Proportional control of a solenoid actuator

Solenoids are nonlinear actuating devices normally used in a switching mode. This paper proposes a dual rate cascade control for converting a switching solenoid into a proportional actuator. A fast inner loop current controller and a slower PID outer loop trajectory controller are employed, A simple static nonlinear map is used to partially linearise the system. This method results in a proportional actuator which is effective and practical.<>