BEI Technologies is investing in ThinGap Motor Technologies, the US-based developer of a novel, high-efficiency motor that dispenses with conventional windings and slotted laminations. The investment is part of an agreement that also covers the development, manufacturing and marketing of the motors.

ThinGap`s proprietary electromotive wireless coil and armature technology is said to result in brushed and brushless motors with higher efficiencies and power denisties than conventional designs.

BEI vice-president Gregg Stokely describes the ThinGap technology as being "truly unique" and says it has the potential "to redefine efficiency and servo bandwidth". He predicts that the novel motors will "become a disruptive technology in marketplace, with our experience and investment".

Doug Crawford, ThinGap`s chief marketing officer, says that ThinGap plans to make use of BEI`s marketing and manufacturing capabilities to accelerate sales of the motors. "ThinGap will utilise BEI optical encoder feedback products and drive electronics for many motor and servo applications," he adds.

At present, ThinGap`s manufacturing capacity is limited but there are now plans to move to high-volume automated production of the motors, which are intended for applications such as robotics, power tools, air bearing spindles and machine tools.