New Fiber Allignment Software for the F-206 Mini-Hexapod  

Fig. 14: Hex-control software: flat-scan intensity distribution plot of a fiber optic component

Fig. 15: Hex-control software: spatial representation of the F-206 platform with respect to the origin and the pivot point
New Hex-Control host software is now available for the F-206 six-axis micropositioning and handling systems. These windows (95/98 & NT) applications feature manual operation as well as fully automatic scanning and auto alignment. Further, Hex-Control evaluates the F-206 controller analog-input data?for example, optical power meter signals?and optimizes the position until maximum intensity is reached. The results are presented as a 3D graphical plot (Fig. 14).   Some F-206 specifications:
  • Fully automated 6D system for photonics packaging and micro-handling applications
  • 6 mm travel range along X, Y & Z
  • 5deg rotation about X,Y & Z
  • Point of rotation can be freely selected
  • 0.1 µm min. inc motion (30 nm resolution)
  • Optional NanoCube scan and alignment module providing 1 nm resolution
The F-206 platform position is depicted in 3D-space in manual mode with respect to the coordinate origin and the freely adjustable pivot point (Fig. 15). Increment, scanning region, intensity threshold and all other crucial parameters can be called-up and configured via intuitive, user-friendly menus in all modes of operation.

Fig. 16: Optional NanoCube scan and alignment module providing1 nm resolution