摘要 |
A friction pad for use in a friction element used in a friction engagement device such as a brake or clutch, The friction element includes a carrier and a plurality of friction pads circumferentially spaced about the carrier, The pads may have a modular construction whereby pad portions are releasably secured to support portions. The pads may also be releasably secured to the carrier. Various friction pad constructions are contemplated including constructions in which the secondary support portion includes a membrane and the primary support portion includes a cylindrical member extending between the membrane and the friction pads. A continuous friction pad ring may be substituted for the discrete friction pads, The carrier may be provided with locator pins in the pad receiving bores to orient the pads properly. The carrier may have cuts and grooves formed therein to provide a flexible or even beam mounted support for the friction pads. The friction element may also have a multimode configuration and may include smart structures.
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