Abstract: A disc brake for a vehicle such as a commercial vehicle, wherein the brake rotor extends from a hub end of an axle inboard a sufficient distance to place the friction surface of the rotor and the brake caliper outside the envelope of a wheel mounted at the end of the axle. The placement of the rotor friction surface and the caliper outside the envelope of the wheel enhances brake cooling, makes the brake more readily accessible for inspection and maintenance without significant vehicle disassembly, and permits the rotor outer diameter to be extended beyond the diameter of the wheel rim, thereby lowering brake components stresses and permitting use of lighter, lower cost brake components.

Abstract: An anti-lock braking system sensor arrangement for use with an air disc brake on an axle, particularly a commercial vehicle axle, wherein a wheel speed sensor is located outside a brake rotor envelope and a sensor exciter is located on an inward-extending portion of the axle hub or on the brake rotor, for example, adjacent to the junction of the rotor hat and its friction portion. The sensor exciter may be integrally formed with the axle hub or the rotor, or may be a separate exciter component affixed thereto. The sensor may be located adjacent to the exciter ring by locating the sensor in an axle flange or in a hole in the air disc brake caliper's mounting bracket. By locating the sensor and sensor exciter in this manner, sensor longevity is enhanced by improved cooling, and potential interference between the sensor and the air disc brake components is eliminated.

Abstract: An adapter plate for a caliper disc brake assembly is attached to the inboard side of the axle flange of a vehicle axle housing. The adapter plate is generally C-shaped to allow mounting around the central region of the axle housing. The inboard positioning of the adapter plate allows mounting of larger brake calipers within a confined space. The caliper is connected to the axle housing by the adapter plate for the purpose of positioning the caliper relative to the rotor and resisting the torque developed by the action of the brake pads on the rotor. In order to adjust the lateral position of the caliper, the adapter plate, in one embodiment, has a pilot surface which allows the axle flange to be recessed within the adapter plate. In another embodiment, a secondary adapter plate bridges over the opening in the adapter plate to allow mounting of the adapter assembly to the entire bolt circle of the axle flange.