Clutch or brake device formed of composite foam
View Patent ↗An improved clutch or brake device in which at least two members are mounted for relative rotation and engagement, the members having friction material rotatable therewith, and the friction material of the members having surfaces confronting each other, characterized in that the friction material has a solid density of greater than 30% and includes an open lattice of carbon ligaments forming a network of three dimensionally interconnected cells; and a pyrolytic carbon coating on the open lattice of carbon ligaments.
1. An improved clutch or brake device in which at least two members are mounted for relative rotation and engagement, the members having friction material rotatable therewith, and the friction material of the members having surfaces confronting each other, characterized in that the friction material has a solid density of greater than 30% and includes:
a) an open lattice of carbon ligaments forming a network of three dimensionally interconnected cells; and
b) a pyrolytic carbon coating on the open lattice of carbon ligaments.
2. The improved clutch or brake device of claim 1 , wherein the friction material defines a structure of interconnecting pores that allow hydraulic fluid to flow through the friction material.
3. The improved clutch or brake device of claim 2 , wherein the friction material has an essentially isotropic structure.
4. The improved clutch or brake device of claim 1 , wherein the open lattice of carbon ligaments consists essentially of amorphous carbon.