Brake with device for measuring braking torque and method

Abstract

A brake caliper (1) for a disc brake (2) comprising a caliper body (3) configured to straddle a brake disc (4). The brake disc (4) includes a braking band (5) with opposite braking surfaces (6, 7). The brake caliper (1) comprises a first brake pad (8) and a second brake pad (9) actuated by at least one pushing device (10) housed in the caliper body (3). Each brake pad (8, 9) comprises a support plate (11) and friction material (12). The caliper body (3) includes abutment surfaces (15, 16, 17, 18) for receiving the brake pads (8, 9) during braking. The caliper body (3) has at least one sensor seat (19) which houses at least one force detection sensor (20) for measuring the force exerted by the brake pads.

Description

"Brake with device for measuring braking torque and method" DESCRIPTION

[0001] . Field of the Invention

[0002] . The present invention relates to braking systems, in particular disc brakes equipped with devices for measuring the braking torque of the wheel . More specifically, the invention relates to a brake caliper for a disc brake that includes a force detection sensor for measuring the tangential forces exerted by the brake pads on the brake disc during braking.

[0003] . Furthermore, the present invention relates to braking systems, in particular disc brakes equipped with devices for measuring the braking torque of the wheel . More specifically, the invention relates to a brake caliper for a disc brake that includes a force detection sensor for measuring the tangential forces exerted by the brake pads on the brake disc during braking.

[0004] . Prior Art

[0005] . Brake caliper bodies for disc brakes are generally suitable for being arranged astride an associable brake disc having a first braking surface, or vehicle-side braking surface, and a second braking surface, or wheel-side braking surface, opposite said first braking surface . Said caliper bodies generally comprise a first elongated portion, or vehicle-side elongated portion, at least partially suitable for facing said first braking surface, and a second elongated portion, or wheel-side elongated portion, opposite said firstelongated portion and at least partially suitable for facing said second braking surface . Known caliper bodies comprise at least one bridge, adapted to connect said first elongated portion with said second elongated portion, so as to be arranged astride the brake disc when said caliper body is assembled to the brake disc .

[0006] . There is a need in this field to achieve an accurate and direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc of a vehicle during a braking action. This measurement is crucial for improving the performance and safety of braking systems, providing, for example, real-time data to vehicle control systems and enhancing the overall efficiency of the braking process .

[0007] . It is known from the prior art that various patent documents describe brake calipers for disc brakes with systems and methods for measuring braking torque .

[0008] . However, these systems typically rely on indirect measurements of the effects of torque on various parts of the braking system. Sensors of various types are used in some parts of the braking system, but all aim to measure indirect effects of the applied braking torque, such as measuring shear on the fixing pins, the increase in pressure via the movement of the pad on hydraulic components, strain gauges to measure stress on the caliper fixing support, and displacements under load. These methods assume that the indirect effect measured depends solely on the effects of the torque, whereas in reality many other factors must be considered, such as unknownlateral forces, unknown bending moments, and hysteresis due to friction effects, which lead to measurement errors that are nearly impossible to compensate .

[0009] . For example, one of the unresolved problems to date is to measure the portion of the action of the brake pad that actually contributes to the braking action of the vehicle . All this is complicated by the fact that these measurements must be carried out by sensors arranged in environments extremely affected by dirt, dust, and vibrations present where a brake caliper is located. Furthermore, this measurement must be carried out in an environment with high or very high temperatures, since the energy involved in high decelerations is substantially converted into heat . This has always led all designers to position sensors as far away as possible from the brake disc and brake pads .

[0010] . Document W02021011981A1 describes a measurement system for determining a braking torque between a fixed braking device and a rotating braking element, in particular a brake disc, wherein the measurement system comprises at least one piezoelectric element and a signal processing device . The piezoelectric element may be arranged in a force flow between the braking element and a counter-bearing supporting the braking device, generating a measurement signal using a piezoelectric effect, in particular a shear effect, of the piezoelectric element . The signal processing device is configured to determine the braking torque based on the measurement signal . However, this document does not provide a direct measurement of the brakingtorque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action .

[0011] . Document WO2022233814A1 describes a measurement system for measuring the braking torque generated by the braking system of a vehicle along an axis, comprising a brake caliper . The measurement system comprises a support structure, a measuring unit for measuring a quantity representative of the braking torque, and a stroke limiter. The support structure is adapted to rotatably connect the brake caliper to a frame, allowing the brake caliper to rotate with respect to the frame along the axis . The stroke limiter is arranged at one end of the stroke to transfer at least part of the braking torque from the brake caliper to the frame when the brake caliper is at the end of its stroke . However, this document does not provide a direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action.

[0012] . Document US20070228815A1 describes an apparatus for detecting the braking force by detecting the deformation of a caliper bracket . The caliper bracket has two fixed parts secured to a wheel support and a connecting part connecting the fixed parts . The connecting part of the caliper bracket is formed with a recess at a position radially external to the line connecting the fixed parts in the radial direction of the brake disc. A sensor plate is press-fitted into the recess of the connecting part to undergo the deformation generated in the connecting part in its tension direction. A strain gauge is fixed to the sensor plate . However, this document does notprovide a direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action.

[0013] . Document US20190193693A1 describes a method and apparatus for detecting the wheel torque of a highly automated driving (HAD) vehicle, comprising a wheel hub configured to rotate around a rotation axis as the vehicle moves and a brake caliper, comprising a brake pad, configured to apply a caliper force to the wheel hub. A reaction trolley is interconnected with the brake caliper and configured to have a reaction force applied when the brake caliper applies the caliper force to the wheel hub . The wheel torque sensor comprises a hydraulic chamber with hydraulic fluid and a pressure sensor interconnected with the hydraulic chamber, detecting the pressure applied to the hydraulic fluid in response to the reaction force . However, this document does not provide a direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action.

[0014] . Document EP3472012B1 describes a device for detecting residual braking torque in a vehicle equipped with disc brakes, comprising, for each wheel of the vehicle, at least one piezoceramic sensor integrated into the friction material support of a brake assembly. The piezoceramic sensor is connected, via an electric circuit, to at least one electronic control unit dedicated to acquiring and managing the signals detected by the piezoceramic sensor directly from the friction material of the brake assembly. The signal management means comprise at least one residual torque indicatorinteracting with at least one service interface of at least one onboard computer of the vehicle via at least one dedicated communication system. However, this document does not provide a direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action.

[0015] . There is therefore a need for a brake caliper for a disc brake that allows the direct measurement of the braking torque acting between the brake pad and the brake disc during a braking action, addressing the shortcomings of the above-mentioned prior art documents .

[0016] . Solut ion

[0017] . One obj ect of the present invention is to overcome the drawbacks of the known art and to provide a solution to the need to provide a caliper body, as well as a method for manufacturing said caliper body, as defined in the appended claims .

[0018] . This and other obj ects are achieved with a caliper body according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 11, as well as a use claim according to claim 14.

[0019] . Some advantageous embodiments are the subj ect of the dependent claims .

[0020] . In one embodiment, the brake caliper for a disc brake system comprises a caliper body designed to be arranged astride a brake disc, which defines an axial direction parallel to the rotation axis of the disc, a radial direction perpendicular to the axial direction, and a tangential direction perpendicular to both the axial direction andthe radial direction. The caliper body houses a pair of brake pads, each comprising a pad plate and friction material, which are actuated by at least one piston to press against the braking surfaces of the disc . The caliper body has abutment surfaces that interact with the brake pads during braking. A sensor seat is integrated into the caliper body near these abutment surfaces to accommodate a force detection sensor, which measures the force exerted by the brake pads on the disc .

[0021] . In another embodiment, the brake caliper comprises an insert positioned between the brake pad and the caliper body. This insert has a surface that mirrors the support surface of the pad to accurately transfer the braking force to the sensor. The insert also has a contact surface with the sensor that interfaces with the force detection sensor, ensuring accurate force measurement . The insert can be designed with a cylindrical extension to move the sensor away from the brake pads, protecting the sensor from the heat and debris generated during braking.

[0022] . In a further embodiment, the sensor seat of the caliper body is designed as a pocket within the caliper body, radially oriented to minimise the thermal influence from the brake disc and pads . This pocket may be configured to securely hold the sensor while allowing easy installation and maintenance . The sensor itself may be a piezoelectric load cell, such as the HBK™ 1-CLP / 26KN model, known for its wide force range, minimal deformation under load, and high-frequency response, ensuring accurate and reliable force measurements .

[0023] . In another embodiment, the brake caliper may be equipped with multiple sensors positioned in various locations within the caliper body. For example, the sensors may be positioned on both the vehicle side and the wheel side of the caliper to measure the forces from both brake pads . This configuration allows comprehensive monitoring of braking forces, improving the accuracy of braking torque calculation and enhancing vehicle control .

[0024] . Furthermore, the brake caliper may be designed with ventilation features, such as air ducts or cooling fins, to dissipate heat and protect the sensors from high temperatures . These features ensure the longevity and reliability of the sensors, even under intense braking conditions . The caliper may also be made from lightweight and high-strength materials to reduce the overall weight of the vehicle while maintaining structural integrity and performance .

[0025] . These embodiments demonstrate the adaptability of the brake caliper system within the defined scope, offering various configurations and features to improve the accuracy of force measurement, sensor protection, and overall braking performance .

[0026] . Advantages achievable through the previously described embodiments are summarised below.

[0027] . Direct Measurement of Braking Forces :

[0028] . The presence of at least one sensor seat 19 in the caliper body 3 allows a direct force detection sensor 20 to be housed near the pad and to receive information directly from the brake pad. This enables the direct measurement of the braking forces exerted by thebrake pads 8, 9 on the brake disc 4, eliminating the inaccuracies associated with indirect measurement methods .

[0029] . Accuracy and Reliability:

[0030] . By positioning the sensor 20 near the abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18, the system ensures that the sensor captures the actual forces exerted during braking. This improves the accuracy and reliability of the braking force measurements, leading to better vehicle control and safety.

[0031] . Accurate Calculation of Braking Torque :

[0032] . The direct measurement of tangential forces enables the precise calculation of the braking torque Tdisc, improving the overall performance of the braking system.

[0033] . Reduction of Measurement Errors :

[0034] . The direct measurement approach eliminates the inaccuracies associated with indirect measurement methods, such as those relying on strain gauges or hydraulic pressure variations . This reduces measurement errors due to unknown lateral forces, unknown bending moments, and hysteresis caused by friction effects .

[0035] . Sensor Protection:

[0036] . The sensor seat 19 is configured to protect the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 from heat, debris, and other environmental factors that could affect its accuracy and reliability. This improves the sensor' s durability and reliability.

[0037] . Accurate Force Transmission:

[0038] . The brake pad support insert 21, positioned between the padsupport surface 13 or 14 and the abutment surface 15, 16, 17 or 18, ensures accurate transmission of the braking forces to the sensor 20. This improves the precision of the braking force measurement .

[0039] . Uniform Force Transmission:

[0040] . The pad support surface 13 or 14 and the insert support surface 22 are flat and orthogonal to the tangential direction T-T, ensuring uniform and precise transmission of braking forces to the sensor 20.

[0041] . Accurate Monitoring of Braking Forces :

[0042] . The possibility of positioning the sensor 20 on the side of the caliper body 3 at the outlet of the brake disc 4 allows accurate monitoring of the braking forces on both the vehicle-side and wheelside brake pads 8, 9 during forward travel of the vehicle .

[0043] . Reduction of Temperature Influence:

[0044] . The sensor seat 19 may be pocket-shaped and obtained in the caliper body 3 to move away from the brake pad 8 or 9 and the brake disc 4, reducing the influence of the temperature generated by the braking action on the sensor 20. This protects the sensor from heat, improving its durability and reliability.

[0045] . Ease of Assembly:

[0046] . The method of assembling the brake caliper 1, which includes housing the sensor 20 near the abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18 and inserting the brake pads 8, 9 into the respective seats of the caliper body 3, ensures precise and secure assembly of the brake caliper, improving its effectiveness and reliability.

[0047] . Sensor Versatility:

[0048] . The proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 may be a piezoelectric load cell, such as the HBK™ 1-CLP / 26KN type, with a capacity of 26KN, a thickness of 3.5 mm, capable of an overload of 30KN and a preload of 5.2KN, capable of withstanding a bending action of 35Nm, and with a bandwidth above 20KHz . These features ensure precise, reliable, and highly dynamic measurement of braking forces, improving vehicle safety and performance .

[0049] . Comprehensive Monitoring of Braking Forces :

[0050] . The possibility of positioning the sensor 20 in one or more shoulders 35 of the caliper body 3, suitable for receiving the support of the brake pads 8, 9 during braking in forward or reverse travel of the vehicle, allows accurate monitoring of the braking forces on all the pads, improving braking control .

[0051] . Heat Reduction:

[0052] . The presence of insert ventilation holes 34 in the brake pad support insert 21 reduces the heat transferred from the brake pad 8, 9 and the brake disc 4 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20, improving the sensor' s durability and reliability and lightening the brake caliper 1.

[0053] . Figures

[0054] . Further features and advantages of the invention will appear from the following description of its preferred embodiments, provided by way of non-limiting example, with reference to the accompanying figures, in which:

[0055] . FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a brake caliper assembly for a disc brake, illustrating the main components and their positioning .

[0056] . FIG. 2 is a front vehicle-side view of the brake caliper assembly with the sensor for measuring tangential forces .

[0057] . FIG. 3 shows a top view of a brake caliper assembly with integrated force sensors and brake pads .

[0058] . FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of a brake caliper illustrating the positioning of the sensor and the insert within the caliper body.

[0059] . FIG. 5 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a detail of the positioning of the load cell and the load cell housing inside the brake caliper.

[0060] . FIG. 6 is a cross-sectional view of a detail of a brake caliper illustrating the positioning of the force detection sensor and associated components .

[0061] . FIG. 7 is a top view of the brake caliper assembly showing the positioning of the brake pads and the force measurement sensors .

[0062] . FIG. 8 shows a partial view of the caliper body with the housing, or seat, of the sensor.

[0063] . FIG. 9 shows a detailed view of the sensor housing inside the caliper body.

[0064] . FIG. 10 shows a detailed view of the sensor housing inside the brake caliper assembly.

[0065] . FIG. 11 shows an insert for supporting the brake pad withvarious structural features and attachment points .

[0066] . FIG. 12 shows a detailed radial view of the insert and the components of the insert .

[0067] . FIG. 13 shows a detailed view of the brake caliper assembly highlighting the attachment points and components, where it is shown that the sensor seat may be open towards the brake disc side .

[0068] . FIG. 14 shows a detailed view of the brake caliper assembly of figure 13 with the sensor mounting components, in which a metal shield protects the caliper body and the sensor from heat and debris coming from the brake disc.

[0069] . FIG. 15 shows a cross-sectional view of the brake caliper showing the positioning of the force detection sensor inside the caliper body.

[0070] . IG. 16 is a perspective view of a brake caliper assembly with integrated force sensors .

[0071] . FIG. 17 shows a top view of a brake caliper assembly of figure 16 showing the positioning of the brake pads, sensors, and inserts .

[0072] . FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the positioning of the sensor inside the brake caliper assembly.

[0073] . FIG. 19 illustrates the action of the brake pads on the brake disc in a disc brake system.

[0074] . FIG. 20 illustrates the calculation of the braking torque Tdisc from the tangential force Ftang applied by the brake pads on the brake disc;

[0075] . FIG. 21 illustrates the force Fz acting on the sensor 20 in the braking system.

[0076] . FIG. 22 is an exploded perspective view of a brake caliper assembly illustrating the components and their positioning.

[0077] . FIG. 23 shows an exploded view of a brake caliper assembly with the components .

[0078] . FIG. 24 illustrates the assembly sequence of the load cell and the load cell housing inside the brake caliper .

[0079] . FIG. 25 illustrates the assembly sequence of two load cells and the load cell housings inside the brake caliper.

[0080] . Description of some preferred embodiments

[0081] . Hereinafter, the term "proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor" refers to a device used to measure the force applied in a system, which may be positioned to detect the force exerted either in proximity or remotely through the effects of the force on extensions of system parts . In the context of a disc brake, this sensor is used to measure the forces, preferably tangential, exerted by the brake pads on the brake disc during the braking action, improving the accuracy and reliability of braking torque measurement .

[0082] . Hereinafter, the term "brake pad support insert" refers to a component used in a brake caliper assembly to facilitate accurate transmission of the forces from the brake pad to a force sensor. This insert is positioned between the brake pad and the caliper body, ensuring that the tangential forces generated during braking are effectively transferred to the sensor for precise measurement ofbraking forces .

[0083] . Hereinafter, the term "pad support surface" refers to a contact surface of the brake pad that abuts against the abutment surfaces of the inserts in a disc brake system. This surface is crucial for ensuring the correct transmission of forces from the brake pad to the caliper during braking actions, enabling accurate measurement and effective braking performance .

[0084] . Hereinafter, the term "abutment surface" refers to a contact surface on the body of the brake caliper designed to receive and support the brake pads during the braking action. This surface ensures proper alignment and the transmission of forces between the brake pads and the caliper, enabling accurate measurement of braking forces and effective braking performance . This surface may receive the action of an insert interposed between the brake pad and the caliper body.

[0085] . Hereinafter, the term "sensor seat" refers to a housing or seat for a sensor within the brake caliper assembly. It is a designated area, a cavity or pocket in the caliper body designed to accommodate and secure a force detection sensor, such as a piezoelectric load cell . This seat is configured to ensure that the sensor is correctly positioned to measure the forces exerted by the brake pads during braking actions, protecting the sensor from heat, debris, and other environmental factors that could affect its accuracy and reliability.

[0086] . The braking process in a disc brake system, as illustrated in figures 19 and 20, involves several stages and key components that work together to generate the braking torque required to slow down orstop a vehicle .

[0087] . Figure 19 : Action of the pads on the brake disc

[0088] . Figure 19 shows the action of the brake pads on the brake disc . In this system, the brake pads ( 8, 9) are actuated by thrust devices ( 10) , which are typically, but not necessarily, hydraulic pistons . These devices may also be electromechanical components actuated by an electrical signal generated by a control unit in proportion to the braking action desired by the system or the driver. In the case of a hydraulic actuation system, to simplify understanding, when the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid is forced into the pistons, generating a thrust force Fpist that pushes the brake pads against the braking surfaces of the brake disc ( 6, 7) .

[0089] . The thrust forces Fpist act perpendicularly to the surfaces of the brake pads, compressing the friction material of the pads against the brake disc (4) . This contact generates tangential forces Fl tang and F2tang due to the friction between the pads and the disc. The tangential forces are responsible for the deceleration of the brake disc and, consequently, of the vehicle .

[0090] . Figure 20 : Creation of braking torque

[0091] . Figure 20 illustrates how the brake caliper generates a braking torque Tdisc. The tangential forces Ftang generated by the brake pads act on surfaces that may be simplified as specific points of application of the action on the brake disc . The distance between the centre of rotation of the brake disc and the "theoretical" pointof application of the tangential forces is defined as the effective radius Reff .

[0092] . The braking torque Tdisc is calculated by multiplying the tangential force Ftang by the effective radius Reff :

[0093] . Tdisc = Ftang • Reff

[0094] . This braking torque is what actually slows the rotation of the brake disc and, consequently, the vehicle wheel . The precise measurement of tangential forces is crucial for determining the applied braking torque and for ensuring accurate vehicle control .

[0095] . Details of the braking process

[0096] . Activation of the Braking System: When the driver presses the brake pedal, the hydraulic fluid (or the proportional electrical signal) is pushed (sent via a control unit) into the thrust devices (10) of the brake caliper (1 ) .

[0097] . Generation of Thrust Force: The thrust devices generate a thrust force Fpist that pushes the brake pads ( 8, 9) against the braking surfaces of the brake disc ( 6, 7) .

[0098] . Creation of Tangential Forces : The contact between the brake pads and the brake disc generates tangential forces Fltang and F2tang due to friction.

[0099] . Calculation of Braking Torque: The tangential forces act at a distance Reff from the centre of rotation of the brake disc, creating a braking torque Tdisc that slows the rotation of the disc .

[0100] . This detailed process ensures that braking is effective and controlled, enhancing the safety and performance of the vehicle .

[0101] . With reference to the figures, and in accordance with a general embodiment, the present invention concerns a brake caliper 1 for a disc brake 2, comprising a caliper body 3 suitable for being arranged astride a brake disc 4. The brake disc 4 defines an axial direction A-A, parallel to the rotation axis X-X of the brake disc 4, a radial direction R-R perpendicular to the axial direction A-A, and a circumferential direction C-C orthogonal at one point to said axial direction A-A and said radial direction R-R, as well as a tangential direction T-T perpendicular to both said axial direction A-A and said radial direction R-R. The brake disc 4 comprises a braking band 5 having opposite braking surfaces 6, 7.

[0102] . The brake caliper 1 comprises a first vehicle-side brake pad 8 and a second wheel-side brake pad 9 which, under the action of at least one thrust device 10 housed in said caliper body 3, are adapted to abut against said opposite braking surfaces 6, 7 to apply a braking action to a vehicle . Each of said first and second brake pads 8, 9 comprises a pad plate 11 and pad friction material 12 supported by said pad plate 11. Each of said first and second brake pads 8, 9 comprises opposed pad support surfaces 13, 14 to support each of said first and second brake pads 8, 9 against said caliper body 3 .

[0103] . The caliper body 3 comprises abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18 adapted to receive the support of said first and second brake pads 8, 9 during the braking action. Close to at least one abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18, the caliper body 3 comprises at least one sensor seat19 which houses at least one proximity or remote (direct) fforce detection sensor 20 of the force exerted by at least one pad of said first and second brake pads 8, 9 to said at least one abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18. This allows for direct and precise measurement of the braking force, improving vehicle control and safety.

[0104] . According to a further embodiment, the brake caliper 1 comprises at least one brake pad support insert 21 interposed between the pad support surface 13 or 14 and the abutment surface 15, 16, 17 or 18. The brake pad support insert 21 comprises an insert support surface 22 which follows the pad support surface 13 or 14 so as to receive at least part of the action that the brake pad 8 or 9 applies against the caliper body 3 during the braking action of the vehicle . The brake pad support insert 21 comprises a sensor support surface 23 which transmits at least part of the action that the brake pad 8 or 9 applies against the caliper body 3 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20. This ensures accurate transmission of the braking forces to the sensor, improving the precision of the measurement .

[0105] . According to a further embodiment, at least part of the action that the brake pad 8 or 9 exerts against the caliper body 3 during the braking action of the vehicle is a direct bias according to the tangential direction T-T or a direction orthogonal to a caliper centre plane comprising a radial direction R-R and an axial direction A-A. This tangential action Ftang is transmitted and detected by the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20. This allowsfor direct measurement of the tangential forces, improving the precision of the braking torque measurement .

[0106] . According to a further embodiment, the pad support surface 13 or 14 is flat and the insert support surface 22 is flat, and both are orthogonal to the tangential direction T-T or to the tangential direction T-T orthogonal to a caliper centre plane comprising a radial direction R-R and an axial direction A-A. This ensures uniform and precise transmission of braking forces to the sensor.

[0107] . According to a further embodiment, the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is positioned on the side of the caliper body 3 at the outlet of the brake disc 4 to detect the braking action during forward travel of the vehicle . Alternatively, the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 may consist of two sensors positioned on the side of the caliper body 3 at the outlet of the brake disc 4 to detect the braking action of both vehicle-side and wheel-side brake pads 8, 9 during forward travel of the vehicle . This allows for accurate monitoring of the braking forces on both pads, improving braking control .

[0108] . According to a further embodiment, the brake pad support insert 21 comprises a first surface, or sensor support surface 23, adapted to abut against the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 and a second surface, or insert support surface 22, adapted to abut against said tangential disc outlet surface of at least one of the first vehicle-side brake pad 8 and the second wheelside brake pad 9 during a braking action. This ensures direct andprecise transmission of the braking forces to the sensor.

[0109] . According to a further embodiment, the sensor support surface 23 of said brake pad support insert 21 is obtained at the end of a cylindrical insert extension 25. Alternatively, the sensor support surface 23 of said brake pad support insert 21 is obtained at the end of a cylindrical insert extension 25, for reaching the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 housed in said sensor seat 19, which sensor seat 19 is shaped like a pocket obtained in the caliper body 3 to move away from the brake pad 8 or 9 and the brake disc 4 and reduce the influence of the temperature generated by the braking action on the sensor. This protects the sensor from heat and debris, improving its durability and reliability.

[0110] . According to a further embodiment, said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a flat shaped pad support portion 24.

[0111] . According to a further embodiment, said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a cylindrical extension 25 extending from a flat shaped pad support portion 24.

[0112] . According to a further embodiment, the flat shaped pad support portion 24 of said brake pad support insert 21 comprises extensions extending to embrace the pad or plate edge 11, resulting in a C-shaped portion 26.

[0113] . According to a further embodiment, the pad support portion 24 of said brake pad support insert 21 comprises extensions extending to embrace the pad or plate edge 11 forming an insert portion 27 resting on the back of the pad or plate .

[0114] . According to a further embodiment, said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a cylindrical extension 25 extending from a flat shaped pad support portion 24.

[0115] . According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical extension 25 comprises a hole 28 to accommodate a connection device, such as a fixing screw, for the connection with the caliper body 3.

[0116] . According to a further embodiment, said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a cylindrical extension 25 extending from a flat shaped pad support portion 24.

[0117] . According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical extension 25 comprises a the end of cylindrical extension 29 and said end 29 has a smaller diameter than the diameter of said cylindrical extension 25.

[0118] . According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical extension end 29 is inserted into a sensor connection seat 30 provided in said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20. Said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a cylindrical extension 25 extending from a flat shaped pad support portion 24.

[0119] . According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical extension 25 comprises a the end of cylindrical extension 29 and said end 29 has a smaller diameter than the diameter of said cylindrical extension 25.

[0120] . According to a further embodiment, said cylindrical extension end 29 is inserted into a sensor connection seat 30.

[0121] . According to a further embodiment, said sensor connectionseat 30 is a through-hole . Said pad support portion 24 of said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a transverse fixing extension to the caliper body 31.

[0122] . According to a further embodiment, said brake pad support insert 21 comprises insert connection seats 32 for connecting said brake pad support insert 21 to said caliper body 3 by means of connection devices 32 such as screws or plugs and bolts .

[0123] . According to a further embodiment, said pad support portion 24 of said brake pad support insert 21 comprises a transverse fixing extension to the caliper body 31; said transverse fixing extension 31 is a piece separated from said insert 21 and said transverse fixing extension 31 is partially accommodated in a locking seat 37 provided in said pad support portion 24.

[0124] . According to a further embodiment, the pad support portion 24 of said brake pad support insert 21 comprises insert ventilation holes 34 for ventilating the insert 21 in order to reduce the heat transferred from the brake pad 8, 9 and the brake disc 4 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 and to lighten the brake caliper 1.

[0125] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is at least partially accommodated in said seat of the caliper body 3.

[0126] . According to a further embodiment, said sensor seat in said brake pad support insert 21 is a pocket 19.

[0127] . According to a further embodiment, said seat of the caliperbody 3 is a pocket-shaped seat having an access opening for said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 oriented in the radial direction R-R.

[0128] . According to a further embodiment, said sensor seat in said brake pad support insert 21 is a pocket 19 having an opening for the connection with said brake pad support insert 22.

[0129] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is at least partially accommodated in said insert seat 21.

[0130] . According to a further embodiment, said sensor seat in said brake pad support insert 21 is adapted to arrange said proximity or remote (direct) detection sensor 20 to detect an action Ftang of the pad directed according to the tangential direction or directed according to the direction orthogonal to the caliper centre plane .

[0131] . These features improve the stability and accuracy of braking force measurement, protecting the sensor and ensuring accurate force transmission .

[0132] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is a load cell .

[0133] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is a piezoelectric-type load cell .

[0134] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is of the HBK™ 1-CLP / 26KN type with a capacity of 26KN, a thickness of 3.5 mm, capable of an overload of 30KN and a preload of 5.2KN, capable of withstanding a bending actionof 35Nm .

[0135] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 has a bandwidth above 20KHz .

[0136] . These features ensure precise and reliable measurement of braking forces, improving vehicle safety and performance .

[0137] . According to a further embodiment, said caliper body 3 comprises at least one caliper body shoulder 35 defining a pad accommodating pocket 36 in the caliper body 3 which accommodates at least one brake pad 8, 9.

[0138] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is positioned in said shoulder 35.

[0139] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is positioned in two shoulders 35 positioned in the caliper body 3 on the disc outlet side thereof .

[0140] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is positioned in three shoulders 35 of the caliper body 3, two positioned in the caliper body 3 on the disc outlet side thereof and one positioned in the caliper body 3 on the disc inlet side thereof .

[0141] . According to a further embodiment, said proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is positioned in all shoulders 35 of the caliper body 3 adapted to receive the support of the brake pads 8, 9 during the braking action in forward or reverse travel of the vehicle .

[0142] . These features allow for accurate monitoring of the brakingforces on all pads, improving braking control .

[0143] . According to a general embodiment, a method of mounting a brake caliper 1 for a disc brake 2, comprising a caliper body 3, a first vehicle-side brake pad 8, a second wheel-side brake pad 9 and at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20, comprises the following steps :

[0144] . a) Housing said at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 close to at least one abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 provided in the caliper 3 where at least one of said pads 8 or 9 abuts during a braking action;

[0145] . b) Ensuring that the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is capable of detecting the force applied by at least one brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action;

[0146] . c) Inserting each brake pad 8, 9 into the respective seats of the caliper body 3 so that their pad support surfaces 13, 14 face the abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18 of the caliper body 3.

[0147] . This method ensures precise and secure mounting of the brake caliper, improving its effectiveness and reliability.

[0148] . According to a further execution of the method, the method comprises further steps :

[0149] . before step c)

[0150] . d) Inserting at least one brake pad support insert 21 between the pad support surface 13, 14 and the abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 of the caliper body 3;

[0151] . f) Ensuring that the brake pad support insert 21 comprisesan insert support surface 22 which follows the pad support surface 13, 14 and a sensor support surface 23 which transmits the force applied by the brake pad 8, 9 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20;

[0152] . g) Fixing the brake pad support insert 21 so that the force applied by the brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action is completely transmitted to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 .

[0153] . This method ensures accurate transmission of the braking forces to the sensor, improving measurement precision.

[0154] . According to a further execution of the method, the method comprises further steps :

[0155] . before step c)

[0156] . d) Inserting at least one brake pad support insert 21 between the pad support surface 13, 14 and the abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 of the caliper body 3;

[0157] . e) Ensuring that the brake pad support insert 21 comprises an insert support surface 22 which follows the pad support surface 13, 14 and a sensor support surface 23 which transmits the tangential force, i . e . , directed in the tangential T-T or circumferential C-C direction, applied by the brake pad 8, 9 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20;

[0158] . f) Fixing the brake pad support insert 21 so that the tangential T-T or circumferential C-C force applied by the brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action is completely transmitted to theproximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20.

[0159] . This method ensures accurate transmission of the tangential forces to the sensor, improving the precision of braking torque measurement .

[0160] . According to a general embodiment, the use of a brake caliper 1 for a disc brake 2, comprising a caliper body 3, a first vehicle-side brake pad 8, a second wheel-side brake pad 9 and at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20, to calculate the braking action, wherein the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is connected to a signal conversion and data processing control unit, comprises the following steps :

[0161] . a) Housing said at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 close to at least one abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 provided in the caliper 3 where at least one of said pads 8 or 9 abuts during a braking action;

[0162] . b) Ensuring that the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is capable of detecting the tangential force applied by at least one brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action;

[0163] . c) Transmitting the data detected by the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action. This method allows for accurate monitoring and calculation of the braking action, improving vehicle control .

[0164] . According to a further execution of the method, the method comprises further steps :

[0165] . d) Inserting at least one brake pad support insert 21 between the pad support surface 13, 14 and the abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 of the caliper body 3;

[0166] . e) Ensuring that the brake pad support insert 21 comprises an insert support surface 22 which follows the pad support surface 13, 14 and a sensor support surface 23 which transmits the tangential force applied by the brake pad 8, 9 to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20.

[0167] . This method ensures accurate transmission of the tangential forces to the sensor, improving the precision of the braking torque measurement .

[0168] . According to a further execution of the method, the method comprises further steps :

[0169] . f) Fixing the brake pad support insert 21 so that the tangential force applied by the brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action is completely transmitted to the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20;

[0170] . g) Transmitting the data detected by the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action.

[0171] . This method ensures accurate transmission of the tangential forces to the sensor and proper processing of the braking data, improving vehicle control .

[0172] . According to a general embodiment, the use of a brake caliper 1 for a disc brake 2, wherein the steps of providing a brakecaliper according to any of the previously described caliper claims are provided, comprising a caliper body 3, a first vehicle-side brake pad 8, a second wheel-side brake pad 9 and at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20, for adjusting the braking of the vehicle, wherein the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is connected to a signal conversion and data processing control unit, comprises the following steps :

[0173] . a) Housing said at least one proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 close to at least one abutment surface 15, 16, 17, 18 provided in the caliper 3 where at least one of said pads 8 or 9 abuts during a braking action;

[0174] . b) Ensuring that the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 is capable of detecting the tangential force applied by at least one brake pad 8, 9 during the braking action;

[0175] . c) Transmitting the data detected by the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor 20 to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action;

[0176] . d) Feeding back the signal processed by the signal conversion and data processing control unit to an actuator of the brake caliper, selected from a hydraulic control unit and an electric control unit, to adjust the braking of the vehicle based on vehicle running parameters .

[0177] . This method enables accurate adjustment of the vehicle braking, improving the safety and performance of the braking system.

[0178] . Thanks to the described embodiments, it is understood howthe configuration of the brake caliper 1 for a disc brake 2 with a caliper body 3 designed to straddle a brake disc 4 allows direct measurement of the braking forces . One of the innovative aspects of this design lies in the inclusion of at least one sensor seat 19 near the abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18 of the caliper body 3. This seat houses a force detection sensor 20 which measures the force exerted by the brake pads 8, 9 directly on the caliper body 3. This direct measurement approach eliminates inaccuracies associated with indirect measurement methods, such as those based on strain gauges or variations in hydraulic pressure .

[0179] . By positioning the sensor 20 near the abutment surfaces 15, 16, 17, 18, the system ensures that the sensor captures the actual forces exerted during braking. This configuration improves the accuracy and reliability of braking force measurements, leading to better vehicle control and safety. The direct measurement of tangential forces enables precise calculation of the braking torque, improving the overall performance of the braking system.LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERSBrake caliperDisc brakeCaliper bodyBrake discBraking bandBraking surfaceBraking surfaceFirst vehicle-side brake padSecond wheel-side brake padPushing deviceBrake pad plateBrake pad friction materialPad support surfacePad support surfaceAbutment surfaceAbutment surfaceAbutment surfaceAbutment surfaceSensor seatProximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor Brake pad support insertInsert support surfaceSensor support surface24 Flat shaped pad support portion of the insert25 Cylindrical insert extension26 C-shaped insert portion extending to embrace the pad or plate edge27 Insert portion extending to embrace the pad or plate edge and rear portion of the pad or plate28 Hole on cylindrical insert extension29 End of cylindrical insert extension30 Through sensor connection seat31 Insert extension for caliper body fixing32 Insert connection seats33 Pins, screws for insert-to-caliper body connection34 Insert ventilation holes35 Caliper body shoulder forming said pad support surface36 Pad housing pocket37 Locking seatSYMBOLSX-X Brake disc rotation axisA-A Axial directionR-R Radial directionC-C Circumferential directionT-T Tangential directionFtang Direct load along the tangential direction or direct loadorthogonal to caliper centre planeFltang Friction action exerted by the outer pad (wheel-side pad) on the brake discF2tang Friction action exerted by the inner pad (vehicle-side pad) on the brake discFpist Action of the pad pushing elements bearing against the braking surface of the brake discReff Radius between brake disc rotation centre (brake disc rotation axis X-X) and centre of action of the brake pad Tdisc Braking torque exerted on the brake discFz Action on the proximity or remote (direct) force detection sensor

Claims

CLAIMS1. A brake caliper (1) for a disc brake (2) , comprising a caliper body (3) suitable for being arranged straddling a brake disc (4 ) ; wherein said brake disc (4 ) defines an axial direction (A-A) parallel to the rotation axis (X-X) of the brake disc (4) , a radial direction (R-R) perpendicular to the axial direction (A-A) , and a circumferential direction (C-C) orthogonal at one point to said axial direction (A-A) and said radial direction (R-R) , as well as a tangential direction (T-T) perpendicular to both said axial direction (A-A) and said radial direction (R-R) , whereinsaid brake disc comprises a braking band (5) having opposite braking surfaces ( 6, 7 ) ;said brake caliper ( 1) comprises a first vehicle-side brake pad (8) and a second wheel-side brake pad (9) which, under the bias of at least one thrust device ( 10) accommodated in said caliper body (3) , are adapted to abut against said opposite braking surfaces ( 6, 7) to apply a braking action to a vehicle; whereineach of said first and second brake pads ( 8, 9) comprises a pad plate (11) and pad friction material (12) supported by said pad plate ( 11 ) , whereineach of said first and second brake pads ( 8, 9) comprises opposed pad support surfaces ( 13, 14) to support each of said first and second brake pads ( 8, 9) against said caliper body (3) ;said caliper body (3) comprises abutment surfaces ( 15, 16, 17, 18)adapted to receive the support of said first and second brake pads (8, 9) during the braking action;characterized in thatclose to at least one abutment surface ( 15 or 16 or 17 or 18 ) , said caliper body (3) comprises at least one sensor seat ( 19) which houses at least one remote or proximity direct-detection sensor (20) for detecting a force applied by at least one pad f said first and second brake pads (8, 9) to said at least one abutment surface (15 or 16 or 17 or 18) .

2. A brake caliper ( 1) according to claim 1, whereinsaid brake caliper ( 1) comprises at least one pad support insert (21) interposed between said pad support surface (13 or 14 ) and said abutment surface (15 or 16 or 17 or 18) ; and wherein said at least one pad support insert (21) comprises an insert support surface (22) which follows said pad support surface (13 or 14) so as to receive at least part of the action that said brake pad ( 8 or 9) applies against said caliper body (3) during the braking action of the vehicle; and wherein said at least one pad support insert (21 ) comprises a sensor support surface (23) which transmits said at least part of the action that said brake pad (8 or 9) applies against said caliper body (3) influencing remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) .

3. A brake caliper ( 1) according to claim 1 or 2, whereinat least part of the action that said brake pad (8 or 9) applies against said caliper body (3) during the braking action of the vehicle is a direct load according to the tangential direction (T-T) or the direction orthogonal to a caliper centerline plane comprising a radial direction (R-R) and an axial direction (A-A) and this tangential action (Ftang) is transmitted and detected by said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) .

4. A brake caliper (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, whereinthe pad support surface (13 or 14) is flat and the insert support surface (22) is flat, and both are orthogonal to the tangential direction (T-T) or to the tangential direction (T-T) orthogonal to a caliper centerline plane comprising a radial direction (R-R) and an axial direction (A-A) .

5. A brake caliper (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, whereinsaid at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is positioned on the side of the caliper body (3) at the outlet of the brake disc (4 ) for detecting the braking action during the forward travel of the vehicle;or whereinsaid at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor(20) consists of two sensors positioned on the side of the caliper body (3) at the outlet of the brake disc (4 ) for detecting the braking action of both vehicle-side and wheel-side brake pads ( 8, 9) during the forward travel of the vehicle .

6. A brake caliper (1 ) according to any one of claims 4 to 5, wherein said pad support insert (21) comprises a first surface, or sensor support surface (23) , adapted to abut against said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) , and a second surface, or insert support surface (22 ) , adapted to abut against said tangential disc outlet surface of at least one of the first vehicle-side brake pad (8 ) and the second wheel-side brake pad (9) during a braking action.

7. A brake caliper (1 ) according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the sensor support surface (23) of said pad support insert (21) is obtained at the end of a cylindrical insert extension (25) ;or whereinthe sensor support surface (23) of said pad support insert (21) is obtained at the end of a cylindrical insert extension (25) , for reaching said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) accommodated in said sensor seat ( 19) , which sensor seat ( 19) is shaped like a pocket obtained in the caliper body (3) to move away from the brake pad (8 or 9) and the brake disc (4) and reduce the bias of the temperature generated by the braking action on the sensor.

8. A brake caliper ( 1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the following features are provided, alternatively or in combination :- said pad support insert (21 ) comprises a flat shaped pad support portion ( 24 ) ;- said pad support insert (21) comprises a cylindrical extension (25) extending from a flat shaped pad support portion (24) ;-the flat shaped pad support portion (24 ) of said pad support insert (21) comprises extensions extending to embrace the pad or plate edge (11) , resulting in a C-shaped portion (26) ;-the pad support portion (24) of said pad support insert (21) comprises extensions extending to embrace the pad or plate edge (11) forming an insert portion (27 ) resting on the back of the pad or plate;- said pad support insert (21) comprises a cylindrical extension (25) extending from a flat shaped pad support portion (24) ; said cylindrical extension (25) comprises a hole (28) to accommodate a connection device, such as a fixing screw, for the connection with the caliper body (3) ;- said pad support insert (21) comprises a cylindrical extension (25) extending from a flat shaped pad support portion (24) ; said cylindrical extension (25) comprises a cylindrical extension end (29) and said end (29) has a smaller diameter than the diameter of said cylindrical extension (25) ; said cylindrical extension end (29) isinserted into a sensor connection seat (30) provided in said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) ;- said pad support insert (21) comprises a cylindrical extension (25) extending from a flat shaped pad support portion (24) ; said cylindrical extension (25) comprises a cylindrical extension end (29) and said end (29) has a smaller diameter than the diameter of said cylindrical extension (25) ; said cylindrical extension end (29) is inserted into a sensor connection seat (30) ; said sensor connection seat (30) is a through-hole;- said pad support portion (24) of said pad support insert (21) comprises a transverse extension for fixing to the caliper body (31) ; - said pad support insert (21) comprises insert connection seats (32) for connecting said pad support insert (21 ) to said caliper body (3) by means of connection devices (32) such as screws or plugs and bolts; - said pad support portion (24) of said pad support insert (21) comprises a transverse extension for fixing to the caliper body (31) ; said transverse fixing extension (31) is a piece separated from said insert (21 ) and said transverse fixing extension (31) is partially accommodated in a locking seat (37 ) provided in said pad support portion ( 24 ) ;-the pad support portion (24) of said pad support insert (21) comprises insert ventilation holes (34 ) for ventilating the insert (21) and reducing the heat that reaches the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) from the brake pad (8, 9) and the brake disc(4 ) , and for lightening the brake caliper (1) ;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is at least partially accommodated in said seat of the caliper body (3) ; - said sensor seat in said pad support insert (21) is a pocket (19) ; - said seat of the caliper body (3) is a pocket-shaped seat having an access opening for said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) oriented in the radial direction (R-R) ;-said sensor seat in said pad support insert (21 ) is a pocket (19) having an opening for the connection with said pad support insert (22) ;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is at least partially accommodated in said insert seat (21) ;- said sensor seat in said pad support insert (21) is adapted to arrange said remote or proximity (direct) detection sensor (20) to detect an action (Ftang) of the pad directed according to the tangential direction or directed according to the direction orthogonal to the caliper centerline plane .

9. A brake caliper (1 ) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising, alternatively or in combination, one of the following features :- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is a load cell;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is aload cell of the piezoelectric type;-said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is of the HBK™ 1-CLP / 26KN type with a capacity of 26KN, a thickness of 3.5 mm, capable of an overload of 30KN and a preload of 5.2KN, capable of withstanding a bending action of 35Nm;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) has a bandwidth above 20KHz .

10. A brake caliper ( 1) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising, alternatively or in combination, one of the following features :- said caliper body (3) comprises at least one caliper body shoulder (35) defining a pad accommodating pocket (36) in the caliper body (3) which accommodates at least one brake pad (8, 9) ;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is positioned in said shoulder (35) ;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is positioned in two shoulders (35) positioned in the caliper body (3) on the disc outlet side thereof;- said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is positioned in three shoulders (35) of the caliper body (3) , two positioned in the caliper body (3) on the disc outlet side thereof and one positioned in the caliper body (3) on the disc inlet side thereof ;said remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is positioned in all shoulders (35) of the caliper body (3) adapted to receive the support of the brake pads ( 8, 9) during the braking action in the forward or reverse travel of the vehicle .

11. A method of mounting a brake caliper (1) for a disc brake (2) , comprising a caliper body (3) , a first vehicle-side brake pad (8) , a second wheel-side brake pad ( 9) , and at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) , the method comprising the following steps :• a) Housing said at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) close to at least one abutment surface ( 15, 16, 17, 18) provided in the caliper (3) where at least one of said pads (8 or 9) abuts during a braking action;• b) Ensuring that the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is capable of detecting the force applied by at least one brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action;• c) Inserting each brake pad (8, 9) into the respective seats of the caliper body (3) so that pad support surfaces (13, 14 ) thereof face the abutment surfaces ( 15, 16, 17, 18 ) of the caliper body (3) ;12. A method of mounting a brake caliper (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the method comprises further steps :before step (c)d) Inserting at least one pad support insert (21) between the pad support surface (13, 14) and the abutment surface (15, 16, 17, 18) of the caliper body (3) ;f) Ensuring that the pad support insert (21) comprises an insert support surface (22) which follows the pad support surface (13, 14 ) and a sensor support surface (23) which transmits the force applied by the brake pad (8, 9) to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) ;g) Fixing the pad support insert (21) so that the force applied by the brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action is completely transmitted to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) .

13. A method of mounting a brake caliper ( 1) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein the method comprises further steps :• d) Inserting at least one pad support insert (21) between the pad support surface ( 13, 14) and the abutment surface (15, 16, 17, 18 ) of the caliper body (3) ;• e) Ensuring that the pad support insert (21 ) comprises an insert support surface (22) which follows the pad support surface (13, 14 ) and a sensor support surface (23) which transmits the tangential force, i . e . , directed in the tangential (T-T) or circumferential (C-C) direction, applied by the brake pad ( 8, 9) to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) ;• f) Fixing the pad support insert (21) so that the tangential (T-T) or circumferential (C-C) force applied by the brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action is completely transmitted to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) .

14. Use of a brake caliper (1 ) for a disc brake (2) , comprising a caliper body (3) , a first vehicle-side brake pad (8) , a second wheelside brake pad (9) , and at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) , to calculate the braking action, wherein the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is connected to a signal conversion and data processing control unit, the method comprising the following steps :or a) Housing said at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) close to at least one abutment surface ( 15, 16, 17, 18) provided in the caliper (3) where at least one of said pads (8 or 9) abuts during a braking action;or b) Ensuring that the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is capable of detecting the tangential force applied by at least one brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action;or c) Transmitting the data detected by the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action.

15. Use of a brake caliper (1 ) according to claim 14, wherein themethod comprises further steps :or d) Inserting at least one pad support insert (21) between the pad support surface ( 13, 14) and the abutment surface (15, 16, 17, 18 ) of the caliper body (3) ;or e) Ensuring that the pad support insert (21 ) comprises an insert support surface (22) which follows the pad support surface (13, 14 ) and a sensor support surface (23) which transmits the tangential force applied by the brake pad ( 8, 9) to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) .

16. Use of a brake caliper (1 ) according to claim 14, wherein the method comprises further steps :or f) Fixing the pad support insert (21) so that the tangential force applied by the brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action is completely transmitted to the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) ;or g) Transmitting the data detected by the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action.

17. Use of a brake caliper (1) for a disc brake (2) , comprising the steps ofProviding a brake caliper according to any one of the caliper claims 1 to 10comprising a caliper body (3) , a first vehicle-side brake pad (8) , a second wheel-side brake pad ( 9) , and at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) , to adjust the braking of the vehicle, wherein the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is connected to a signal conversion and data processing control unit, the method comprising the following steps :• a) Housing said at least one remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) close to at least one abutment surface ( 15, 16, 17, 18) provided in the caliper (3) where at least one of said pads (8 or 9) abuts during a braking action;• b) Ensuring that the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) is capable of detecting the tangential force applied by at least one brake pad (8, 9) during the braking action;• c) Transmitting the data detected by the remote or proximity (direct) force detection sensor (20) to the signal conversion and data processing control unit to calculate the braking action;• d) Feeding back the signal processed by the signal conversion and data processing control unit to a brake caliper actuator, selected from a hydraulic control unit and an electric control unit, to adjust the braking of the vehicle according to the travel parameters of the vehicle .

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