Method for checking the functionality of an actuating unit, and actuating unit

A method for operating an actuating unit comprising;

• checking a functionality of the actuating unit before actuation comprising;
• moving a sliding element of the actuating unit from a first starting position to a second actuating position by switching on a supply voltage for applying a predetermined current level to a electromagnet;
• comprising at least the following steps:
• applying a current level corresponding at least to a magnitude of a holding current to an electromagnet;
• gradually changing the holding current;
• detecting the current flowing through the electromagnet during and/or after the change in the holding current;
• deriving the inductance from the change in the current profile, and
• comparing the inductance with an inductance characteristic curve stored in a non-volatile memory;
• wherein the functionality of the actuating unit is checked at least once at the beginning of operation of the actuating unit.

An actuating unit, comprising

• a sliding element,
• an electromagnet and
• a spring,
• wherein the sliding element is moveable from a first starting position to a second actuating position by switching on a supply voltage of the electromagnet, as a result of which electric current of a predetermined current level is applied to the electromagnet for carrying out the steps of:
• moving the sliding element of the actuating unit from the first starting position to the second actuating position by switching on a supply voltage
• applying the current level corresponding at least to a magnitude of a holding current to the electromagnet,
• gradually changing the holding current,
• detecting the current flowing through the electromagnet during and/or after the change in the holding current,
• deriving the inductance from the change in the current profile, and
• comparing the inductance with an inductance characteristic curve stored in a non-volatile memory.