Actuator/Solenoid (Central Locking) Question

[EViS]

I purchased some central locking actuators/solenoids to install remote locking to my tonneau cover. However, the locks are spring loaded and once the solenoid pulls the lock back, if you don't open the tonneau immediately, the spring on the lock pulls the solenoid arm back to effectively re-lock.

Can you purchase a solenoid which works on gears or is more powerful so that a small spring loaded lock doesn't pull the solenoid arm back?

[Wing Commander]

Not entirely sure if it is going to work, but I would try the solenoids you can get from Maplins. They are about £10 and have quite a bit of punch behind them.

[marshalla]

Surely the actuators operate in both push and pull modes ? If so - do you still need the springs or will the actuators lock into the closed position, achieving the same effect ?

[Doctor Volt]

Take a look at these

http://www.servocity.com/html/12v_linear_actuators...

You would need to wire in a position sensor controlled relay to automatically switch the power off once the locks have been opened, if you contact the above supplier they will probably be able to supply you all parts required

Your other option is to use a small wiper motor and wire the motor park swich to a relay that will cut the power when the locks are open

The problem you will have with either of the above is that a circuit or mechanical device will be needed to release the locks back into their normal position

I have just thought of something else - Many modern aircon units have electrical actuators to operate the air vents, perhaps you could utilise one of them, I do know that these actuators are powerful