léptetmotor

Léptetmotor, also known as a stepper motor, is a brushless DC electric motor that divides a full rotation into a number of equal steps. The rotor, or shaft, turns in discrete increments, or steps. This precise control over the motor's position makes it ideal for applications where exact movement is required.

Stepper motors operate by energizing coils in a specific sequence. Each coil energizes and de-energizes, causing the rotor to move to a new, defined position. The number of steps per revolution determines the motor's resolution. Higher step counts result in finer positional control.

There are several types of stepper motors, including permanent magnet, variable reluctance, and hybrid. Permanent magnet motors use permanent magnets for the rotor. Variable reluctance motors have a soft iron rotor without permanent magnets. Hybrid stepper motors combine features of both types, offering higher torque and step accuracy.

The advantages of stepper motors include their ability to hold a position without power (holding torque), their open-loop control which often eliminates the need for encoders, and their relatively simple construction and control circuitry. However, they can lose steps if overloaded or driven too fast, and they are generally less efficient than other motor types. Applications range from 3D printers and CNC machines to robotics, camera lens focusing mechanisms, and precise dispensing systems.