Abstract: A method for identifying an overcurrent when charging a piezo actuator, by periodically connecting and disconnecting the piezo actuator to and from an energy source via a charging coil. A connection is followed by a disconnection when the charging current has reached a prescribed maximum current value and a minimum switched-on time has elapsed, and a connection is effected again when either a prescribed minimum current value has been reached or a maximum switched-off time has elapsed. An overcurrent is identified when a disconnection is effected when the minimum switched-on time has elapsed and the charging current has previously reached or exceeded a prescribed maximum current value. An overcurrent is also identified when, after a disconnection on account of the prescribed maximum current value having been reached, a connection is effected again when the maximum switched-off time has elapsed without the minimum current value having been reached.

Abstract: A method for identifying an overcurrent when charging a piezo actuator, by periodically connecting and disconnecting the piezo actuator to and from an energy source via a charging coil. A connection is followed by a disconnection when the charging current has reached a prescribed maximum current value and a minimum switched-on time has elapsed, and a connection is effected again when either a prescribed minimum current value has been reached or a maximum switched-off time has elapsed. An overcurrent is identified when a disconnection is effected when the minimum switched-on time has elapsed and the charging current has previously reached or exceeded a prescribed maximum current value. An overcurrent is also identified when, after a disconnection on account of the prescribed maximum current value having been reached, a connection is effected again when the maximum switched-off time has elapsed without the minimum current value having been reached.