New SQL-3405 closed-loop linear positioning stage is smallest on the market

28 Jun 2006

Tiny 25 mm linear stage has long travel for automating laser tracking, optical microscopes and other research instruments

Victor, NY – June 27, 2006 – New Scale Technologies, Inc. (www.newscaletech.com) announces the tiny SQL-3405 motorized linear po­sitioning stage for biological research, optical instruments and other micropositioning needs. At 25 x 25 x 10 mm, the SQL-3405 is the smallest closed-loop stage on the market. It delivers automated, “set and hold” micropositioning for optical microscopy, laser alignment, and other applications where space is at a premium. The SQL-3405 stage is driven by an integral piezoelectric SQUIGGLE motor that provides precise incremental motion of 100 nanometers. An integral position sensor provides closed-loop control with a resolution of 10 micrometers. Its long 5-mm travel range provides for automatic positioning without manual pre-alignment and tweaking. SQL-3405 stages use precision ball bearing guides and are easily assembled to create X-Y and X-Y-Z systems. End-of-travel limits and modular connectors facilitate fast integration into the customer’s system. New Scale offers both bench top controllers and OEM drive cards. Multi-axis systems (one controller per axis) can be controlled from a single Windows/PC application. Alternatively, the ActiveX command library can be called from LabVIEW or customized scripts. The controllers also accept commands via analog input or a manual handset. SQL-3405 Motorized Closed-Loop Stage Specifications Dimensions: 25 x 25 x 10 mm Travel range: 5 mm Maximum speed: 5 mm/s Closed-loop resolution (sensor): 10 micrometers Open-loop resolution (motor): 0.1 micrometers Axial load (push force): 2 N Holding force: 5 N About the SQUIGGLE motor The patented SQUIGGLE motor uses a threaded nut and screw to create precise linear movement in a very small space. Piezoelectric ceramics create ultrasonic vibrations in the nut, causing the screw to rotate and translate with high precision. SQUIGGLE motors are smaller, more precise, less expensive and more efficient than conventional electromagnetic motors. In addition, they use 90 percent fewer parts and require no gear reduction, which eliminates many failure modes. The patented ultrasonic motor design has much lower power consumption than miniature electromagnetic motors and holds its position when the power is turned off, further conserving battery life. This ceramic motor is fundamentally compatible with high magnetic fields including MRI chambers. SQUIGGLE motors are used in nanotechnology research, microelectronics, optics, lasers, biotechnology, medical devices, aerospace and defense, fluid control, and office/consumer products including mobile phone cameras. About New Scale Technologies New Scale Technologies, Inc. (www.newscaletech.com) makes miniature ceramic motors that enable our customers to create smaller products and research tools. Our piezoelectric SQUIGGLE motors are smaller, more efficient and more precise than conventional motors. With very few parts and no gears, this patented piezoelectric motor design uses ultrasonic vibrations to create precise linear motion. New Scale’s miniature motors are compatible with extreme environments including vacuum, very low (sub-Kelvin) temperatures, and high magnetic fields. SQUIGGLE is a registered trademark of New Scale Technologies, Inc. For more information contact: Fred Haas, Sales Manager New Scale Technologies, Inc. Phone (585) 924-4450 fhaas@newscaletech.com www.newscaletech.com For medical device applications contact New Scale Technologies’ exclusive worldwide distributor for medical applications of the SQUIGGLE motor: Biophan Technologies, Inc. Phone (585) 214-2441 techsales@biophan.com