Curious about the research surrounding eddy current brakes? This technology has piqued the interest of developers in the electric motorcycle industry. BMW has even reportedly filed a new patent pointing towards the development for an eddy current motorcycle brake system. Read on to explore more about this potential approach to braking technology in electric motorcycles.
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The Technology Behind the Brakes
Electric motorcycles are gaining popularity due to lower maintenance compared to traditional engines. However, their braking systems still rely on disc brakes, which use friction between the brake pads and rotors to slow the bike by converting motion into heat. Eddy current brakes, used more in trains and industrial machinery, work differently. Instead of friction, they generate resistance by passing a conductive material through a magnetic field, creating resistance that slows the object and dissipates heat. While both systems create heat, disc brakes rely on friction, whereas eddy current brakes use magnetic fields.
Potential Benefits and Current Challenges
While eddy current brakes can potentially offer faster response times by instantly generating a braking force without brake fluid, they are not commonly used in motorcycles at this time and typically don’t provide enough braking power for this application. Eddy current brakes also lack retaining torque, which is crucial for holding a vehicle in place, making them unsuitable as primary brakes. They are often paired with mechanical brakes for added safety. If developers in the bike industry can work around this challenge, eddy brakes may be beneficial for reducing wear and tear.
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If you’re interested in the possibility of eddy current brakes hitting the motorcycle world, stay tuned. BMW, in particular, has only just introduced their patent application. There’s still work to be done before this technology becomes mainstream, if possible. In the meantime, you can find all of your motorcycle needs on the Cycle Trader nationwide marketplace of new and used motorcycles.
