
In this column, engineers from C.I. Takiron. share their expert knowledge on micromotors (coreless motors, brushless motors, and gearheads). We hope you find this information useful when selecting motors for a wide range of applications, including medical devices, industrial tools, and optical equipment.
This guide provides a detailed explanation of the technical considerations for motor selection, aimed at product development engineers and design professionals. It addresses common questions such as, “I don’t know which motor to choose,” and “I want to understand the difference between coreless and brushless motors.”

Industrial motors are used as power sources for a wide range of equipment, including conveyor systems, robots, and medical equipment. However, with so many types available—such as DC motors, AC motors, and Brushless motors—it’s not uncommon for design and procurement personnel to struggle with the question, “How do I choose the right motor for my application?” Motor selection can result in an inability to achieve the required torque or rotational speed, which could lead to reduced equipment performance and increased costs. To choose the right product, it is important to understand the characteristics of each type and comprehensively compare factors such as output, size, durability, and control performance. In this article, we will outline the main types and characteristics of…

A dynamo is a direct-current generator that converts mechanical energy—such as rotational energy—into electrical energy. While they were once used as charging devices in automobiles, the basic principles of power generation are also applied in modern motors and regenerative systems. A motor is typically a device that uses electricity to generate rotational force. However, when its shaft is rotated by an external force, it can function as a generator, making it useful for regenerative braking, energy recovery, and small-scale power generation. In this article, we’ll explain how dynamos work, how they differ from alternators, and their relationship to motors, and we’ll cover key considerations for motor selection suitable for power generation and regenerative applications. Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation…

When selecting a motor control method for Brushless motors, some designers may wonder, “Which is more suitable: sensorless control or motors with encoders?” Since sensorless control eliminates the need for a position sensor, it is well-suited for miniaturization and cost reduction. However, position estimation can become difficult during low-speed operation or startup. Motors with encoders are well-suited for high-precision position and speed control, but it’s important to note that they tend to increase the number of components and cost. In this article, we will compare the mechanisms and differences between the two methods and explain how to select the control method best suited for your application from the perspectives of control accuracy, starting performance, reliability, and cost. Supervised by:…

This article was created by translating a Japanese article. In offices, factories, research facilities, and other settings, it’s important not only to prevent unauthorized entry but also to properly manage “who entered, when, and where.” However, relying solely on physical keys requires significant effort—not only to prevent loss, duplication, and forgetting to lock doors, but also to manage access for each user. Electric locks, which use electricity to control locking and unlocking, help solve these challenges. In this article, we’ll provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the types of electric locks and the benefits of installing them, as well as the mechanism of motorized locks—which offer high security—and key points to consider when selecting a system. Supervised by: C.I….

This article was created by translating a Japanese article. An actuator is a drive device that converts energy—such as electrical or pneumatic power—into mechanical motion to operate equipment. It is used not only in factory automation systems but also for locking and unlocking automatic doors and security doors. In security doors, actuators work in conjunction with access control systems to operate the locking mechanism based on authentication results. However, selecting an actuator without understanding its types and mechanisms may result in insufficient force or durability. In this article, we will explain the mechanisms and types of actuators, their main applications, how they are used in security doors, and key points to consider when selecting them. Supervised by: C.I….

This article was created by translating a Japanese article. A motor’s power consumption affects not only electricity costs but also the heat generation by the equipment and battery runtime. However, many people likely wonder, “How is it calculated?” or “Why does power consumption vary even among motors with the same output?” In reality, power consumption varies depending on various factors, including voltage, electric current, load, motor efficiency, and operating conditions. In this article, we’ll explain the factors that determine a motor’s power consumption, how to calculate it, and energy saving measures, as well as how to approach power consumption for power tools and key points for motor selection. Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices Sales Group This…

This article was created by translating a Japanese article. A servo motor is a type of motor capable of performing high-precision motor control for position, speed, and angle. It is used in a wide range of applications, from industrial robots and machine tools to hobbyist projects such as radio-controlled vehicles and robot kits. However, many people likely have questions such as, “How are they different from ordinary motors?” “Why can they move so precisely?” and “How do I choose the right product for my application?” To use them effectively, it’s important to understand their basic mechanisms and characteristics and to identify the performance required for your specific application. In this article, we’ll provide a clear and easy-to-understand explanation of…

A hollow motor is a motor with a through-hole in the center of its rotating shaft. Since cables, piping, shafts, and other components can be routed through the hollow section, it improves wiring and piping routing in confined spaces, leading to compact motors and greater design flexibility. When performing motor selection, it is important to consider not only the hollow diameter but also the required torque, rotational speed, size, and other factors based on the equipment’s specifications. In this article, we provide an easy-to-understand explanation of the structure of hollow motors, their differences from standard motors, their benefits and precautions, main applications, and key points to check during the selection process. Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices…

Brushless motors are classified into inner-rotor and outer-rotor types based on the rotor’s position. Since structural differences affect torque, responsiveness, rotational stability, and heat dissipation, selecting a type that doesn’t match the application may prevent the motor from delivering the desired performance. When performing motor selection, it is important to understand the characteristics of each type and compare them based on required speed, torque, installation space, and other factors. In this article, we’ll provide a clear explanation of the structural and performance differences between inner-rotor and outer-rotor motors, their pros and cons, main applications, and how to choose the right one. Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices Sales Group This article has been supervised based on the…

Bearings, used in motors and industrial machinery, are critical components that support rotating shafts while minimizing friction to ensure smooth operation. If the wrong type of bearing is selected or it is not chosen properly, vibration, heat generation, and wear can occur, potentially leading to reduced machine performance and a shorter lifespan. There are various types of bearings, and there are numerous factors to consider, such as structure, load direction, and rotational speed. In this article, we’ll provide an easy-to-understand explanation of everything from the basic mechanisms and types of bearings to how to select them, how to assess their lifespan, and maintenance methods. Supervised by: C.I. TAKIRON Corporation Electronic Devices Sales Group This article has been supervised…