This article has been supervised based on the advanced technical expertise and insights we have cultivated since our founding in 1919 as a leading company in plastic processing. Our department continuously analyzes market trends and the latest technologies in ultra-compact, high-precision micro motors, focusing on providing high-value-added information to designers and developers. As a team of experts with in-depth knowledge of product characteristics, we support our customers\u2019 problem-solving and technological innovation by delivering accurate and practical content.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n
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Definition and Main Types of Small Motors<\/h2>\n
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Small motors generally refer to those with an output of 100W or less, and those with an output of 3W or less are called micro motors (ultra-small motors). Power sources are classified as direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC), and their structures vary widely, including brushed, brushless, coreless, and stepper types.<\/p>\n
This chapter covers the basic definition of small motors and the main classifications and types that engineers should be familiar with.<\/p>\n
Contents of This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n By understanding each classification criterion, you can efficiently narrow down the list of motors suitable for your products.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Small motors refer to motors with an output of 100W or less. Some definitions set the limit at 75W or less, and standards vary slightly depending on the industry and literature. Motors with an output of 3W or less are specifically called micro motors and can be powered by a single dry cell battery.<\/p>\n In recent years, thanks to technological advancements, products capable of high output exceeding 100W in compact sizes, as well as ultra-small motors with diameters of 4mm or less, have emerged. Therefore, it is necessary to define “small” not only by output values but also by physical dimensions such as outer diameter and length.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Motors are classified into direct current (DC) motors and alternating current (AC) motors based on the type of power source. DC motors tend to be more commonly used in small motors. This is because they can operate at low voltages, are well-suited for battery-powered devices, and possess characteristics suitable for precise speed control.<\/p>\n DC motors are further divided into brushed and brushless types. Brushed types have a simple structure and are easy to control, but their service life is limited by brush wear. Brushless types have a long service life and require less frequent maintenance because they do not have brushes.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Even among DC motors, characteristics vary significantly depending on their structure. The features of the three main types are summarized in the table below.<\/p>\n High responsiveness<\/td>\n Optical equipment<\/p>\n Precision control<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Low noise<\/p>\n High efficiency<\/td>\n Security equipment<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n Open-loop control is possible<\/td>\n Printers<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n Since coreless motors lack an iron core, they generate virtually no cogging torque (rotational irregularities), enabling smooth rotation and high-speed response. Brushless DC motors have no brush wear and offer a long service life. Stepper motors excel in positioning accuracy and allow for precise angle control even without feedback control.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Small motors are used in many fields, including medical equipment, industrial equipment, optical equipment, security equipment, and hobby products. The performance requirements vary by field.<\/p>\n In the medical field, high reliability and smooth, cogging-free operation are key requirements; in the optical field, fast response and low vibration are essential; and in the security field, low-voltage startup and long service life are primary requirements. This chapter explains application-specific use cases and technical requirements with concrete examples.<\/p>\n Contents of This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n Through specific examples from each sector, we will explore the technical characteristics required of small motors.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In medical devices, patient safety is the top priority, and motors must offer high reliability and precise control. Coreless motors are used in the following medical devices.<\/p>\n [Major Applications<\/strong>]<\/p>\n Coreless motors achieve smooth, cogging-free rotation, meeting the demands of medical settings that require minimal vibration and consistent rotational performance. Additionally, their high responsiveness enables rapid start-up and stop, making them suitable for emergency situations. When developing medical devices, it is essential to consider the motor\u2019s quality control system and long-term supply stability as selection criteria.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Driving camera lenses requires high-speed and precise positioning. Coreless motors generate virtually no cogging torque, effectively suppressing micro-vibrations during lens operation. By eliminating rotational irregularities that cause image blur and focus misalignment, they enable high-quality imaging.<\/p>\n Primary applications include autofocus mechanisms, image stabilization mechanisms, and aperture adjustment mechanisms. Coreless motors have low inertia, enabling rapid start-up, stopping, and reversal, making them well-suited for subject tracking.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Industrial power tools and handheld devices require motors that deliver high torque despite their compact size. Since coreless motors lack an iron core, they can be miniaturized, helping to reduce the burden on operators.<\/p>\n In battery-powered electric tools, reducing power consumption directly extends battery life. Core-less motors operate efficiently, enabling longer use on a single charge. Additionally, reduced vibration improves work stability, leading to higher product quality.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In battery-powered security devices such as electronic locks and smart locks, power efficiency and long service life are of the utmost importance. To ensure long-term operation with limited battery capacity, a motor that starts reliably even at low voltages is essential.<\/p>\n Some micromotors can start at extremely low voltages\u2014as low as 1.0V\u2014maintaining stable operation even when battery levels are low. By combining low-voltage operation with a long service life, the following benefits are achieved.<\/p>\n [Benefits of Adoption in Security Devices<\/strong>]<\/p>\n Since security equipment is used in applications where failure is not tolerated, the reliability of the motor and the quality control system are decisive factors in the adoption decision.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n In radio-controlled vehicles, electric bicycle units, and beauty appliances, high-performance, long-life motors are required to differentiate products. Since the quality of the motor\u2014a core component\u2014determines the evaluation of the entire product, selection must be approached with care.<\/p>\n By adopting compact, low-vibration, long-life coreless motors, it is possible to develop products that deliver high user satisfaction. In RC servo motors, minimal micro-vibration directly leads to improved control accuracy, while in beauty appliances, low-vibration characteristics enhance quiet operation.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n To select the optimal small motor, it is essential not only to verify specifications such as size, torque, speed, and voltage but also to assess the characteristics required for the specific operating environment and application.<\/p>\n This chapter outlines the key specifications to consider when selecting a motor, as well as the benefits of using small motors\u2014including coreless motors\u2014such as product miniaturization, weight reduction, energy savings, reduced vibration and noise, and extended service life.<\/p>\n Contents of This Section<\/strong><\/p>\n By following an appropriate selection process, you can simultaneously enhance product competitiveness and reduce development risks.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n When selecting a motor, it is essential to thoroughly verify that the specifications meet your product requirements. The key verification points are as follows.<\/p>\n\n
Definition and Classification of Small Motors by Output<\/span><\/h3>\n
Classification by Power Source: DC Motors and AC Motors<\/span><\/h3>\n
Major Types by Structure: Coreless, Brushless, and Stepper<\/span><\/h3>\n
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\n Type<\/strong><\/td>\n Structural Features<\/strong><\/td>\n Main Advantages<\/strong><\/td>\n Examples of Applications<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Coreless Motor<\/td>\n \u00a0Winding structure without an iron core<\/td>\n \u00a0Cogging-free, smooth rotation<\/p>\n \u00a0Medical devices<\/p>\n \n Brushless DC Motor<\/td>\n \u00a0Brushless and commutator-free design<\/td>\n \u00a0Long service life<\/p>\n \u00a0Industrial Equipment<\/p>\n \n Stepper motor<\/td>\n \u00a0Structure for angle control via pulse signals<\/td>\n \u00a0High positioning accuracy<\/p>\n \u00a0Positioning device<\/p>\n Examples of Small Motor Applications by Field<\/h2>\n
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Applications in the Medical Equipment Sector: Environments Demanding High Precision and Reliability<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Applications in the Optical Equipment Field: High-Speed Response and Low Vibration Are Key<\/span><\/h3>\n
Applications in Industrial Equipment and Tools: Achieving Compactness, Lightweight Design, and High Efficiency<\/span><\/h3>\n
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\n Required Characteristics<\/strong><\/td>\n Core-less Motor Capabilities<\/strong><\/td>\n Benefits for Products<\/strong><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Compact Design<\/td>\n \u00a0Compact design enabled by a coreless structure<\/td>\n \u00a0Contribution to Product Miniaturization<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Energy Savings<\/td>\n \u00a0Reduced current consumption through high-efficiency operation<\/td>\n \u00a0Extended Battery Life<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Low vibration<\/td>\n \u00a0Stable rotation with cogging-free operation<\/td>\n \u00a0Improved operational accuracy<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Durability<\/td>\n \u00a0Impact-resistant construction<\/td>\n \u00a0Designed for Harsh Job Site Conditions<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n Applications in the Security Equipment Sector: Low-Voltage Start-up and Long Service Life<\/span><\/h3>\n
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Applications in Hobby and Consumer Products: Enhanced Performance and Durability<\/span><\/h3>\n
Key Selection Criteria and Benefits of Compact Motors<\/h2>\n
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Key Specifications to Check When Selecting a Motor<\/span><\/h3>\n
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