Outline:
Precision adjustments at the nanometre level, non-contact operation, and suitability for use in clean rooms are essential requirements in fields like super-resolution microscopy, micromanufacturing, laser beam manipulation, photonics, and optical measurement techniques. These applications frequently demand round-the-clock service without interruption. In response to these demands, PI, which specialises globally in high-accuracy motion control systems and nanoscale positioning devices, has announced rapid availability of their PIHera range of XY piezoelectric flexible nanopositioners. This series offers XY movement spans from 50 μm up to 1500 μm. The PIHera collection comprises more than sixty small-scale X, YZ, and XY positioner platforms featuring absolute measuring ultra-fine resolution capacitance gauges designed for exceptional accuracy and consistency during motions.
Smooth Vibration-Free Movement, Exceptional High-Resolution Performance, Quick Response
When compared to conventional motorised systems that use mechanical bearings, flexure-guided piezo positioning stages present numerous advantages: they ensure smooth operation devoid of vibrations, attain nearly limitless precision, and react swiftly. By omitting rolling components, this design prevents bearing noise, thereby guaranteeing consistent and true linear or flat movements. PIHera precision closed-loop XY stages integrate absolute-measuring direct-metrolology capacitive sensors, allowing resolutions as fine as 0.1 nanometres. Engineered using Finite Element Analysis for enhanced rigidity and durability, these stages boast a streamlined form factor. Unlike indirect measurement techniques reliant on strain gauges, direct metrology provides superior stability and accuracy. Their economical pricing—only 0.02% off ideal linearity—and potential adaptability for vacuums render them suitable choices for tasks requiring seamless, jitter-free, and extremely precise alignment mechanisms.
Trialled in Space, Relied on Earth
Driven by PI’s exclusive PICMA technology
®
Multilayer piezo stacks — having been rigorously tested by NASA/JPL for 100 billion cycles and employed on the Mars Rover — provide distinctive benefits for extended industrial and research uses with their broad thermal range, spanning from -20°C.
°
C to 80°
C.
Digital Motion Controller
The PIHera stages can utilise the E-727 piezo controller, which provides sophisticated motion control features specifically designed for precise nanopositioning tasks. Featuring digital servo control along with 24-bit precision, this controller facilitates sub-nanometer positional accuracy alongside excellent dynamics. It includes integrated notch filters as well as automated parameter tuning to guarantee outstanding stability and response times, particularly under rigorous high-volume conditions. Compatible with various sensor types such as capacitive, strain gauge, and piezoresistive models, the E-727 also boasts several connectivity options like USB, Ethernet, and SPI, ensuring smooth incorporation into different systems.
Industries Served
Semiconductor measurement, photonic alignment, fibre positioning, interferometry, microscopy, biotechnology, life sciences, medical technology, photonics
PI (Physik Instrumente) LP