A pendulum-type electromagnetic actuator is provided. The actuator includes a curved stationary member comprising a stationary core and a winding wound about the stationary core. A first moving member includes a first moving core and a first plurality of permanent magnets attached to the first moving core, the first moving member is curved and positioned on a first side of the stationary member. A second moving member includes a second moving core and a second plurality of permanent magnets attached to the second moving core, the second moving member is curved and position on a second side of the stationary member, the second side opposite the first side. The actuator further includes a pivot and a pivot connector connecting at least one of the first moving member and the second moving member to the pivot such that the curved moving member rotates about the pivot.