Automotive component weight savings and material conservation have become critically important as one begins to fully realize the limitations on the world's resources, especially with respect to fuels. A new disc brake concept has been developed specifically to meet these new automotive requirements and is particularly well suited for today's smaller and lighter vehicles.
The Series IV floating head disc brake is mounted directly to the steering knuckle, using two bolts which extend through sleeves without requiring the traditional brake anchor plate, thus saving both weight and material. Further weight savings in the brake are achieved by use of a two-piece construction which utilizes an aluminum housing, while, at the same time, simplifying front wheel bearing, disc and lining assembly service or replacement.
Since the brake floats on two sealed and lubricated sleeves, the brake sliding forces do not increase with service time or exposure to corrosive environments. Thus, problems due to increased sliding forces, which occasionally require servicing are eliminated.
The Series IV disc brake design originated at DBA, Division Technique, a brake design, development, and manufacturing concern in Paris, France, which is a Bendix subsidiary. It was further developed by Bendix Automotive Control Systems Group Engineering and Patons Brake Replacements, an Australian Licensee of Bendix in conjunction with DBA, thus utilizing a broad range of international brake design, development, and testing experience in a coordinated program. The culmination of this work has been customer acceptance and production of this design in Australia.
The extensive design, development, and testing program is described in detail and typical results are presented.