An electro-dynamic coupling and control assembly and a switchable linear actuator device are provided. The assembly has first and second coupling members each of which is supported for rotation about a common rotational axis and at least one locking member for selectively mechanically coupling the coupling members together. The device includes a stator structure including at least one electromagnetic source and a translator structure configured to be coupled to the second coupling member to rotate therewith. The translator structure includes at least one plunger which is elastically deformable in an axial direction to provide the device with compliance. Each plunger has a free end portion configured to move within a passage to engage and actuate a locking member within a pocket in the second coupling member.