Method for controlling an electromagnetic actuator operating an engine valve

Abstract

A method of operating a cylinder valve of an internal-combustion engine with an electromagnetic actuator for moving the cylinder valve into opposite open and closed valve end positions includes the steps of energizing an electromagnet of the actuator for generating an electromagnetic force for moving an armature of the actuator toward a pole face of the electromagnet against the force of a return spring; after the armature enters a zone adjacent the pole face of the electromagnet, applying to the armature an additional force opposing the electromagnetic force of the electromagnet; dimensioning the additional force such that an equilibrium between the electromagnetic force of the electromagnet and the increased opposing force of the return spring is situated at a location shortly before the armature enters into engagement with the pole face of the electromagnet; and after the armature reaches the location of force equilibrium, controlling a current supply to the electromagnet such that the armature reaches the pole face of the electromagnet with a predeterminable velocity.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.