Electromagnetic apparatus and method for controlling fluid flow

摘要

An actuator (10A) including actuator base (18), bobbin (14), and pole piece (25) forming a pocket for a ferromagnetic armature (80) located therein. The actuator (10A) including a radial magnet (23) and a solenoid coil (28). The solenoid coil (28) is constructed and arranged to cause a linear displacement of the armature (80) upon application of a coil drive current from a control circuit. The actuator (10A) may include a flexible membrane (90) that partially encloses the armature (80) to form an armature chamber filled with an incompressible fluid. In a valve design, a fluid flow is stopped by driving the armature (80) to an extended position and thus the membrane (90) against a valve seat (104). The fluid flow is opened by driving the armature (80) and the membrane (90) away from the valve seat (104) into a retracted position.