Hello all,
I am an arduino newbie researching my first project. I will not be ordering any parts until I am quite confident of what I require. (Budget is limited).
As part of this project I want to use a photocell (or other sensor) to trigger a small solenoid (10mm stroke).
Can someone give me an idea of the response time from the photocell being activated to the solenoid completing its "outgoing" stroke.
The return stroke is not important.
The response time would depend entirely on the solenoid and how it is powered, as that is by far the slowest part of the mechanism.
If the manufacturer's data sheet does not give the response time, you could buy it and determine the response time yourself.
jremington,
Thanks for the reply
The supply voltage would 5-6 volts, or if absolutely essential 12 volts. The stroke of the solenoid is 10mm (but that is is probably not the main issue). It would be be driven by an Arduino relay?? driver board.
I do not have any knowledge of electronics calculations. Could you give me some guidance as to the spec. of solenoid I should look for.
I have seen vids on YouTube for DIY solenoids. Any idea how many turns of copper wire would be required?
For informed advice, you will have to provide more details.
As far as predicting function, you are on your own if you build it yourself.
jremington
Could you let me know what information you would require?
I've already explained that the mysterious solenoid will be the slow component. However, no one can predict what something you make might do.
A clear explanation of what you actually want to accomplish and drawing of the proposed mechanical setup for your project, with dimensions and masses might be useful, as there may be better ways to accomplish your goal.
jremington
I am working on a drawing in Designspark Mechanical but have to learn the software. I will post ASAP.
The easiest drawings are made with a pencil, and you may already know how to use it.
For example: 
So, in this example, what is the value of F? (the weight of the load on the solenoid)
Gosh, Chris, how do you get that nice shading?
jremington:
Gosh, Chris, how do you get that nice shading?
I'm an arteest!
ChrisTenone:
I'm an arteest!
We need a 3D view showing the core going through the middle of the coil 8)
If you want to drive a solenoid fast its common to over-voltage it (but you have to keep the duty cycle low
to prevent overheating). For instance the old dot-matrix printers used little solenoid powered needles to
strike the paper and this technique.
With overvoltage the current rises faster, and thus the force develops quicker, and can rise to a
higher level that for continuous operation. However too much current will saturate the magnetic
circuit - past that point there's no extra benefit.
Amazing talent.
