Brushless DC motor technology

The theory of brushless motors which operate from a DC power source is well known. The cost effective utilization of this motor in automotive applications, however, is just now being realized. Today's realization results from significant advancements in both motor technology and electronics control technology. The paper describes the basic theory and formidable design challenges presented by the brushless motor and the solid state inverter which makes it functional. Performance data from an automotive blower application is presented to show the merits of brushless motors relative to their conventional counterparts. It is shown that brushless motors indeed serve as an impressive complement to the broad spectrum of motor technology available for the optimum design of automotive systems.