Abstract: A brake monitoring system generally includes a plurality of brake monitors mounted on each of a plurality of brake actuators. Each brake monitor generally comprises a sleeve mounted to a push rod which moves relative to a stone shield on the brake actuator. The displacement of the sleeve relative to the stone shield is measured to determine the stroke of the brake actuator. This information is sent via an RF transmitter to a controller which determines the condition of each of the brakes.

Abstract: A brake monitoring system generally includes a plurality of brake monitors mounted on each of a plurality of brake actuators. Each brake monitor generally comprises a sleeve mounted to a push rod which moves relative to a stone shield on the brake actuator. The displacement of the sleeve relative to the stone shield is measured to determine the stroke of the brake actuator. This information is sent via an RF transmitter to a controller which determines the condition of each of the brakes.

Abstract: A brake monitoring system generally includes a plurality of brake monitors mounted on each of a plurality of brake actuators. Each brake monitor generally comprises a sleeve mounted to a push rod which moves relative to a stone shield on the brake actuator. The displacement of the sleeve relative to the stone shield is measured to determine the stroke of the brake actuator. This information is sent via an RF transmitter to a controller which determines the condition of each of the brakes.

Abstract: A brake actuator includes an inelastically deformed separate clamp band holding the brake actuator housing portions together. The actuator is formed by cutting the clamp band from a roll of thin stainless steel. The cut portions are formed to have an L shaped section. The short L end is then placed on one of the flanges of the brake actuator housing members. The other end of the clamp band is then deformed inwardly to secure the brake actuator housings together. The invention results in a relatively low cost clamp band. The clamp band has particular application on the service side of the spring brake actuator, although it would also be useful on the emergency side.

Abstract: A small envelope is achieved for an inelastically deformed connection between a spring cover and a central housing in a spring brake actuator. The connection is deformed radially inwardly and then extends radially outwardly from the radially inwardly extending portion. This eliminates the radially outwardly extending portion and flanges as are typically utilized in the prior art. Thus, a much smaller envelope is provided. In preferred embodiments of this invention, a seal groove is positioned axially adjacent a securement groove in the central housing. A seal is positioned in the seal groove to ensure an air-tight seal. In addition, a unique diaphragm guiding structure is incorporated into one embodiment of this invention.