ALIO meets growing metrology needs with nano-level precision motion system
“The system is the cornerstone of exact positioning and movement for the measurement process.”
ALIO Industries continues to redefine precision in motion control as they hope to address the growing needs of the metrology sector. The motion control technology specialist’s system is designed to achieve nanometre-level precision, with the aim of meeting industries’ ever-growing need for finer measurements and improved metrology tools.
Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) set the requirements they need to continue to innovate 3D metrology instruments. ALIO must work to fulfil these requirements so that OEMs can meet the needs of the demanding market.
“The system is the cornerstone of exact positioning and movement for the measurement process,” said Bill Hennessy, the Founder and President of ALIO Industries, on its motion system. “Any deficiencies within the motion system, such as mechanical backlash, hysteresis, or non-linear responses, could lead to measurement inaccuracies, undermining even the finest sensors and encoders.”
“By adopting a motion system that matches or excels beyond the quality of these components, such as discrepancies are minimised, harnessing the full potential of the high-performance sensors and encoders.”
Key features of effective motion systems:
- Stability and accuracy: This ensures sensors' and encoders' secure position and orientation during the measurement process. Otherwise, vibration or deviations can skew readings.
- Resolution: The motion system must have a resolution either on par or better than the sensors and encoders to ensure maximum accuracy.
- Synchronised movements: When multiple sensors and encoders are used in the metrology process, synchronicity allows for accurate timings between each component. This, in turn, ensures the consistency and dependability of readings.
- Responsiveness: Sensors and encoders must be repositioned rapidly and fluidly to eliminate potential errors or delays.
“ALIO is ahead of the curve with its advanced offerings such as near air-bearing performance crossed roller bearing XY Nano Metrology stages, which provide up to 450mm of travel,” continued Hennessey.
“These stages use DC Servo linear motors, offering motion performance with outstanding precision and repeatability, with 3-Sigma, 6-D (linear, straightness, flatness, pitch, yaw, and roll) and bi-directional repeatability of less than +/- 250nm. In other words, the volumetric bi-directional repeatability of any XY point is within a sphere of 500nm or less.”
The XY Nano Metrology stages are highly regarded and fulfil the key features previously discussed. ALIO believes the stages are the ideal solution for organisations providing industrial and scientific applications.