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DRV110: NON-PWM Operation of Solenoid for Quick Open and Close

Part Number: DRV110
Other Parts Discussed in Thread: LM1949, , DRV8803

Tool/software:

Hi, In relation to the original query, i would like to ask some questions if anyone is able to assist. (FYI, this is an application involving ejection of high-speed waste (PCB's) on a conveyor at 3m/s and upwards, the solenoid nozzles are mounted as an array at the end of the belt)

1. My solenoid (24V, 12W) will only be on for a max of 10ms or less (to provide a bullet burst effect and eject the item) and that's it. The crux of the query is getting it to switch on as fast as possible and close as fast as possible too. Both closing and opening are crucial as the solenoid(s) need to be ready for the next item on the belt which may be 2 cm away, which gives you a time slot 6.6ms to react if the belt is running at 3m/s!!! Slight smile

2. All DRV devices focus more on PWM, I do not fully understand the full advantage of using PWM when you have such a short on-time. Perhaps for holding a solenoid long enough time period it may be useful but correct me if I am wrong here.

3. A boosted start, the internet talks about a capacitor/transistor based circuit that provides the initial spike of 3x or 4x solenoid activation voltage to execute a quick pull-in and then the voltage is stabilized to a much lower value to just keep it in. What is the best and sure short way that you have come across to activate a solenoid as fast as possible? Remember, I want it to be as simple as possible to non-PWM suggestions will be drooled upon! :D

4. An abrupt stop. Part of the operation is to ensure that the solenoid switches off i.e. returns to its off position (spring type). To do this I am using a clamping circuit (a Zener rated 51v in series with a diode), Can anyone also shed some light as to whether there is a better way to further decrease stopping time? Some sources point to an RC snubber, however I personally do not like that (just my opinion).

Feel free to ask any questions! looking forward to some enlightening responses.

  • Hi Haris,

    We use PWM often with motor drivers to regulate the motor voltage. This helps to control the speed of a motor by simply adjusting the duty cycle of the PWM. This approach is often done to control brushed-dc motors. 

    Due to your application only needing to be turned on for a short period of time, you will likely not need to use PWM. Yes, you are correct, sometimes a PWM signal can be useful when needing to implement peak-and-hold.

    The limiting factor in how quickly the solenoid can be turned "ON/OFF" will depend on its rise/fall time. This impacts how quickly the current rises when voltage is applied. The solenoid's inductance (L) and resistance (R) will determine its time constant τ = L/R.

    Best,

    David

  • Hi David

    Thanks for the prompt response.

    Good to know that PWM is not the best way forward (in this particular application).

    I have now selected LM1949. It's meant to be for fuel injectors but i believe i can use it for my application too.

    Just need to figure out how to implement this on a 24Vdc solenoid as the entire documentation is based off a 5V circuit (P.S if you have any suggestions on this they'd be very welcomed).

    Regards

    Haris

  • Hi Haris,

    I'm glad you think the LM1949 will work for your application. Generally, when asked for a solenoid driver similar to DRV110 (relay/contactor driver), I suggest some of the following in this voltage range:

    DRV8803 

    DRV8860 

    DRV8952 

    Please check them out and hopefully they offer an easier design solution.

    Best,

    David

  • Hi David

    Very helpful, the DRV8803 appears to be a nice non-PWM fast switching route for me (for now Slight smile)

    Many thanks for taking the time to help.

    Best Regards

    Haris