Linear Motor Stage with Absolute Encoder Provides 2 Nanometer Resolution

25 Aug 2015

Precision motion and positioning expert PI (Physik Instrumente) recently released a new member of the PIMag^® linear motor stage family. The compact ultra-precise V-551 linear translation stage debuted at Laser World of Photonics, held in June in Munich, Germany.

V-551 comes equipped with an integrated absolute-measuring, 2nm resolution encoder – no more wasted time for referencing required. High velocity to 500mm/sec and quick acceleration is provided by a newly developed ironless magnetic linear motor, resulting in high accuracy and smooth motion. Precision crossed roller bearings with anti-creep cage assist guarantee excellent guiding accuracy (1 µm straightness / flatness per 100 mm).

Why Ironless Linear Motors?

Ironless non-cogging linear motors provide very smooth motion, and a high dynamic velocity range along with rapid acceleration. They are ideal for applications where high or extremely constant velocity is required, such as in optics inspection, metrology, photonics, interferometry, and semiconductor test equipment. The frictionless, zero-wear motor drives are also popular in fast automation applications, where reliability and maximum uptime are crucial. The V-551 is available with several travel ranges up to 230 mm.

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Affordable Solution with Compact Controller, Custom Versions for OEMs

Together with PI’s compact C-891 controller, the V-551 stage forms a flexible and affordable positioning system. A lower cost stage variant that swaps the absolute encoder with a high-resolution incremental encoder is also available, as well as custom designs for OEMs with higher resolution, peak force, and different travel ranges.

Applications of V-551

Applications include industry and research, such as optics inspection, metrology, photonics, medical engineering and precision scanning in semiconductor or flat panel display manufacturing.