US Patent 7474495 Piezoelectric micro-actuator for magnetic tape read/write head

The claimed embodiments provide methods, apparatuses and systems directed to a servo-actuated positioner for a read/write head that uses a piezoelectric super fine actuator that moves the read/write head to maintain alignment with data tracks on a magnetic tape. The servo-actuated positioner, in one implementation, uses flexures to mechanically support the read/write head. Piezoelectric elements are attached to the flexures in strategic locations to effect movement of the read/write head when the elements are actuated. This configuration achieves a large actuator motion using small piezoelectric elements. Additionally, manufacturability is improved since the piezoelectric elements, which are typically brittle, are attached to the mechanically robust flexures.