A simplified solenoid assembly has a simplified construction that maintains the mechanical integrity and operating efficiency of the solenoid. The solenoid assembly includes a frame having first and second frame leg portions extending from a frame middle portion. The side region of the first frame leg portion includes an aperture, and the side region of the second frame leg portion defines a frame pole face generally opposite the aperture. A bobbin having first and second bobbin end portions and a generally cylindrical bobbin intermediate portion is "snap-fit" between the frame leg portions. A plunger receiving region formed in the bobbin is aligned with the aperture through the frame, and the second bobbin end portion extends across the plunger receiving region to form a fixed gap between the bobbin and the frame. A plunger is slidably received through the aperture in the frame and into the plunger receiving region within the bobbin.
A magnetic pick-up tool, which preferably features a magnet retained on its non-exposed sides within a ferrous-containing carrier. The ferrous-containing carrier redirects the magnetic forces issuing from the magnet toward the exposed surface area, significantly increasing a magnet's strength without the need for increasing magnet size. In one embodiment, the pick-up tool features a threaded carrier, mated to a sleeve member in a manner allowing the sleeve member to be adjustably positioned relative to the magnet and carrier by rotation of the sleeve member in the desired direction.
An insulating insert for a magnetic air valve having a metal housing. The insert minimizes electrical contact between the metal housing and wires or other conductive objects contained within the metal housing. The insert comprises an electrically insulating material, and includes an insulating sleeve having side walls, top and bottom opposite open ends, and a threaded bushing attached around a hole through one side wall of the sleeve. The bushing engages a strain relief wire connector or hollow bolt of the magnetic valve, which wire connector contains wires passing into the housing to form electrical connections with the magnetic core of the valve. The insert also preferably includes an insulating flange around the perimeter of the top open end of the sleeve to thereby further insulate the housing, and to provide a seal between the housing and an optional covering.
An insulating insert for a magnetic air valve having a metal housing. The insert minimizes electrical contact between the metal housing and wires or other conductive objects contained within the metal housing. The insert comprises an electrically insulating material, and includes an insulating sleeve having side walls, top and bottom opposite open ends, and a threaded bushing attached around a hole through one side wall of the sleeve. The bushing engages a strain relief wire connector or hollow bolt of the magnetic valve, which wire connector contains wires passing into the housing to form electrical connections with the magnetic core of the valve. The insert also preferably includes an insulating flange around the perimeter of the top open end of the sleeve to thereby further insulate the housing, and to provide a seal between the housing and an optional covering.
A permanent magnet latching solenoid with a central passage carrying a reciprocative armature has a magnetically permeable bushing press-fit in each end of the bobbin. The outer ends of the bushings define the outer ends of the bore. A separate preformed magnetically permeable frame surrounds the bobbin and includes end wall portions that abut the outer ends of the bushings. The bobbin assembly is inserted laterally into the frame, with the ends of the bushings against the ends of the frame. Openings in the end walls of the frame accommodate free passage of an operator rod element which is affixed to the armature.
