Good sense
Motors can be designed to operate with or without the use of sensors. In sensorless designs at startup a software algorithm determines rotor position and as a result maximum torque is not immediately available and motor startup is slower. In applications such as fans and pumps this is usually not detrimental, however in applications such as electric bicyles or delivery carts it is preferable to opt for sensors to ensure immediate responsiveness at startup, regardless of conditions.
Gearing-up
Depending on the required output torque, the wheel hub motor can be combined with a planetary gearbox without greatly increasing the motor build width. Typically a one stage planetary gearbox would only add 20-25mm to the build width.
Currently we can offer motors with an output range of 25-500W operating with a 12-48V DC supply. The minimum build width is 40mm and the minimum diameter is 80mm. The size is ultimately dependent on the desired output characteristics and available width.
High efficiency & low cost
The motors are designed to be highly energy-efficient and maintenance-free and are commutated electronically. To achieve this, motor components are precision engineered and only premium quality bearings are used. Despite this, when taking the whole life-time cost into consideration, they are more economical than other offerings. Efficiency rates of between 70% to 90% (including motor controller) are readily achievable.
In comparison to radial flux wheel hub motors, no stator or rotor steel laminations are required and coil winding is carried out very efficiently. A comparison of required production tooling shows that only about 10% to 15% of the costs associated with radial flux motors are required for our axial flux design.
In addition the demands on the motor housing are far less onerous, resulting in further cost savings and a less complex component design. For these reasons our motor technology is economically viable for applications requiring as few as 500 units per annum.
