Latching solenoid with improved pull force

The present invention relates generally to solenoids, and more particularly, to latching solenoids which include a magnetic flux shunt member for providing a low reluctance magnetic flux path between an armature and a pole member, for example, of the solenoid as the armature is driven toward a latching position. A latching solenoid includes a pole member, an armature movable relative to the pole member, a solenoid coil assembly for positioning the armature relative to the pole member, and a magnetic flux shunt structure. The shunt structure bridges the air gap between the pole face and the armature face, providing a low reluctance magnetic flux path between the pole member and the armature to increase the attractive force between the armature and the pole member. The shunt structure can be a saturation tip formed integrally with the armature or a separate flux shunt member configured as a ring which is fixed to the armature. The armature can be maintained latched by the effects of residual magnetism or by a permanent magnet.