Efficient reduction of brake dust generated by vehicles
The technology comprises a novel design of a brake dust filter hood, which in combination with a procedure efficiently captures brake dust generated by vehicles with disk brakes.
Challenge
About 85% of the traffic-related particulate matter is formed by tire, brake and road abrasion as well as by the whirling up of the dust layer on the roadways. Brake dust is classified as hazardous to health and is particularly dangerous in the air we breathe. In general, exhaust from Diesel and gasoline engines is regulated by European exhaust norms, which currently do not include brake dust. However, recent reports indicate that the reduction of brake dust generated by vehicles will become mendatory in near future. Due to the nature of brake discs and pads, the brake dust particles can contain extremely harmful substances (for example nickel, chromium and copper). Currently available active systems for brake dust collection usually worsen the energy balance of the vehicle and may be inefficient. Passive filter solution concepts cannot efficiently break the boundary layer near the brake disc, which can have a negative impact on the brake dust filtering. The filter hood enclosure can increase the thermal load on the brake disc, which is detrimental to durability and safety.
Our Solution
The present invention features a novel device and a method for the efficient collection and filtering of brake dust particles generated by vehicles, which are equipped with disc brakes. The filter hood design is specifically arranged with respect to the brake caliper and the brake pad. A distinct region of the brake dust collection device is surrounded by a gap limiting surface, which, together with the brake disc, limits a sealing gap. In this case, the gap limitation area of the brake dust collection hood can be a seal, which is arranged in a specific configuration towards the brake disc and the brake pad. The filter hood features an optimized design in relation to the overall sealing configuration, which supports the capture of air and the brake dust particles. In addition, it reduces the risk of brake dust particles not being collected by the filter hood. Moreover, the system enables an efficient detachment of the boundary layer together with the brake dust particles. The detached boundary layer is transported together with the brake dust toward a collection device, a filter and/or an adapted suction mechanism. According to the invention, the brake dust filter hood and its working mechanisms are even adapted to the gradual wear of the disc brake components.
Simplified scheme of a vehicle disc brake system and the brake dust filter hood according to the present invention and European patent application EP23186759.9. Source: adaptation after European patent application EP23186759.9.
Advantages
- Effective brake dust filtering without contact to moving parts
- Significantly enhanced brake dust filter efficiency compared to commercially available filter technologies
- No additional energy consumption
- Upgrade option for commercially available filter hoods for the overall filtering enhancement
- No negative impact on the cooling properties of brake discs
- Compatible with commercially available disc brake systems including ventilated brake discs
- Filter loading and regeneration adaptable to change intervalls of vehicle brake components
- Compatible with vehicles with Diesel, gasoline, electric and hydrogen drive technology
Applications
- Passenger cars, trucks, busses and motorcycles
- Rail vehicles
Development Status
The technology functionality has been successfully approved by calculations and simulations. Design drawings available. Prototype in development.
Patent Status
European patent application: EP23186759.9
References
Worldwide unique facility for the testing and optimization of vehicle aerodynamics and fluid mechanics: HUM wind tunnel
Contact
Dr. Mirza Mackovic
Patent Manager Technology
E-Mail: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Tel.: +49 551 30724 153
Reference: CPA-2469-FHBW
Tags: Automotive engineering, Physics and Technology & Software
