Patent ID: 7114596
Filing Date: 2006-10-03
Classification: F16D

Abstract:
1. A brake system with an integral position sensor, comprising: a) a brake drum having a cylindrical surface; b) a brake shoe having a pad mounting surface; c) a brake lining pad connected to said pad mounting surface of said shoe, said pad and shoe being concentric with said cylindrical surface, said shoe and pad being movable between a disengaged position wherein said pad is spaced apart from said cylindrical surface to an engaged position wherein said pad is in forcible engagement with said cylindrical surface; d) an actuator coupled to the brake shoe for moving the shoe and an associated pad between the disengaged position and the engaged position; and e) a position sensor mounted on a surface outside the brake drum such that said position sensor is shielded from heat and dust generated by said brake shoe and said brake drum, comprising a mechanical linkage that extends through an opening in said surface, said linkage includes a first end connected to said brake shoe and a second end connected to said sensor, wherein said position sensor is coupled directly to said brake shoe, said position sensor is arranged for sensing a change in position of the shoe relative to the position sensor when the brake shoe is moved between the disengaged and engaged positions and to thereby provide an indication of a condition of the brake system.