motor · powered wheelchair · 電動輪椅 ·Jan 16, 2025

Electric Wheelchair - Electromagnetic Brakes vs. Electronic Brakes (Domestic EABS/Intelligent Brakes)

Electric Wheelchairs - Electromagnetic Brakes vs. Electronic Brakes

Recently, I noticed a system called "electronic brakes" (also known as EABS or smart brakes in mainland China) on the market. In reality, this is just a basic self-locking function when powered on. What we have always provided, and what is superior, are primarily electromagnetic brakes.

Braking systems for lightweight electric wheelchairs are mainly divided into two types: electronic brakes and electromagnetic brakes:

Electronic Brakes

Also known as EABS or smart brakes in mainland China
Achieved based on the self-locking function of the motor
When powered on, the brushless or brushed permanent magnet motor generates an electromagnetic field, creating resistance
This resistance acts as the self-locking function, providing basic braking effect
Disadvantage: If external force exceeds the resistance, it may forcibly push the motor, posing a potential risk of damage

Electromagnetic Brakes

Provide dual braking protection
Includes a manual/electric conversion lever, which is actually a brake
When switched to electric mode, the internal brake discs clamp together
Simultaneously triggers a sensor, putting the wheelchair into electric mode
Provides a more reliable braking effect than electronic brakes

The manual/electric conversion lever (the red lever in the picture below) is actually a brake. When pushed to electric mode, the internal brake discs clamp together, and simultaneously contact a sensor, letting the electric wheelchair know it is in electric mode.

Comparison of Electromagnetic Brakes vs. Electronic Brakes:

Appearance	Electromagnetic Brakes (with manual/electric conversion lever)	Electronic Brakes (without manual/electric conversion lever)
Performance on Slopes	Releasing the controller on a slope - immediate automatic stop Good performance means even after stopping on a slope, it can move forward immediately when restarting Even if power is lost/turned off, it will remain in place	Releasing the controller on a slope - will roll for a while before stopping If starting on a slope, it will roll backward to build up momentum before moving forward If power is lost/turned off on a slope, it may even slide down automatically
Braking Principle	When powered, the motor has resistance The electromagnetic brake (i.e., the manual/electric lever) is locked when in the electric position, providing a mechanical lock in electric mode	The motor only has resistance when powered
Result	Instant automatic braking is safer, easier to use, and more durable	Will roll backward or lose control on slopes, requiring avoidance of most slopes, or going up or down slopes in one continuous motion

Video Demonstration - Electromagnetic Brakes vs. Electronic Brakes

The advantage of the electromagnetic braking system lies in its dual protection mechanism, which not only relies on the motor's self-locking function but also has an additional mechanical braking device.

This design increases safety, especially when stronger braking force is needed or in unexpected situations. Although most electric wheelchairs have some degree of self-locking function (electronic brakes) when powered on, wheelchairs equipped with an electromagnetic braking system (manual/electric conversion lever brake) offer more comprehensive dual safety protection.

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Electric Wheelchairs - Brushed Motors vs. Brushless Motors

How to Choose an Electric Wheelchair - Brushed Motors vs. Brushless Motor Controllers

Lightweight Electric Wheelchair Buying Guide