Improving Device Performance with a Replacement Wheelchair Motor
A battery-powered wheelchair has a motor that connects to the joystick to make it easier to propel. The motor is usually under the seat, in the power base. This component determines the torque and speed of a wheelchair, so it has to be right for a particular model, which you can easily find on eBay.
How is a brushless wheelchair motor different from the brushed variety?The general working mechanism is similar in both types of motors. Windings in the component create a magnetic field when they are energised. The force that results from this process rotates the shaft, making it possible for the motor to function. Continuous shaft rotation drives current to the windings. A brushed DC motor contains commutator contacts in the brushes that allow it to deliver current to the windings. In a brushless motor, these commutators are missing. Instead, an amplifier, such as an optical encoder, is used to create the field in a brushless DC motor. Another huge distinction is that the windings on a brushless motor are on the stator, which is the stationary section of the motor while on a brush motor, they are on the rotor.
How much current does a standard electric motor need to draw?12 to 80 amps from rechargeable deep cycle batteries is used to power detachable wheelchair motors. Dry and wet cells both provide the necessary current. For this reason, a wheelchair motor must be connected to the right battery size. However, the exact voltage of a motor will determine the specific amperes that can power it.
What affects the suitability of a wheelchair motor?Wheelchair motors are not one-size-fits-all, so an incorrect installation will impact the performance of the equipment negatively. To know if a motor is appropriate for a particular machine, look at:
- Wheelchair capacity: The motor used on a standard wheelchair will not work on a heavy duty device. Wheelchairs designed to accommodate weights of more than 200 kgs require motors that can provide sufficient torque and horsepower.
- The voltage: A wheelchair can operate on 12V or 24V, depending on its side and functionalities. It may be necessary to get a single motor or two to meet the power requirements of your wheelchair.
- Type: Does your wheelchair need a brush or brushless DC motor? The brushless option offers better efficiency, especially in functions that require high torque, but they don't have the same reliability and cost-efficiency of brush motors.