Abstract: Apparatus and method for providing high density component assemblies, such as electromechanical or electro-optical assemblies.

Abstract: The invention relates to the areas of piezoelectricity and magnetism, and relates in particular to a composite material having piezoelectric or magnetic properties and a method for manufacturing the same. The composite material can be used, for example, in piezosensitive sensors or in magnetic sensors. The method according to the invention includes culturing microorganisms in a nutrient medium in the presence of a piezoelectric powder or magnetic powder. The microorganisms fix or ingest the powder, and are subsequently extracted from the nutrient medium and dehydrated to obtain dry particles. The dry particles are then compacted or inserted into a matrix to constitute the composite material. The microorganisms can optionally be separated from the particles prior to compaction of the particles or insertion of the particles into the matrix.

Abstract: A pulsed droplet ink jet printer has at least one channel communicating with a nozzle. The side wall of the channel is formed as a shear mode piezo-electric actuator comprising an unpoled crystalline material. Electrodes applied to the actuator enable an electric field to be applied such that the actuator moves in transversely of the field to change the liquid pressure in the channel and thereby eject a droplet through the nozzle. The actuator can be made in two parts so as to deform, in cross section, to a chevron formation.