Importance

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Abstract

A piezoelectric actuator for use in a fuel injector, the actuator comprising a stack of one or more piezoelectric elements for receipt within an accumulator chamber of the injector, distribution electrode means for generating an electric field within the stack and an electrical connector arrangement including a body member defining an external boundary and including a base portion and a stem portion projecting from the base portion. The base portion defines a base end face for abutment with an adjacent end face associated with the stack. Terminal means are provided for connection with an external power supply. The terminal means includes first and second terminal members disposed internal to the external boundary of the body member. The first and second terminal members are arranged side by side and disposed internal to the external boundary of the body member. The actuator further comprises first and second contact plates, each of which is connected electrically to a first end of a respective one of the first and second terminal members. The first and second terminal members are further connectable with an external power supply, in use, so as enable voltage supply to the distribution electrode means. The base portion of the body member defines a sealing surface for abutment with an internal surface defined by the accumulator chamber.

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First Claim