Multiple disk brake control

Abstract

A brake control arrangement for use with a multiple disk brake system having a plurality of disk brake actuators which exert a braking force in relation to the fluid pressure presented to a service braking portion contained therein. A handle valve is operable over a range of travel for delivering a braking fluid pressure to be directed to a first input of one of a purality of shuttle valves. This braking fluid pressure, however, is first directed through one of a plurality of flow paths selected by a selector valve arrangement. The selector valve arrangement can be sequenced to direct the initial braking fluid pressure through a different one of the plurality of flow paths upon receiving a sequencing count signal transmitted from a counter valve arrangement. A pilot operated relay valve has a pilot portion which receives the braking fluid pressure and opens the relay valve when the braking fluid pressure reaches a predetermined value. The fluid pressure transmitted through the relay valve is proportional to the braking fluid pressure and is directed to a second input of the plurality of shuttle valves. The shuttle valve outputs are connected to the service braking portions of the disk brake actuators and serve to transmit the higher of the two input fluid pressures to these service braking portions. The counter valve arrangement transmits the sequencing count signal when the parking brake portions of the disk brake actuators have been released.