Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator (100) comprises magnets (109, 111, 113, 115, 11), and a ferromagnetic structure (103) accommodating control conductors (118, 121, 123, 125). The magnets and the structure can move with respect to one another under control of control currents in the control conductors. The magnetic field in a gap (107) between the magnets and the ferromagnetic structure is oriented perpendicular to the direction of relative movement. The structure (103) accommodates damping conductors (127) that form closed loops of an electrically conductive material, different from the ferromagnetic material. The damping conductors (127) provide a damping force induced by the relative movement.

Abstract: Spring comprising a first part (1) and a second part (2) moveable relative to each other, the first part being provided with at least one permanent magnet (4,4?), the second part being provided with at least one tooth (5,SM of a soft magnetic material which faces the at least one permanent magnet, whereby the total area of the facing surface varies as the first part moves relative to the second part, the first and/or the second part also being provided with at least one set of electrically conductive windings (7) which are connected to an electric power supply (8) in order to create a magnetic field for influencing the force-displacement characteristic of the spring. Also disclosed is an assembly of such a spring with a conventional spring and/or a damper, as well as a vehicle provided with such a spring.

Abstract: An electromagnetic actuator (100) comprises magnets (109, 111, 113, 115, 11), and a ferromagnetic structure (103) accommodating control conductors (118, 121, 123, 125). The magnets and the structure can move with respect to one another under control of control currents in the control conductors. The magnetic field in a gap (107) between the magnets and the ferromagnetic structure is oriented perpendicular to the direction of relative movement. The structure (103) accommodates damping conductors (127) that form closed loops of an electrically conductive material, different from the ferromagnetic material. The damping conductors (127) provide a damping force induced by the relative movement.