Horn loaded piezoelectric matrix printer drive method and apparatus

摘要

A method and apparatus for driving a matrix printer element is described which utilizes a piezoelectrically driven horn loaded driver. The horn is preferably tapered in the direction of the printing element and has a base area to which is attached a piezoelectric crystal excitation device. The piezoelectric crystal structure is driven by electric pulses which are coupled to the tapered horn to increase the impact velocity and stroke at the output end of the horn. The piezoelectric crystals may be controlled by the application of a particular pulse pattern to reduce resonance and insure an optimum deceleration of the crystal during rebound of the printing element.