May 04, 2017
In the semiconductor industry or photonics applications, components often need to be precisely positioned for each single processing step and then held in a stable position reliably. Similarly, the same also applies to samples during X-ray examinations. PI (Physik Instrumente) now offers a practical solution for those types of and similar applications with the SpaceFab Q-845:
The extremely accurate parallel-kinematic positioning system can not only position loads up to 1 kg in six degrees of freedom with nanometer precision, but also keep them in a long-term stable position. The basis of this is made up of six linear stages, which are arranged respectively in three 90-degree-offset double stacks acting on a motion platform. This allows them to achieve a maximum travel range of ±7 mm in the X and Y directions and ±5 mm in the Z direction. The rotation range of the three rotational axes are a maximum of ±7° (in θX, θY) or ± 8 degrees (in θZ). Piezoelectric inertia drives are the driving force for the linear stages. Thanks to their holding torque at rest, no energy is consumed while holding at the target position and no heat is generated. This means that the positioning systems are also suitable for applications in a vacuum (vacuum compatible
to 10-6hPa).
Mounting in any Spatial Arrangement
Mounting of the long-term stable positioning system is possible in any spatial arrangement. The quality of the preloaded Cardan und linear bearings allows the same performance in "upside down" or "lateral hanging" applications. The construction allows adaptation to the respective load case, but other customer requirements can also be realized within a very short time. The C-886 multi-axis controller is recommended for control, which can be easily integrated into the system and, with the help of the PIMikroMove software, allows user-friendly control. Corresponding software modules are available for integration into external applications such as Matlab, LabView etc. If required, the controller is able to control drives for two additional axes via add-on cards.
For more information, refer to:
PI in Brief
Well known for the high quality of its products, PI (Physik Instrumente) has been one of the leading players in the global market for precision positioning technology for many years. PI has been developing and manufacturing standard and OEM products with piezo or motor drives for more than 40 years. In addition to four locations in Germany, the PI Group is represented internationally by fifteen sales and service subsidiaries.
