(pressebox) (Karlsruhe, 19.12.2006) Fast Voice Coil Scanner

Long-travel, high-dynamics V-106 scanning and positioning stages with voice coil drives have just been introduced by micro- and nanopositioning specialist Physik Instrumente (PI). The single-axis, voice coil stages are specially designed for fast scanning and positioning tasks in biotechnology, photonics and metrology. The two versions available, with 20 mm and 6 mm travel ranges, offer scanning frequencies of some tens of hertz.

Unlike leadscrew-driven translation stages, the voice coil linear-motor in the V-106 is frictionless, quiet and not subject to wear and tear. Versions of the V-106 with 20 mm travel can attain a maximum velocity of 270 mm/sec, the 6 mm version 240 mm/sec, and all feature short step-and-settling times. Reliable and precise positioning with a resolution of 0.1 µm and 0.2 µm repeatability is supported by non-contacting, optical linear encoders. Direct position metrology eliminates typical positioning errors like backlash and play.

Über Physik Instrumente (PI) SE & Co. KG: PI, a global market leader in the field of micro- and nanopositioning technology, has been developing and manufacturing standard, custom and OEM products with piezoelectric and motor drives for over 35 years. In addition to its three manufacturing centers in Germany, PI is present worldwide with eight subsidiaries and total staff of more than 400.