The Difference between Brushed Motors And Brushless Motors in Electric Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs offer people with physical disabilities and older adults the opportunity for greater independence and improved quality of life, and one of the key components that determines the performance and efficiency of an electric wheelchair is the type of motor used. Let’s discuss and compare the differences between brush motors and brushless motors in electric wheelchairs.

What are the limitations of brushed motors?

Brush motors have been widely used in electric wheelchairs for many years. They consist of rotors, brushes and commutators. When current passes through the brushes and commutator, the rotor rotates, providing the required propulsion. However, this traditional motor design has some limitations.

•  Wear and loss: The brushes in brushed motors experience friction and wear and require regular maintenance. Over time, brushes may need to be replaced, resulting in increased downtime and operating costs.

• Limited service life: Brushed motors have a limited service life due to the physical contact between the brushes and the commutator. Constant wear and tear between these components will eventually cause them to fail and require periodic replacement.

• Lower efficiency: Compared with brushless motors, brushed motors are less efficient. The friction caused by the brushes generates heat, causing energy loss and reducing the overall energy efficiency of the motor.

What are the advantages of brushless motors?

Brushless motors have become an excellent alternative to brushed motors in power wheelchairs. These motors use electronic commutation instead of brushes and commutators, which offers several advantages.

• Improved durability: Brushless motors do not require regular maintenance and replacement because no brushes are used. Brushless motors last significantly longer, ensuring greater reliability and reduced downtime.

• Improved efficiency: Brushless motors run more efficiently due to the elimination of brush friction. Electronic commutation is used to minimize energy loss, improve the battery life of the electric wheelchair, and extend the driving mileage.

• Quieter operation: Brushless motors produce less noise. There is no physical contact between the brushes and the commutator, reducing mechanical vibration and providing a smoother, quieter ride.

• Higher power-to-weight ratio: Brushless motors are generally more compact and lighter while providing comparable or even higher power output. This feature contributes to the maneuverability and portability of the electric wheelchair.

• Precise control: Brushless motors provide precise control of speed and acceleration, allowing users to easily cope with various terrains and obstacles. The motor's response can be adjusted to the user's preference, enhancing the overall driving experience.

In summary, the transition from brushed to brushless motors represents a major technological advance. Brushless motors outperform brushed motors in terms of durability, efficiency, noise level, power-to-weight ratio, and control accuracy. These advantages help improve the user experience, extend battery life, and reduce maintenance costs while increasing the reliability of the electric wheelchair. With the continuous development of technology, brushless motors are expected to become the standard choice for electric wheelchairs, further improving the mobility and independence of physically disabled people and the elderly, and helping them move towards a better life.