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13 | Brushless DC Like the AC synchronous reluctance motor, brushless DC (BLDC) motors (Figure 3) have gained popularity due to advances in electronics. The design of the BLDC motor shares some similarities with AC motors in that its operation relies on creating a rotating magnetic field by electromagnets on the stator. In this case, electronic systems control the field's rotation by adjusting the current's magnitude and direction into the coils. The rotor itself is a permanent magnet. This eliminates the need for brushes and a commutator in the design, making it more reliable and efficient than the older brushed DC design. The ability to control the speed of the motor precisely by adjusting the voltage to the electromagnetic coils makes BDLC motors ideal for precision applications, such as driving the rotors in drones. Conclusion This exploration of electric motors reveals a landscape rich in diversity and specialization. AC motors, particularly induction and synchronous types, stand out for their robustness and reliability in a range of applications, from industrial machinery to household devices. Their adaptability to single- or three-phase operations and ease of integration with mains electricity make them a preferred choice in many settings. DC motors, notably BLDC variants, excel in precision and efficiency. Their design evolution, propelled by advancements in electronic control systems, renders them ideal for applications requiring high starting torque and accurate speed control, such as drones. The ingenuity of electric motor design is further exemplified by hybrid models, which merge the best attributes of different motor types to enhance efficiency and performance. Selecting the right motor type for each application is critical, and no single design fits all. As technology progresses, electric motors will continue to evolve, offering ever-more tailored and efficient solutions for an array of applications. Figure 3: A BDLC motor in a drone application. (Source: "nikkytok/stock.adobe.com")