Module 5: IoT Motor
Learning Objectives
By the end of this module, learners will be able to:
1. Identify different types of DC motors and understand their working principles.
2. Explain how to wire and control DC, servo, and stepper motors using Arduino.
3. Apply motor control techniques in real-world applications, such as robotics, automation,
and industrial systems.
4. Implement different driver modules to protect Arduino from electrical damage.
Types of Motors
Electric motors convert electrical energy into mechanical motion. They are classified into two
main types:
AC Motors – Operate using alternating current; commonly used in industrial machinery,
fans, and household appliances.
DC Motors – Operate using direct current; commonly used in robotics, electronic
projects, and small appliances.
Types of DC Motors Covered in this Module:
1. Simple DC Motor
2. Servo Motor
3. Stepper Motor
4. Brushless DC Motor
Simple DC Motor
A DC motor is an electric motor that converts direct current (DC) electrical energy into
mechanical rotation.
Working Principle:
A DC motor consists of an armature, permanent magnets, and brushes.
When an electric current passes through the armature, it creates a magnetic field that
interacts with the permanent magnets, generating rotational motion.
The motor changes direction when the polarity of the power supply is reversed.
Characteristics:
Rotates continuously in one direction.
Changes direction when polarity is reversed.
Requires a motor driver circuit to prevent damage to the Arduino.
Applications:
Robotics – Used in wheeled robots for movement.
Fans and Cooling Systems – Found in CPU cooling fans.
Toy Cars and Model Trains – Power the movement mechanisms.
Conveyor Belts – Used in small-scale automation systems.
Servo Motor
A servo motor is a rotary actuator that allows for precise control of angular position, velocity,
and acceleration.
Working Principle:
Operates on Pulse Width Modulation (PWM) signals, which determine the position of
the motor shaft.
A closed-loop control system ensures accuracy, making it return to a preset angle when
external force is applied.
Characteristics:
Does not rotate continuously like a DC motor.
Can be set to rotate at fixed angles (e.g., 40°, 90°, 180°).
Returns to its original position if forced away.
Applications:
Model Airplanes and Drones – Controls flaps and stabilizers.
Robotic Arms – Provides controlled movement for picking and placing objects.
Automated Doors and Locks – Used in access control systems.
RC Cars and Boats – Controls steering mechanisms.
Stepper Motor
A stepper motor is a brushless motor that moves in discrete steps, allowing for precise
positioning.
Working Principle:
Uses a driver circuit to energize coils in sequence, generating step-by-step motion.
Each step moves the shaft a precise distance (e.g., 1.8-degree steps per pulse).
Can achieve micro-stepping, where each step is divided into smaller angles for high
precision control.
Characteristics:
Moves in small, controlled steps instead of continuous rotation.
Can achieve high precision with micro-stepping.
Commonly used in automated machinery and 3D printing.
Applications:
3D Printers – Provides precise layer-by-layer movement.
CNC Machines – Controls cutting tools with high accuracy.
Camera Gimbals – Stabilizes camera movement in photography.
Automated Agriculture Equipment – Used in seed-planting robots.
