Disc Brake Pad Retention With Asymmetric Spring Alignment

The spring member includes an offset alignment feature (protrusion or recess) that is asymmetrically positioned relative to the spring member's centerline. This asymmetric feature corresponds to a matching alignment feature on the brake pad, creating a geometric constraint that allows correct assembly only when the brake pad is properly oriented with friction material facing the rotor receiving region. The asymmetric design ensures that incorrect orientation prevents assembly, thereby improving reliability without significantly increasing overall device complexity.

The alignment function is segmented as a distinct feature (protrusion or recess) on the spring member, separate from the spring's primary biasing function. This segmented approach allows the alignment feature to be integrated into the spring member's existing structure using standard manufacturing techniques such as stamping, punching, or molding, without requiring complex multi-step manufacturing processes. The alignment feature is a simple geometric element that can be added during normal spring member fabrication.

The single spring member incorporates offset alignment features (protrusions or recesses) at strategically positioned locations that correspond to alignment features on multiple brake pads. The asymmetric positioning of these alignment features ensures that each brake pad must be oriented correctly for its specific location on the caliper. This allows one spring member to retain multiple pads while maintaining orientation precision, as incorrect orientation of any pad prevents proper engagement with the spring member's alignment features.