I need to design a solenoid that extends when triggered by a timer... remains extended for x amount of time, x is no longer than ten seconds (preferably the timer would be accurate within 1/100th of a second... but tenth of a second would be acceptable for the initial design). After x amount of time is up, the solenoid resets (retracted) in its initial position (I figure that I can design a solenoid operating in tandem of a spring mechanism to retract it).
The solenoid doesnt have to exert too much force, so nothing too powerful, maybe slightly more power as it would take to type on an older keyboard and the solenoid extension distance doesnt have to be more than a hair over half a centimeter.
Would prefer this system be as small as possible, and DC powered, think RC car battery size power source.
I generally dont design or work on electronics so if anyone could point me in the direction of places or online electronic stores that might have the parts required for what I am working on, I would very much appreciate it.
Feel free to give me a few lists of small electronic parts suppliers as I never know when I may need them in the future.
Thanks in advance.