Patent ID: 6041667
Filing Date: 2000-03-28
Classification: H01F

Abstract:
A method of operating an electromagnetic actuator for actuating a setting member, the actuator including at least one electromagnet secured to a support and which is supplied with current by a control device, said electromagnet having a pole face, and an armature that is operatively connected with the setting member to be actuated and which is brought out of a first set position, counter to a force of a restoring spring, into a second set position in which the armature is in contact with the pole face of the electromagnet when the electromagnet is supplied with current, the method comprising the steps of:detecting a change in the setting force of the restoring spring at least during part of the armature motion; andderiving at least one of a respective position of the armature and its moving speed from the detected change in the setting force for use in at least one of checking and influencing actuation of the electromagnet.