Self-Adjusting Handbrake Mechanism Design

Abstract

Due to the wear of the brake linings of the rear brake, as well as due to the stretching of the steel rope of the handbrake control during the exploitation of the vehicle, the transmission mechanism of the handbrake increases the predefined clearances, that is, the free travel of the control lever increases. This free travel can increase to the extent that it compromises the normal functioning of the braking system. For this reason, all parking brake systems contain backlash adjustment mechanisms. On most vehicles, this adjustment is done manually, which means that the vehicle is periodically taken out of service for servicing. For this reason, the application of various mechanisms for self- adjustment of the handbrake, during the actual exploitation of the vehicle, began. This paper presents the process of design and construction of an innovative mechanism for continuous self adjustment of the handbrake, without withdrawing the vehicle from operation.