A Miniature Solenoid Designed for a Wearable Device

TLX Technologies developed a miniature solenoid air valve for a specialized running shoe cushioning system.

Customer Problem

A running shoe manufacturer needed an air valve for a shoe that would automatically respond to a runner’s stride, foot-strike, and pace to improve comfort for athletes and patients with foot problems. The midsole of the shoe would include a two-bladder cushioning system controlled by a small digital sensor and a battery-powered air valve. The valve needed to be small enough to fit into the shoe’s midsole and withstand the repeated impacts of running or walking.

The TLX Solution

TLX developed a miniature solenoid air valve that used latching technology to extend battery life. A short 150 mA pulse actuated the valve, and it drew no current to maintain state. The valve measured only 43 mm in length, easily fitting into the shoe’s midsole. The valve’s bobbin, valve pressure cavity, and magnets were molded into one assembly and then securely crimped to withstand the constant pounding of a runner’s stride.

View Design Solution

Miniature Solenoid Air Valve

Coil resistance at 20°C: 25 Ω ± 2 Ω
Stroke: 0.1524 mm ± 0.0254 mm
Latched spring load: 1.81 N
De-latched spring load: 1.72 N
Duty rating (%ED): 100%
Oriﬁce size: 1 mm
Supply voltage: 3 Vdc
Current: 150 mA
Max pressure: 103.4 kPa
Solenoid weight: 14.17 g min.

All TLX components are customized to fit system requirements, meaning technical specifications are unique to each customer and design. Examples given on our website are for illustration purposes only.

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Localized production in USA and China
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Step 1 / Initial Review

Our engineering team works directly with you to determine the viability of your program and identify the best solution based on your specifications.

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Step 3 / Design Review & Prototypes

Our engineering team reviews the design with you and makes any adjustments needed. Prototypes are built according to design specifications for testing.