Patent ID: 6218922
Filing Date: 2001-04-17
Classification: H01F,Y10T

Abstract:
A proportional solenoid manufacturing method comprising:a. forming a solenoid armature with a pair of imprecise annular grooves spaced apart axially of the armature;b. inserting the armature into a single precision mold having a pair of bearing cavities so that the armature grooves register with the bearing cavities;c. injecting bearing resin into the cavities to form an annular bearing in each of the annular grooves so that the bearings extend radially outward from the armature to outer bearing surfaces;d. using the precision mold to make the outer bearing surfaces precisely concentric even though the armature grooves may not be precisely concentric;e. using the precision mold to form the outer bearing surfaces at predetermined precise diameters;f. machining a solenoid housing to form a precise inner configuration engaging the outer bearing surfaces; andg. inserting the armature into the solenoid housing so that the outer bearing surfaces slidably engage the inner configuration of the solenoid housing in an accurate and low friction sliding fit.