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- Bioanalytics
- Scanning microscopy
- Semiconductor testing
- Micromanufacturing
- Microdispensing
- Optical device testing
- Photonics alignment &packaging
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QuickScan™ micropositioning stages of the V-106 series were designed for high-dynamics precision scanning and positioning applications, like those in biotechnology and fiber optics. They are based on zero-friction voice coil drives (linear motors), which, combined with high-precision linear encoders, offer a position resolution of 0.1 µm and minimal step size of 0.2 µm.
V-106 micropositioning stages achieve significantly higher dynamics than leadscrew-based units. The specially designed voice coil drive sys-tem makes possible scanning frequencies of some tens of hertz. With an applied load of 90 grams, the scan frequency of the V-106.11S is still 20 Hz over a travel range of 1 mm. The excellent dynamic characteristics are advantageous not only for scanning applications: positioning tasks see them as short settling times like 75 ms for 5 mm with a 90 gram load.
Direct Drive and Direct Metrology—Precise Motion The design of the V-106 is based on three key precision components:
- A frictionless voice-coil (linear motor) drive
- A non-contacting direct-motion metrology linear encoder for sub-micron repeatability
- Precision cross-roller bearings for ultra-straight and smooth motion
Unlike leadscrew-driven translation stages, the voice-coil linear-motor in the V-106 is frictionless, quiet and not subject to wear and tear. In addition, it provides higher dynamics, speed, acceleration and responsiveness (step-and-settle)- ideal features for high-throughput applications. The embedded drive also reduces the length considerably compared to conventional motor/screw-driven stages.
For highly repeatable motion, a non-contacting optical linear encoder with 0.1 µm resolution is mounted inside the stage and feeds position information back to the motion controller.
The integrated, non-contact reference switch increases versatility in automation applications.
Versatile PCI Board Controller V-106 voice coil stages can be controlled by the C-843 digital contoller in PCI plug-in-board format. C-843 controllers are equipped with on-board linear servo-amplifiers for precise control of up to four axes. This lowers system costs and simplifies setup by eliminating additional external amplifiers and cables.
Frictionless Voice Coil Linear Drives High-accuracy voice coil linear drives work on the same princi-ple as electromagnetic loudspeakers. However, for precision positioning applications, they must provide much higher forces and high stability to hold a position without jitter. They must also be designed for closed-loop operation to allow for precise positioning.
These zero-friction magnetic linear drives, characterized by their excellent dynamics, are ideally suited for scanning applications requiring travel ranges in the millimeter to centimeter range. PI offers voice coil drives in V-106 standard systems; custom systems are available on request.
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