When it comes to X-Y positioning, it’s not always possible to set up the stage as precisely as you would like. Although finding accurate, high-performing stages isn’t difficult, the design and construction of these stages create obstacles that make it hard to perform side work, access certain parts of the stage, fit into a tight space or make modifications if necessary. Fortunately, it is possible to get these elements and other attributes in an accurate, high-performance positioning stage. This blog post will describe one such table and the unique construction elements that give users exceptional freedom and flexibility.

Moving Motors or Cables No Longer a Problem
Many conventional X-Y stages are designed with layered one-shaft actuators. While effective, they are also imperfect. Typical X-Y stages layered with one-shaft actuators are hampered by cables and moving motors close to the stage, making access difficult from the outside.

That’s why IKO has developed the PD…S parallel drive stage. Designed with low sectional height in mind, the PD…S includes a mechanism that converts the ball screw actuator’s linear motion into X-Y motion via two parallel shafts. Not only does this create a lightweight and compact unit, the arrangement of two motors in one direction provides an open, accessible work area for easy, flexible designs and customizations.

Along with X-Y motion, the stage can also provide diagonal and circular motion. Precision is assured for every operation thanks to an integrated maintenance-free IKO C-Lube ML Linear Motion Rolling Guide. Additional features of the PS…S include:

• Highly accurate positioning.
• Motors stay in a fixed position as the table operates.
• No extra space needed to prevent interference.
• No wiring or cable carriers required.

Accuracy and Access
Thanks to the PD…S X-Y parallel drive stage, you can achieve the accuracy your application requires while also having the ability to access the stage top and sides to make any necessary modifications. When your application calls for a highly accurate positioning stage in a compact size, you don’t have to sacrifice workability and performance. IKO sales engineers are ready to assist you in selecting an ideal PD…S X-Y parallel drive stage.

For more information, please visit our product page.