Smaller is Better! Perspectives on Micromotors and Electric Drives

OVER 100 YEARS OF DESIGN AND analysis of electric machinery has been accomplished by those specializing in power systems, machinery, power electronics, and motor drives [1]. In the last decade, micromachining technology has enabled the use of small sensors and actuators in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) [2], One category of actuators is the micromotor—an electric motor with a diameter on the order of 1 mm (different criteria can apply). Most work in this field is by semiconductor-fabrication specialists who generally do not have expertise in machine design and control. This article gives a perspective on micromotors from the vantage point of the electric drive specialty.