Precision-class rotation stage

PILine® stages are particularly suitable for applications that require fast precision positioning. When switched off, the self-locking drive holds the position of the stage mechanically stable. Energy consumption and heat generation are therefore considerably reduced. Applications with a low duty cycle that are battery-powered or heat-sensitive benefit from these characteristics. The position of the axis is measured by an encoder and an optical reference switch allows reliable repeatable motion. The piezomotor drive principle and its electrical operation are inexpensive and can be customized.

PILine® ultrasonic piezomotors

An integral part of a PILine® ultrasonic piezomotor is a piezo actuator that is preloaded against a movable, guided runner via a coupling element. The piezoceramic actuator is excited to ultrasonic oscillation by a high-frequency AC voltage between 100 and 200 kHz. Deformation of the actuator leads to periodic diagonal motion of the coupling element relative to the runner. The feed created is a few nanometers per cycle; the high frequencies lead to the high velocities. Preloading the piezoceramic actuator against the runner ensures self-locking of the drive when at rest and switched off.

Highly accurate position measuring with incremental encoder

Noncontact optical encoders measure the position directly at the platform with the greatest accuracy. Nonlinearity, mechanical play, or elastic deformation have no influence on the measurement.

Crossed roller guide

With crossed roller guides, the point contact of the balls in ball guides is replaced by line contact of the hardened rollers. Consequently, they are considerably stiffer and need less preload, which reduces friction and allows smoother running. Crossed roller guides are also distinguished by high guiding accuracy and load capacity. Force-guided rolling element cages prevent cage creep.

Application fields

Micromanipulation, automation, biotechnology, sample manipulation, sample positioning, optical metrology, vacuum applications to 10-6 hPa (optional).