LINEAR FRICTION WELDED BRAKE SHOE ASSEMBLY

摘要

The method of this invention for assembling vehicle brake shoes includes the use of linear friction welding. Two generally planar web members having arcuate edges are precisely aligned. Each of the web members preferably includes a series of projections along an outer arcuate edge. A table member that has a curvature corresponding to the outward arcuate edge of the web members is placed in contact with the projections along the outer arcuate edge of the web members. The webs and the table are moved relative to each other, under load, to cause an increase in temperature within the metal material of the webs and the table. After the temperature is sufficiently increased, but before the material reaches its melting temperature, the relative motion is stopped and the web members are precisely aligned with the table member. Then the load is increased and the table is forced against the web members. The projections are then deformed, a flash results, and the web members are fixedly joined to the table member.