Sliding Coupling Means for Disc Brake Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing drive connections for braking discs are complex and time-consuming to assemble and disassemble, and require a large number of mechanical pieces, which complicates the process and limits the ease of replacing the braking band independently of the support bell.
Innovation Solution
A braking disc design featuring a drive connection with sliding coupling means, such as plates with wings and slots, that can alternate between fastening and release positions, allowing for axial movement and reducing the number of mechanical pieces required, enabling quick assembly and disassembly with simplified force transmission.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional drive connections with multiple plates and screw couplings are used, then the braking disc can be assembled, but the number of mechanical pieces increases and the assembling complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple separate components (plates and screw couplings) into a single integrated coupling element. This coupling element features a body with a first portion that engages the bell and a second portion that engages the band, eliminating the need for multiple discrete parts and simplifying the overall assembly structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is designed with distinct functional segments: a body portion for structural support, a first engagement portion for connecting to the bell, and a second engagement portion for connecting to the band. This segmentation allows each part to perform its specific function while remaining part of a unified component.
2Reliability
If traditional drive connections with multiple plates and screw couplings are used, then the braking disc can be assembled, but the assembling time increases
Solution Approach 1:
By integrating multiple functions into a single coupling element, the number of assembly steps is reduced. Instead of assembling multiple plates and screw couplings separately, the unified coupling element can be installed as one component, significantly reducing assembling time.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is pre-designed and pre-configured with all necessary engagement features (first engagement portion for the bell, second engagement portion for the band). This preliminary preparation allows for quick installation without requiring multiple adjustment or assembly steps during the actual assembly process.
3Ease of repair
If the braking band is worn and needs replacement, then the braking disc must be disassembled, but the complex drive connection makes disassembling difficult and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The unified coupling element simplifies the disassembly process by providing a single component to remove. Instead of dealing with multiple plates and screw couplings that must be undone in sequence, the technician can remove the single coupling element to access and replace the braking band.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element incorporates movable engagement features that allow for easy insertion and removal. The engagement portions are designed to accommodate axial movements and can be quickly coupled or decoupled from the bell and band, enabling rapid replacement of the braking band.
4Reliability
If a drive connection with many mechanical pieces is used, then the braking disc can be assembled, but the ease of operation decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The single integrated coupling element dramatically simplifies the operation of assembling and disassembling the braking disc. Technicians need to handle and manipulate only one component instead of multiple separate parts, reducing the complexity of the operational procedure and minimizing the risk of errors.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling element is designed to perform multiple functions within a single component: it provides structural connection between the bell and band, transmits braking torque, maintains proper spacing, and allows for easy assembly and disassembly. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for multiple specialized components.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution significantly simplifies the assembly and disassembly process, reduces the number of mechanical pieces, and allows for efficient torque transmission while maintaining a wide contact surface, thereby decreasing local stresses and enabling easier replacement of the braking band.
Implementation Method 1
The coupling means (41) are slidingly associated to at least one of the first connecting means (31) of the band (30) and to at least one of the second connecting means (21) of the bell (20)
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a braking disc comprising a braking band and a support bell. The band comprises first connecting means and the bell comprises second connecting means adapted to face the first connecting means. The disc further comprises coupling means, each of which is slidingly associated to one of either said first or said second connecting means and is adapted to alternatively take either a fastening position or a release position. When the coupling means are in said fastening position mutually fasten the band and the bell in the axial direction. On the other hand, when the coupling means are in said release position, they allow a mutual movement between the band and the bell in the axial direction.