Solenoid driver circuit for use with digital magnetic latching solenoids

Abstract

A solenoid driver circuit adapted for use with a digital magnetic latching olenoid which has first and second solenoid coils. The solenoid driver circuit includes a bridge circuit which receives a logic signal and first and second pulse signals. The solenoid driver circuit also includes a voltage source which provides a direct current and first and second resistors respectively connected to the first and second solenoid coils. The bridge circuit, responsive to the logic signal and the first pulse signal, provides a first current path from the voltage source through the first solenoid coil and the first resistor to ground and a second current path from the direct current voltage source through the second solenoid coil to ground. The bridge circuit, responsive to the logic signal and the second pulse signal, provides a third current path from the direct current voltage source through the first solenoid coil to ground and a fourth current path from the direct current voltage source through the second solenoid coil and the second resistor to ground. The current flow through the current paths which include a solenoid coil and a resistor is approximately one amp, while the current flow through the currents paths which include only a solenoid coil is approximately twenty six amps. This allows for high speed control of the forces acting on the actuator of the solenoid.