The spelling of the word "calliper brake" can be a bit tricky, but its pronunciation is easier when using IPA phonetic transcription. The word "calliper" is spelled with two L's, indicating the second syllable is elongated. It is pronounced /ˈkæl.ɪ.pər/. "Brake" is spelled the same way as it sounds, but it's pronounced as /breɪk/. When combined, the word "calliper brake" refers to a type of braking system commonly used in bicycles and other vehicles.
A calliper brake, also known as a caliper brake or simply a caliper, is a type of mechanical braking system commonly used in vehicles and bicycles. It is designed to slow down or stop the rotation of wheels by exerting friction on the surface of the wheel or tire.
The calliper brake consists of a pair of brake arms or calipers that are positioned on either side of the wheel or tire. These arms are connected by a mechanism that allows them to move in unison. When pressure is applied to the brake lever or pedal, it activates a cable or hydraulic system that causes the brake arms to squeeze against the wheel or tire. This generates friction and, consequently, slows down or stops the rotational movement.
One of the key advantages of calliper brakes is their simplicity and ease of maintenance. They are relatively lightweight, cost-effective, and widely available. They also provide good stopping power and are suitable for most road and off-road applications. However, calliper brakes may not be as effective in wet or muddy conditions, as the braking surface can become slippery and reduce overall stopping ability. Additionally, they may require periodic adjustments to maintain optimal performance.
In summary, calliper brakes are mechanical braking systems used in various applications to slow down or stop wheel rotation. They consist of brake arms or calipers that exert friction on the wheel or tire when pressure is applied. Despite their simplicity and versatility, their effectiveness can be compromised in adverse weather conditions.
The word "calliper brake" has a relatively straightforward etymology.
The term "calliper" originates from the Greek word "kállos", meaning beautiful or good, and the Latin word "parare", meaning to prepare or arrange. In mechanical engineering, a caliper refers to a device used to measure the distance between two points or to grasp and hold objects firmly.
The word "brake" comes from the Middle English word "brak", which means a device used to slow down or stop the motion of a vehicle or machine.
When combining these two terms, a "calliper brake" refers to a type of braking system that utilizes calipers to squeeze against a wheel's rotor or disc to create friction and slow down or stop the wheel's rotation.
Overall, the etymology of "calliper brake" points to its usage in mechanical engineering to describe a braking system that uses calipers.