As they are used for extended periods – especially by professional users – the shape is important. However, they are more expensive than the brushed type, and the method of control is somewhat more complex.ĭesigners pay a lot of attention to ergonomics in modern power tools. Generally speaking, BLDC motors are becoming the preferred choice for designers as they are more powerful for a given size and are virtually maintenance-free. The more modern BLDC motors operate without brushes, thereby removing a wear-out mechanism and reducing rotational friction, which extends the operating time. Older brushed DC motors have an armature (rotor), commutator, brushes, spindle, and permanent magnets.
The motor is key to solving the challenge, and two main types are in use. In fact, these goals often conflict as a larger battery increases run-time but also increases size and weight. The primary challenge for designers of cordless power tools is the need to constantly reduce size and weight while increasing the run-time between charges (or changes of battery). However, with a shift to Li-ion battery power and brushless DC (BLDC) motors, the capability of cordless tools is now on a par with their corded cousins.Ĭonvenience, portability, and safety are the primary factors for professionals and DIY users choosing cordless tools as there are no mains voltages present and no power cord which can be snagged, tripped on, or cut through during use. In the past, Ni-Cd or Ni-MH powered cordless tools with brushed DC motors had some limitations, hence corded tools were preferred for the most demanding tasks. In industry, as operational efficiency increases in importance, cordless power tools are increasingly being used on assembly lines to speed up processes. The recent pandemic has only accelerated things further, as people generally have more time at home and more disposable income to do repairs and upgrades. With the cost of moving house being high, many homeowners are deciding to improve their current house on a DIY basis rather than move.
Many factors drive this acceleration in growth, and a general improvement in the construction industry worldwide is one of those. Their report calculates a growth rate (CAGR) of 3.7 percent between 20 and, furthermore, shows this rising to an estimated 5.1 percent between 20. A relatively recent report by Future Market Insights estimated that the market was worth around US $27 billion in 2015, rising to over US $45 billion by 2025. Sales of cordless power tools are strong and rising rapidly. The world of power tools – today and in the future
This article discusses the challenges that need to be overcome to deliver state-of-the-art power tools and also considers how highly integrated motor controllers play a significant role in meeting contemporary design challenges for this application. At the heart of all cordless tools is the motor controller that has a significant influence on allowing designers to meet end-market objectives of more convenient use. However, manufacturers are being challenged to reduce the size and weight of tools to enhance ergonomics as well as extending battery life between charges. With the inclusion of brushless DC (BLDC) motors, they are now suitable for most tasks. Cordless power tools are becoming increasingly popular in professional and DIY usage due to their ease of use, portability, and increased safety over mains-powered tools.