Configurable Solenoid Actuation Method and Apparatus

An integrated configurable, connectorized input/output module for operating a plurality of solenoids, said module comprising:

• a device communication connector apparatus for connecting at least one conductor between said module and each of said solenoids;
• and
• an interface apparatus for causing said module to place any of a plurality of signals on any of a plurality of contacts of said device communication connector apparatus, said interface apparatus including a memory for storing a computer program and a processor for executing said program, said program causing said processor to:
• (a) in response to a solenoid drive signal becoming true, connect an actuation voltage and establish an actuation current to the coil by said module, wherein said actuation voltage and actuation current cause said solenoid to close or seal;
• (b) on closing or sealing said solenoid, change to a sustain voltage and sustain current on the coil by said module, said sustain voltage or sustain current being less than said actuation voltage or actuation current and keeping said solenoid in a closed or sealed position;
• and
• (c) maintain said sustain voltage and sustain current by said module;
• and
• at least one power supply for directing power to said plurality of solenoids.

A system for operating a plurality of solenoids, said system comprising:

• an integrated configurable, connectorized input/output module comprising a device communication connector apparatus for connecting at least one conductor between said module and each of said solenoids and an interface apparatus for causing said module to place any of a plurality of signals on any of a plurality of contacts of said device communication connector apparatus, said module including at least one power supply for directing power to said solenoids;
• and
• a controller connected to said module by a communication link, said controller including a memory for storing a computer program and a processor for executing said program, said program causing said processor to switch a solenoid drive signal to true and send said signal to said module for said module to:
• (a) connect an actuation voltage and establish an actuation current to the coil, wherein said actuation voltage and coil current cause said solenoid to close or seal;
• (b) on closing or sealing said solenoid, change to a sustain voltage and sustain current on the coil by said module, said sustain voltage and sustain current being less than said actuation voltage or actuation current and keeping said solenoid in a closed or sealed position;
• and
• (c) maintain said sustain voltage and sustain current by said module.