I've been studying brake calipers, and have come to the conclusion that there is a lot of friction lost between the actuation and the real friction it take to stop. A percentage mechanical advantage (leverage) is lost by the friction of all of the resistance in the cams and the levers binding. One thing I noticed is that on a floating caliper, once the lever is pulled, the whole caliper wants to shift slightly askew. This can be attributed to the anchor point of the cable is typically on the frame and not part of the caliper. Another point of binding and friction is the plungers are cylindrical with a domed head and with some wear in the caliper body it causes them to twist and lean when the rotary cam engages, putting things into a bind before linear motion starts. This is only compounded by the fact that the actuator arm is pulling from one side, making the pressure point off center.
One of the set ups that I haven't studied yet, is the POSI-STOP brake. Has any of you guys had one apart, and how does it work?
Anyway, I've come up with a few ideas to reduce friction involving ball bearings, and I think I will pursue this, just looking for some more input.
One of the set ups that I haven't studied yet, is the POSI-STOP brake. Has any of you guys had one apart, and how does it work?
Anyway, I've come up with a few ideas to reduce friction involving ball bearings, and I think I will pursue this, just looking for some more input.