| abstract |
An actuator ( 1 ), for a printhead, wherein the actuator ( 1 ) comprises: an actuating element ( 2 ) an obturator assembly ( 3 ), engageable with the actuator element ( 2 ); wherein the actuating element ( 2 ) is operable to assume, depending on a drive signal applied thereto: a rest configuration, in which the obturator assembly ( 3 ) is at a first distance (X 0 ) from a reference plane (A); a first deformed configuration, in which the obturator assembly ( 3 ) is at a second distance (X 1 ) from the reference plane (A) greater than the first distance (X 0 ), and a second deformed configuration, in which the obturator assembly ( 3 ) is in contact with the reference plane (A), wherein: a control module ( 4 ) is configured for regulating a drive signal to the actuating element ( 2 ) to cause the obturator assembly ( 3 ) to move between the rest configuration and the first deformed configuration during a first operating cycle, to reduce the effects of impact on the obturator assembly. |