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Low power solenoid control system and method

  • US 7,911,758 B2
  • Filed: 05/13/2008
  • Issued: 03/22/2011
  • Est. Priority Date: 05/13/2008
  • Status: Active Grant
First Claim
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1. A method comprising the steps of:

  • (a) closing a single first switch, thereby allowing a source current to flow through an inductor;

    (b) opening the single first switch, thereby forcing a charge current to flow through an energy storage device utilizing the inductance of the inductor;

    (c) repeating steps a and b until the energy storage device is sufficiently charged, wherein steps a and b are performed a predetermined number of times and the predetermined number of times is determined through a calibration process performed upon circuit assembly during manufacturing;

    (d) upon command, closing a second switch, thereby forcing a discharge current to flow from the energy storage device to the inductor causing the inductor to produce an actuating magnetic field thereby actuating a mechanical valve.

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