FUEL INJECTION RATE MODULATION BY MAGNETOSTRICTIVE ACTUATOR AND FLUIDOMECHANICAL COUPLER

An improved device, system and/or method for modulating fuel injection rate through fast magnetostrictive actuation is provided. A fluidomechanical coupler uses fluid to operably couple a magnetostrictive element and a needle element. The fluidomechanical coupler permits the needle element to move from a closed position to an open position when the magnetostrictive element is actuated from a default length to an expanded length. The fluidomechanical coupler is configured to translate an input force into an output response in a direction opposite the input force. The fluidomechanical coupler includes input shafts each within an input bore and positioned adjacent to the magnetostrictive element, a movable output shaft within an output bore and positioned adjacent to the needle element, and fluid passageways connecting input bores and the output bore. Displacement of the fluid between the input bore and the output bore applies or removes a force on the output shaft.