Solenoid arrangement with segmented armature member for reducing radial force

摘要

A solenoid arrangement having an armature member that is segmented to help minimize the radial force due to eccentricity of the armature member. The solenoid arrangement has a magnetic coil that when energized will create magnetic flux in the flux path. A pole piece is partly circumscribed by the armature member. Inner and outer air gaps are located about the armature member. Eccentricity of the armature member results in a decrease in one of the air gaps and a corresponding increase in the other. Radial gaps segment the armature member to interrupt the circumferential flux path about the armature member to inhibit magnetic flux from swirling to the side nearest the pole piece and to distribute magnetic flux substantially evenly. The radial force acting on the armature member is reduced resulting in reduced friction between solenoid components while substantially preserving the desirable level of axial force.