Solenoid controls, systems, and methods of use for obtaining optimum battery life

A method of using a controller to optimize power delivery to a solenoid from a battery, the method comprising:

• dividing the operating time of the solenoid into at least three time periods using a controller algorithm;
• and
• optimizing the power delivered to each of the time periods using the controller,
• wherein the amount of power delivered in any of the time periods is at least the minimum amount necessary for normal operation of the solenoid;
• wherein the controller peaks the solenoid by first applying full output voltage, then steps down the output voltage, then ramps down the output voltage, and then oscillates between two voltage levels to hold the solenoid.

A system for optimizing the battery life of a device comprising a battery-operated solenoid, the system comprising:

• a battery capable of producing voltage to power a solenoid;
• a solenoid;
• and
• a controller,
• wherein the controller is capable of generating and utilizing a control algorithm,
• the control algorithm capable of providing power to operate the solenoid and operating the solenoid throughout the range of voltage which can be produced by the battery, wherein the controller supplies at least two different voltage levels to the solenoid, wherein the controller is configured to peak the solenoid by first applying full output voltage, then step down the output voltage, then ramp down the output voltage, and then oscillate between two voltage levels to hold the solenoid.