PI’s new 6-DOF alignment system combines high performance with maintenance-free 24/7 operation.

PI USA, a premium supplier of precision motion systems and air bearings for alignment, precision motion, metrology and automation applications, offers a new 6-axis photonics alignment system. The low-profile, 6DOF photonic alignment platform enables the highest-precision alignment and probing applications, while providing significantly higher throughput than traditional motorized alignment stages. Based on a direct-drive architecture with completely friction-free bearings and the latest, firmware-based high-speed alignment algorithms, the F-716 system is ideal for high-volume production-scale testing.

Alignment Controller with On-Board Ultra-Fast Scan and Align Algorithms
An ACS-based motion controller with novel, embedded alignment algorithms is the heart of the new photonics alignment system. The controller features embedded ultra-fast scan and alignment routines, including serpentine and circular scans, as well as a fast hill-climb gradient search. Embedded alignment routines provide higher performance since communication with an external host computer is not required. The advanced photonics alignment system can handle quasi-gaussian profiles, top-hat profiles, and other typical optical power distributions.

Why Use Air Bearing Stages?
Air bearing stages utilize a cushion of air instead of traditional, contacting roller or ball bearings, eliminating friction, the need for lubricants, and allowing for smooth, controlled movement with exceptional guiding accuracy. The lack of friction and lubricants also makes air-bearing based motion and positioning systems an ideal match for clean-room applications.

About PI
PI is a global leader in photonics alignment, precision motion control, nanopositioning stages, and automation sub-systems. Technologies include hexapods, air bearings, and piezo drives. The company was founded 5 decades ago and today employs more than 1500 people in more than 20 locations around the world with manufacturing sites in USA, Europe, and Asia. PI’s customers are leaders in high-tech industries and research institutes in fields such as photonics, life-sciences, semiconductors, and aerospace.