초록 ▼

A brake lining wear indicator utilizes a temperature sensor assembly embedded in a brake lining of a drum brake assembly. The temperature sensor assembly includes two temperature sensors with a first temperature sensor located at a first distance X from the wear surface of the brake lining and a sec

A brake lining wear indicator utilizes a temperature sensor assembly embedded in a brake lining of a drum brake assembly. The temperature sensor assembly includes two temperature sensors with a first temperature sensor located at a first distance X from the wear surface of the brake lining and a second temperature sensor located at a second distance X+d from the wear surface. A timing device measures the time period for the first temperature sensor to reach a first predetermined temperature and measures the time period for the second temperature sensor to reach a second predetermined temperature. The remaining useful thickness of the brake lining is determined based on the ratio of the respective time periods. Thus, the indicator provides a time-temperature based determination of when the brake linings should be replaced. This determination is easily monitored during the operation of the vehicle and can be made without requiring a physical measurement or visual inspection of the thickness of the brake lining on each brake shoe.

대표청구항 ▼

[ We claim:] [15.] A brake assembly comprising:a brake lining supported by a backing plate and presenting a wear surface;a first sensor for measuring a first brake lining temperature; second sensor for measuring a second brake lining temperature, said first and second sensors being embedded in said

[ We claim:] [15.] A brake assembly comprising:a brake lining supported by a backing plate and presenting a wear surface;a first sensor for measuring a first brake lining temperature; second sensor for measuring a second brake lining temperature, said first and second sensors being embedded in said brake lining at different distances respectively from said wear surface; and a processor for determining brake lining thickness based on a comparison of the first brake lining temperature to the second brake lining temperature.