Liquid Cooled Brake Support Columns Reduce Pin Strain
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional liquid cooled disc brakes have solid rings that are heavy and require customization, leading to undue strain on pins and limited scalability.
Innovation Solution
The use of support columns between end plates to provide structural support, reducing strain on pins and allowing for a lightweight, scalable, and strong brake design.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If solid rings are used to encircle friction plates, then structural support is provided, but weight increases and scalability is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the solid ring structure into multiple discrete support columns spaced around the circumference. These columns provide the necessary structural support while significantly reducing the overall material required compared to a solid ring, thereby reducing weight while maintaining strength.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of uniformly distributing material throughout a solid ring, the support columns are strategically positioned at specific locations where structural support is most needed. This localized approach provides adequate support while minimizing unnecessary material and weight.
2Manufacturing precision
If solid rings are customized to brake diameter, then proper fit is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and time increase
Solution Approach 1:
The support columns are designed as universal components that can be used across different brake sizes and configurations. Rather than customizing entire rings for each brake diameter, the same column design can be adapted to various applications, significantly reducing manufacturing complexity and time while maintaining proper fit.
3Strength
If pins are used to provide structural support, then housing is supported, but pins experience undue strain from braking forces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces support columns as separate structural elements that work in conjunction with the pins. The columns bear the majority of the braking forces, allowing the pins to function primarily as mounting elements for the friction plates. This segmentation of functions reduces the strain on pins and improves their durability.
Data Source
AI summary
A liquid cooled brake is provided having an improved housing that provides strong yet lightweight structural support. The brake includes end plates disposed about a driven shaft and axially spaced from one another. A plurality of axially extending pins connect the end plates. A friction plate is coupled to the driven shaft for rotation therewith and is axially movable relative to the driven shaft. Another friction plate defines a fluid jacket and is coupled to the pins. The friction plate is fixed against rotation, but axially movable, relative to the pins. A pressure plate is configured for selective movement towards the friction plates. Support columns are disposed radially outwardly of each pin and fixed to the end plates The support columns prevent undue strain on the pins. Ventilated guards may also be located between each pair of columns to limit access to internal working components of the brake.