing (11), providing a predetermined spacing between the first rebounder and the second rebounder as shown in figure 7f. For example, the second rebounder is a sensing module (14) with a sensor distanced from the first rebounder by means of the interface (115) together with the head (12), so that the sensor perceives the movement of the first rebounder.

[0179] This sensor uses the Hall effect principle to read the angular variation resulting from the relative movement between shaft (5) and adjuster (4). Certainly, other sensor models can be used to realize the concept proposed in the invention, so that the one exemplified here (AS5600 sensor) does not restrict the scope of the same.

[0180] Thus, the device in the example employs the concept of the invention by being provided with a sensor assembly that perceives the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) as illustrated by the different positions of the sensing module (14) in relation to the shaft (5) shown in figures 7g and 7h, with the sensing module (14) associated with the adjuster (4).

[0181] This perception by the sensor set is carried out after the occurrence of the event, being identified through a plurality of ways, such as: exceeding a certain mileage shown by the vehicle's odometer; a certain time passing since the last lining change (8) indicated by the vehicle's telemetry system; brake activation number indicated by a vehicle control unit (VCU), among others. Therefore, the occurrence of the event corresponds to the readjustment between the components of the drum brake system.

[0182] Thus, with the reading of the movement after the occurrence of the event, the relative movement between the adjuster (4) and shaft (5) is converted into data of said relative movement from the angular variation between the sensing module (14) and a magnet (13) coupled to the head (12).

[0183] Finally, a processing unit (17) receives the data from said relative motion and correlates the data with a motion data related to wear. For example, the processing unit (17) is also housed in the housing (1 1 ). Furthermore, depending on the event that occurred, the unit (17) applies a correction to the data if necessary. For example, the minimum mileage event occurred, but the data indicates an angular variation other than zero. In this case, the unit (17) assigns a zero value to the data from the event that occurred to begin counting the wear of the friction material (8). In other cases, the correction is not necessary, when the data value is still zero when the event (100) occurs.

[0184] Additionally, the sensor's embedded circuit (14) has a radio module, allowing wireless communication either for communication with a control unit fixed to the chassis or for powering and receiving signals via cabling. With this, the sensor (14) sends data on the relative movement between the adjuster (4) and shaft (5) to a processing unit (17).

[0185] In this example, the processing unit (17) is attached to a surface opposite the surface housing the sensor (14). This allows wear monitoring to be performed onboard the vehicle itself, making this data available to the driver and, simultaneously, to a server or remote user. The processing unit (17) is equipped with onboard intelligence that executes an algorithm. This algorithm correlates previously stored data with the data read by the sensor (14), considering the events that have occurred. The previously stored data are relative angular variations between the adjuster (4) and the shaft (5) correlated with wear data. In turn, the wear data include brake drum wear (1), lining wear (8) with excess material, and roller wear with excess measurement near the shaft (5).

[0186] Based on this, figures 8 and 9, taken from the AS5600 component datasheet to clarify its operation, show respectively an example of the angular variation of the magnet (13) in relation to the sensor (14) and a recommended distance range between the magnet (13) and the sensor (14). This distance range was considered when mounting the sensor (14) to the housing (11) of the structure (9). This distance range is also considered when relocating the system during the monitoring presetup. In this example, the interface (115) between the sensor and the magnet is a partition in the housing (11).

[0187] Thus, for example, the present invention provides more precise and accurate wear information by detecting the relative movement between adjuster (4) and shaft (5) after the occurrence of events (100).

[0188] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the knowledge presented herein and will be able to reproduce the invention in the presented embodiments and in other variants and alternatives, covered by the scope of the following claims.

Claims

Claims 1. Method for monitoring the health status of at least one brake system component, characterized by comprising the steps of: a. determining a component's wear data; based on at least one brake system data; and b. automatic calibration of the component's wear data.

2. Monitoring method, according to claim 1, characterized by comprising an additional step of correlation between a sensor data and a brake system specification, providing the brake system data.

3. Monitoring method according to claim 1, characterized in that the automatic calibration starts upon the occurrence of a condition.

4. Monitoring method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the automatic calibration comprises an adjustment of the brake system data after the occurrence of at least one event.

5. Monitoring method according to claim 4, characterized in that the event is a change related to at least one component of the brake system and / or a combination of components of the brake system.

6. Monitoring method according to claim 4, characterized in that the adjustment of the brake system data results in a zeroing of the component wear data.

7. Monitoring method, according to claim 1, characterized in that the calibration step comprises a pre-step of activating an alert system, based on the component wear data.

8. Device for monitoring the health status of at least one brake system component, characterized by comprising a sensor assembly that detects wear data on the component, the assembly being sensor positioned in the brake system and communicating with a processing unit (17) that automatically calibrates said wear data.

9. Monitoring device according to claim 8, characterized in that the processing unit (17) provides brake system data to determine component wear data based on a correlation between sensor data from the sensor assembly and a brake system specification.

10. Monitoring device, according to claim 8, characterized in that the automatic calibration comprises an adjustment of the brake system data after the occurrence of at least one event.

11. Process of calibrating wear data for at least one brake system component, characterized by comprising the steps of: a. initialization after the occurrence of a condition; b. adjustment of brake system data; and c. completion with the adjusted wear data after the occurrence of an event.

12. Method according to claim 11, characterized in that the adjustment of the brake system data results in zeroing of the wear data.

13. Health status monitoring system of at least one brake system component characterized by comprising a processing unit (17) that automatically calibrates a wear data by means of an adjustment of a brake system data.

14. Monitoring system according to claim 13, characterized in that the processing unit (17) is implemented locally in the brake system and / or remotely.

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