Abstract: The present invention is a fuel injection system having one or more fuel injectors and an electronic control system therefore. The preferred fuel injector has a double magnetic latching solenoid three-way or four-way spool valve that controls the flow of a working fluid that is used to control the discharge of fuel into the combustion chamber or intake manifold of an engine through the nozzle of the injector. The control system provides actuating current pulses to each of the solenoids to actuate and latch the solenoids to effect initiation and termination of the injection. Disclosed are control systems that provide a snap action in one or both actuating directions of the valve by electromagnetically retaining the valve in the latched condition until the force in the actuated solenoid builds to a high level, and then releasing the valve for higher acceleration to the actuated position.

Abstract: A hydraulic system with control valves that can control the movement of an actuator. The system has a first control valve and a second control valve that each contain solenoids that can switch the valves between open and closed positions. The valves are connected to a digital controller that can energize the solenoids. The controller controls the sequence of energizing such that when the first valve is opened the second valve is closed, and when the second valve is opened the first valve is closed. The valves are connected to the actuator so that the actuator moves in first direction when the first valve is opened and in a second opposite direction when the second valve is opened. The valves have an internal pressure balance that allows the solenoids to quickly switch into the open position using minimal power. The solenoids also have magnets that maintain the valves in the open position when power is terminated.

Abstract: The present invention is a fuel injection system having one or more fuel injectors and an electronic control system therefore. The preferred fuel injector has a double magnetic latching solenoid three-way or four-way spool valve that controls the flow of a working fluid that is used to control the discharge of fuel into the combustion chamber or intake manifold of an engine through the nozzle of the injector. The control system provides actuating current pulses to each of the solenoids to actuate and latch the solenoids to effect initiation and termination of the injection. Disclosed are control systems that provide a snap action in one or both actuating directions of the valve by electromagnetically retaining the valve in the latched condition until the force in the actuated solenoid builds to a high level, and then releasing the valve for higher acceleration to the actuated position.