PI Nanopositioning Systems / Piezo Stages

Piezo Stages
PI is the world-leading supplier of piezo stage systems and nanopositioning equipment for applictions such as alignment, scanning and high-speed / high-stability precision positioning.

PI piezo nanopositioning stages & systems are equipped with computer modelled frictionless piezo flexure drives and non-contact sensors. The lack of friction makes the stages superior to conventional positioning stages based on crossed roller bearings, etc. in terms of response, repeatability (even of nanometer and sub-nanometer sized steps) straightness and flatness. Because guidance, piezoelectric drives and sensors in PI nanopositioning piezo stage systems are truly frictionless they can easily achieve repeatability and minimum incremental motion in the subnanometer realm.

Download the Nanopositioning Catalog
Nanopositioning Catalog

Linear Stages Linear Stages
XY Nano-Positioning Stages XY-Nanopositioning Stages
XYZ Nano Positioning Stages XYZ-Nanopositioning Stages
6 Axis Stages 6 Axis Stages
Tilt Stages Z & Tip/Tilt Stages
Flexure Actuators Motors /Flexure Actuators
Tilt Mirrors Fast Tip/Tilt Mirrors
Fast Focus Systems Fast Focus Systems
Single Axis Controllers Single-Axis Controllers
Multi Axis Controllers Multi-Axis Controllers
Download the Nano Positioning Solutions Download the Nanopositioning Solutions Catalog (PDF)
Nanopositioning Systems Overview Nanopositioning Systems Overview
Nano Positioning Basics Nanopositioning Basics


Piezo Nano positioning

Video: Piezo Nanopositioning - Key to
Nanometer Sized Features



Nano Positioning Stages:

Examples of Piezo Nanopositioning Stages:
Optical Microscopy Piezo Stages, Z-Stages, Objective Nanofocusing Systems
Piezo Nano Positioning Stage System Open Frame Microscope Stage Slide Scanner
PI nano™ 1x3 XYZ & XY Piezo Nano positioning Stage Systems for Supermicroscopy M-545 Open-Frame Microscope Stage Long-Range Motion for Sample Positioning High-Speed Piezo-Z Slide Scanner: Low-Profile, Low-Cost, for Super Resolution Microscopy

Z Piezo Nanopositioning Stage Objective lens positioner Microscope Stage
Z-Piezo Nanopositioning Stage for 3-D imaging, up to 500 µm travel Objective lens positioner / fast focussing system, variety of travel ranges and objective diameters Piezomotor XY-microscope stage with scanner insert. 25x25 mm travel, fast, low profile

AFM Scanning Piezo Stages, NSOM Scanning Stages, E-Beam Scanning Stages
AFM Scanning Piezo Stages Nanopositioning Stage Piezo Nanopositioning Stage
PicoCube® piezo nano positioning stage, picometer resolution, very small, 5x5x5µm closed-loop travel PIMars™ Nanopositioning stage, up to 300x300x300 µm travel, parallel kinematics & metrology for highest precision P-733 piezo nano positioning stage, non-magnetic, vacuum version. 100x100µm travel, capacitive feedback.

Low Profile Piezo Nanopositioning Systems (XY, Z, Z/Tip/Tilt) w/ aperture
Low Profile Piezo Nanopositioning Systems XY & XYZ Piezo Nanopositioning Stage Ultra Low Profile XY Scanner
100x100µm XY Version and the 100µm x 1 mrad Z-Tip/Tilt Version P-733.2DD and 3DD high-speed XY & XYZ piezo nanopositioning stage Low-cost, ultra low profile XY scanner for image dithering / sub-pixel stepping

Single Axis Piezo Nanopositioning Systems
Single Axis Piezo Nanopositioning Systems high precision capacitive feedback ultra precision flexure guidance
P-611, 100 µm entry level piezo nanopositioning stage w/ strain gauge feedback P-621.1 piezo nanopositioning stages w/ high precision capacitive feedback, 60 to 1800 µm travel. P-752 piezo nanopositioning stage with ultra precision flexure guidance

Multi-Axis Piezo Nanopositioning Stages, Z-Tip/Tilt Stages
Z-Tip/Tilt Stages Nanopositioning Stage Nano Alignment System
Z & Z-Tip/Tilt piezo nano positioning stage, up to 200 µm, 4 mrad, Parallel Kinematics, Capacitive Feedback PIMars™ piezo nano positioning stage, up to 300x300x300 µm travel, parallel kinematics & metrology for highest precision P-611 NanoCube®, NanoAlignment system, 100x100x100µm compact entry level stage w/ strain gauge feedback

6-Axis Piezo Nanopositioning Stages
6-Axis Piezo Nanopositioning Stages 6-Axis Stage 3 to 6 axis versions
P-587 piezo nano positioning stage. Up to 800 µm / 10 mrad six-axis stage, parallel kinematics & metrology for highest precision Piezo Hexapod. 6-axis stage, 10mm linear, 6° rotation. 50 kg load. PIMars™ stage, 3 to 6 axis versions, parallel kinematics & metrology for highest precision

Steering Mirrors (Tip/Tilt piezo nanopositioning stages)
Steering Mirrors S 303 phase shifter
S-334, long-travel piezo tip/tilt steering mirror. Up to 100 mrad deflection S-330, piezo tip/tilt steering mirror. Sub-millisecond response, up to 20mrad deflection S-303 phase shifter. Very fast response (25 kHz resonant frequency).

Flexure Actuators & Z-Piezo Nanopositioning Stages w/o Aperture
Flexure Actuators Z Piezo Z Piezo Nanopositioning Stages
PiezoMove® Flexure Z-Actuators / stages. Up to 480µm travel, closed-loop option. PIHera® Z-stage family. Up to 400µm, capacitive feedback, very compact P-611, 100µm entry level stage w/ strain gauge feedback

Long Travel piezo nanopositioning stages
XYZ alignment stage Long Travel Piezo Nano Positioning Stages Hybrid Stages
P-615 NanoCube® XYZ alignment stage. Up to 350 µm. Ideal for photonics alignment PIHera® XY-stage family. Up to 1800 µm, capacitive feedback, very compact M-714 and the M-511.HD Hybrid Stages. Combine piezo & servo motor technology. Up to 100 mm travel

Piezo Motors / Linear Actuators
Linear Actuators High Force Piezo Stepping Motor High Speed Piezo Motor
Novel compact OEM Piezo stepping motor / actuator with sub-nanometer precision High-force piezo stepping motor / actuator with sub-nanometer precision High-speed piezo motor / actuator

Custom Piezo Nanopositioning Stages
Miniature Stage Custom Piezo Nano-Positioning Stages Fast Tool Servo Stag
Miniature Stage for read/write head testing Lightweighted, high-load stage for faster response Fast tool servo stage for non-circular turning of metal parts.

Piezo Nanopositioning Stage Controllers & Piezo Drivers
Piezo Nano Positioning Stage Controllers OEM Piezo Controller Board Modular Piezo Nano Positioning Stage
Digital PCI piezo nano positioning stage controller, 3 axis OEM piezo controller board High-performance modular piezo nano positioning stage controller


More Links on Nanopositioning...
Hardbound PI Catalog Request the 500 page Hardbound PI Catalog
Nanopositioning Solutions Download the Nanopositioning Solutions Catalog (PDF)
Piezo Stage Overview Piezo-stage Overview (Nanopositioning & Scanning Stages)
OEM Experience OEM Experience Second to None! See the Variety of PI
     Custom Stages.

Choose PI Reasons for Choosing PI
How to Select the Right Nanopositioning System
Controller & Interfacing Choices Controller & Interfacing Choices
Nanopositioning Systems Nanopositioning Systems Selection Guide
Test and Calibration Capabilities
Parallel and Serial Kinematics Parallel and Serial Kinematics
PI Technologies Technologies that set PI apart
Nano positioning system TECHNOTE: Why Nanopositioning is not as simple as one,
     two, three.

Piezo Linear Motors Piezo Linear Motors: PiezoWalk® vs. Ultrasonics
More Technotes More Technotes

Measuring Nanometers: Stage Metrology Selection
Achieving nanometer and subnanometer precision requires more than a piezo-driven stage capable of making moves on this precision scale. The stage internal metrology system must also be capable of measuring motion on the nanometer scale. The primary characteristics to consider when selecting a stage metrology system are linearity, sensitivity (resolution), stability, bandwidth, and cost. Other factors include the ability to measure the moving platform directly and contact vs. noncontact metrology. Three types of sensors are typically used in piezoelectric nano positioning applications — capacitive, strain, and LVDT. See Table 1 below for a summary of the characteristics of each sensor type.

PI capacitive sensors measure the gap between two plates based on electrical capacitance. These sensors can be designed to become an integral part of a nano positioning system, with virtually no effect on size and mass (inertia). Capacitive sensors offer the highest resolution, stability, and bandwidth. They enable direct measurement of the moving platform and are noncontact. Capacitive sensors also offer the highest linearity (accuracy). PI's capacitive sensors / control electronics use a high-frequency AC excitation signal for enhanced bandwidth and drift-free measurement stability (subnanometer stability over several hours, see here). PI’s exclusive ILS linearization system further improves system linearity. If used with PI’s digital controllers, digital polynomial linearization of mechanics and electronics makes possible overall system linearity of better than 0.01%. Capacitive sensors are the metrology system of choice for the most demanding applications.

A strain gauge sensor is a resistive film bonded to a piezo stack or—for enhanced precision—to the guiding system of a flexure stage. It offers high resolution and bandwidth and is typically chosen for cost-sensitive applications. As a contact type sensor, it measures indirectly, in that the position of the moving platform is inferred from a measurement at the lever, flexure or stack. PI employs full-bridge implementations with multiple strain gauges per axis for enhanced thermal stability. PI's PICMA® drive technology also enables higher performance of actuator-applied strain gauge sensors.

LVDT sensors measure magnetic energy in a coil. A magnetic core attached to the moving platform moves within a coil attached to the frame producing a change in the inductance equivalent to the position change. LVDT sensors provide noncontact, direct measurements of position. They are cost-effective and offer high stability and repeatability.
 
Table 1
Sensor Type Sensitivity* (Resolution) Linearity* Stability* / Repeatability Bandwidth* Metrology Type Excitation Signal
Capacitive Best Best Best Best Direct / Noncontact AC
Strain Better Good Good Better Inferred ** (Infect) / Contact DC
LVDT Good Good Better Good Direct / Noncontact AC
 
* Note. The ratings describe the influence of the sensor on the performance of the complete nanopositioning system. Resolution, linearity, repeatability, etc. specifications in the PI product data sheets indicate the performance of the system including the controller, mechanics and sensor. They are verified using advanced external nanometrology equipment such as Zygo Interferometers. It is important not to confuse these figures with the theoretical performance of the sensor alone.

** Strain type sensors (metal foil, semiconductor, or piezoresistive) infer position information from strain.

Nanopositioning System Selection Guide Ultra-Low-Inertia Nano positioning Systems,
Ultra-High Precision Position Sensors

Ultra-low-inertia solid-state piezo systems can repeatedly move bidirectional nanometer level steps, at up to hundreds of Hz if required.

PI offers the largest variety of custom and standard ultra-low inertia Nano-Positioning solutions.




Examples of Parallel-Kinematics / Metrology NanoPositioning Systems

Nano positioning stage

530 page PI Catalog

hardbound Get the 530 p. hardbound,
     PI Catalog

Capacitive position sensors are the metrology system of choice for the most demanding applications.

Two plate capacitive sensors ensure highest precision, linearity and longterm stability. These absolute-measuring, non-contact sensors detect motion at sub-nanometer levels directly (direct metrology) and provide linearity, accuracy, resolution, stability and bandwidth superior to strain gauge type sensors (piezo resistive sensors), LVDT sensors and incremental encoders (glass scale type encoders). If used in parallel-kinematics multi-axis piezo nano-positioning systems they can also provide the information for automatic runout-compensation.

Minimized recoil forces are a by-product of the ultra-low-inertia approach. Classical motorized stages, even when equipped with high-resolution encoders cannot achieve this precision. Their higher inertia, friction, and servo dither prevent fast motion at the nanometer level.

PI Capacitive Position SensorsClick here for more information on PI Capacitive Position Sensors
Nano positioning system Selection GuideJump to the Nanopositioning Selection Guide!


Flexures for Superior Guiding Accuracy

Because flexure motion is based on the elastic deformation (flexing) of a solid material, friction and stiction are entirely eliminated. Flexures exhibit high load capacity, stiffness, and resistance to shock and vibration. Flexures are maintenance free and not subject to wear. They are vacuum compatible, operate over a wide temperature range and require neither lubricants nor compressed air for operation, as air bearings do.

Not all flexures are created equal! PI multi-axis nano positioning systems are based on FEA calculated wire-EDM-cut parallel-kinematics flexure designs.

These multilink flexure guiding systems eliminate cosine errors and provide bidirectional flatness and straightness in the nanometer or microradian range. This high precision means that even the most demanding positioning tasks can be run bidirectionally for higher throughput.

nano positioning systems
Wire-EDM cutting process provides highest-accuracy flexure guiding systems in compact nanopositioning stages.
Typical 0.5 µrad bidirectional trajectory repeatability (P-752.11C piezo nanopositioning stage) means processes may be performed bidirectionally for twice the productivity (graph, right)
nano positioning system

Piezoelectric Actuators Lifetime / Long Life PICMA® Piezoelectric Actuators

PI nano positioning systems employ the award-winning PICMA® piezoelectric actuators, the only actuators with co-fired ceramic encapsulation. The PIMCA® piezo technology was specifically developed by PI’s piezoceramic division to provide higher performance and lifetime in nano-positioning applications.

Piezoelectric multilayer actuators are similar to ceramic capacitors and are not affected by wear and tear. PI nano positioning systems are designed to provide long travel at lower voltages than most other piezo systems. The research literature, PI’s own test data and 30+ years of experience, all confirm that lower average electric fields lead to longer lifetime.



Nanopositioning Linear StageNanopositioning Linear Stage Selection Guide!
Nanopositioning Multiaxis StageNanopositioning Multiaxis Stage Selection Guide!
Nanopositioning Stage Selection GuideTip/Tilt & Z- Nanopositioning Stage Selection Guide!


Active Trajectory Control is avail-
able on single-module parallel-metrology nano positioning systems. It can improve straight-
ness and flatness to sub-nano-
meter precision. Digital control-
lers with advanced coordinate transformation algorithms allow active trajectory control for up to 6 DoF.

Active Trajectory Control significantly improves guid-
ing precision. It requires a
Parallel Metrology
Sensor setup.

Active Trajectory Control

Active Trajectory Control


DDL Improves Scanning Linearity up to 1000-Fold

Improves Scanning Linearity
Elliptical scan in a laser micro-drilling application with XY piezo stage, conventional controller. The outer curve describes the target position, the inner curve shows the actual motion of the piezo stage.


nanopositioning bottom
Same scan as before, with Dynamic Digital Linearization. The tracking error has been reduced to a few nanometers, real and target positions are indiscernable in the graph

Preshaping™ algorithms and dynamic digital linearization can increase the dynamic linearity and effective bandwidth of high-speed piezo nano positioning systems by up to 3 orders of magnitude. This translates into higher dynamic accuracy, and increased throughput.

Conventional PID (proportional-integral-derivative) piezo controllers cannot completely eliminate phase lag and tracking errors (the difference between actual and target positions) in dynamic operation. This is due to the nonlinear nature of piezoelectric material (PZT), the limited control bandwidth, and the fact that a PID controller needs to see an error before it attempts to correct it.

DDL solves this problem. PI offers DDL as an option for digital controllers such as the E-710. This PI-exclusive technology reduces tracking errors (the difference between the commanded position and actual position) and phase lag in dynamic applications to virtually indiscernible levels. The result is an improvement in dynamic linearity and usable bandwidth of up to three orders of magnitude. Dynamic Digital Linearization works both in single-axis and multi axis applications (see graphs).

nanopositioning


Nanopositioning Stage Selection GuideJump to the Nanopositioning Stage Selection Guide!


Mach™ Throughput Processor Eliminates Self-Generated Vibration, Increases Throughput, Scanning Speed, Accuracy

Vibration Elimination

Vibration Elimination

The example above shows ringing of a poorly damped component on a high-speed piezo nanopositioning stage. While the closed-loop piezo stage settles perfectly, the component cannot keep up. Conventional solutions to this problem would involve slowing down the Nanopositioning stage. Mach™ eliminates ringing without sacrificing speed. It does not even require retuning of the servo system.

The exclusive Mach™ Throughput Processor™ eliminates resonant ringing, allowing rapid motion without a settling phase.This technique also eliminates resonances excited in neighboring components, outside the nano positioning system's servo loop. The result is significantly increased throughput.


Self-generated vibration affects:

  • The load and fixturing that the nanopositioner actuates

  • The supporting structure on which the nanopositioner is mounted

  • All other components attached to the supporting structure

nanopositioner actuatesVibration Elimination
The example above shows vibrations induced at the beginning of a saw-tooth scan, typical in image acquisition applications. The vibration results in lower image quality. Mach™ improves the image quailtiy; there is no need to reduce the scanning frequency or chang the mechanical components in the system. Mach™ is available as a firmware option for several PI Digital Piezo Controllers and also as an upgrade option for analog controllers.

This technology is protected by one or more of the following US and foreign Patents licensed from Convolve, Inc.: US 4,916,635; US 5,638,267; 0433375 Europe; 067152 Korea, and other Patents pending. Mach™, Throughput Coprocessor™ and NanoAutomation® are trademarks of Polytec PI, Inc. Input Shaping™ is a trademark of Convolve, Inc.


Nanopositioning Selection GuideJump to the Nanopositioning Selection Guide!

Parallel Kinematics Piezo-Driven Nanopositioning Systems
Serial Kinematics vs. Parallel Kinematics in Nanopositioning Systems


Nanopositioning SystemNested Serial Kinematics FlexureFlexure Nanopositioning System
Stacked Serial Kinematics Flexure Nanopositioning System
  • Simple Design, but:
  • Slower response (lower stage carries inertial mass of upper stage);
  • Non-symmetric resonant frequencies (lower stage is slower than upper stage, requires different servo settings).
  • Orthogonality error is mounting-angle dependant.
  • Runout in Y cannot be monitored/compensated by the sensor in the X stage or vice versa.
Nested Serial Kinematics Flexure Nanopositioning System
  • Thinner and better response than Stacked Serial Kinematics, but no other advantages
Parallel Kinematics / Metrology Flexure Nanopositioning System
  • Same ultra-low inertia for X and Y motion, providing higher responsiveness and axis-independent performance.
  • Excellent, mounting independent orthogonality.
  • Parallel Metrology for reduced runout: X sensor (PI uses non-contact two plate capacitance sensors) can monitor and correct for Y runout and vice versa (Active Trajectory Control).
  • Additional rotation axis (Theta Z) feasible with 3 actuators / sensors and digital controller.
More Parallel KinematicsMore Parallel Kinematics: Hexapods

Nanopositioning Stage Selection Guide
Piezo Actuator Selection GuideJump to Piezo Actuator Selection Guide

Compact Stages Compact Stages Without Sensors
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-713 Compact XY-piezo stage scanner, fast. XY 15 -
P-280 Nanopositioning piezo stage,
XY and XYZ combinations.
X 30, 50, 100 -
P-290 Nanopositioning Z-piezo stage. Long travel range Z 1000 -
P-287 Z-axis and tip/tilt nanopositioning stage,
long travel range.
Z, θx 700, 12 mrad -
P-772 Ultracompact Flexure Guided Piezo System X 10 -
Objective Nanofocusing Systems Objective Nanofocusing Systems / Z-Stages
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-725 PIFOC®. objective nanofocusing system,
compact, light-weight, long travel ranges,
QuickLock mounting system, direct metrology.
Z 100, 250, 400 Capacitive
P-721.CDQ
P-721.LLQ
PIFOC®. objective nanofocusing Piezo system,
very fast and accurate,
with QuickLock mounting system, direct metrology.
Z 100 Capacitive / LVDT
P-720 PIFOC®. objective nanofocusing system,
very compact, without sensors.
Z 100 -
P-541.Z Low-profile Z-stage, 80 x 80 mm aperture. Z 100 Capacitive / SGS
Axis Stages with Strain Gauge Sensors Closed-Loop 1- and 2-Axis Stages with Strain Gauge Sensors
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-611.1,
P-611.2
Compact, low-cost X and XY Piezo nanopositioning stages. X, XY 100 SGS
P-611.ZS,
P-611.XZS
Compact, low-cost X and XY Piezo nanopositioning stages. Z, XZ 100 SGS
Axis Stages with Direct Metrology Sensors Closed-Loop Single-Axis Stages with Direct Metrology Sensors
       (Direct metrology provides increased accuracy)
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-601 Flexure-Guided OEM Piezo Actuator Z 400 SGS/-
P-622.Z -
P-622.Z
PIHera® Z-axis Piezo nanopositioners, compact,
very accurate, long travel range.
Z 50, 100, 250 Capacitive
P-772 Piezo Nanopositioning stage, very compact, fast and accurate X 10 Capacitive
P-780 Piezo Nanopositioning stage, compact, fast, stainless steel X 80 LVDT
P-750 High-load nanopositioning stage,
very good guidance, high stiffness.
X 75 Capacitive / LVDT
P-752 Nanopositioning stage. Very fast and
accurate, outstanding guiding accuracy.
X 15, 30 Capacitive
P-753 Piezo Nanopositioning stage and actuator in one,
very compact, fast and accurate.
Z & X 12, 25, 38 Capacitive
P-620.1 -
P-628.1
PIHera® piezo nanopositioners, compact,
very accurate, long travel ranges, excellent value
X (XY, Z) 50, 100, 250, 500, 950 Capacitive
Multi-Axis Stages Multi-Axis Stages, Modular Stages (Serial Kinematics)
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-281 /
P-282
Compact open-loop, modular,
piezo nanopositioning stages.
XY, XYZ 30, 50, 100 -
P-612 Compact, low-cost, XY piezo stage. 100 x 100 µm travel,
clear aperture.
XY 100 x 100 SGS
P-611.3 NanoCube® XYZ piezo alignment system,
compact, very cost-effective.
XYZ 100 SGS
P-620.2 -
P-625.2
PIHera® XY piezo nanopositioners,
Very compact & accurate (direct metrology),
long travel range.
XY (Z, XYZ) 50, 100, 250, 500 Capacitive
Multi-Axis Stages Multi-Axis Stages, Parallel Kinematics / Parallel Metrology
       (Parallel kinematics and parallel metrology allow active trajectory control, better dynamics and higher multi-axis precision)
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-615 NanoCube® 350C XYZ piezo alignment system,
clear aperture, ideal for fiber alignment.
XYZ to 350 / Axis Capacitive
P-363 PicoCube® high-precision piezo system for AFM, SPM,
nanomanipulation; 50 picometer resolution.
XY, XYZ 5 / Axis Capacitive
P-541
P-542
Low profile XY scanning stage
80 x 80 mm aperture.
XY to 200 in XY Capacitive
P-733 XY piezo scanning stage 50 x 50 mm aperture,
vacuum versions available.
XY 100 x 100 Capacitive
P-733.2DD /
P-733.3DD
High-speed scanning piezo stage, XY and
XYZ versions, ideal for tasks like scanning microscopy.
XY, XYZ 30 x 30 (x10) Capacitive
P-734 XY nanoscanning stage, extremely flat and straight
(1 – 2 nm); 56 x 56 mm clear aperture..
XY 100 x 100 Capacitive
P-734 PInano™ Z Scanner, Low-Profile, Low-Cost, Nanopositioning System for Super Resolution Microscopy Z 100, 200 Piezo Resistive
P-517 -
P-527
Multi-axis stage 66 x 66 mm clear aperture,
custom model with 6 degrees of freedom available.
XY, XYZ,
XYθz
to 200 in XY,
10 in Z,
to 2 mrad
Capacitive
P-561.3DD PIMars™ XYZ scanning stages,
faster, direct drive, excellent guidance,
66 x 66 mm clear aperture.
XY, XYZ 45 XY, 11 Z Capacitive
P-561 -
P-563
PIMars™ multi-axis stages; travel range
to 300 x 300 x 300 µm , 66 x 66 mm clear aperture,
custom model with 6 degrees of freedom available.
XY, XYZ to
300 x 300 x 300
Capacitive
P-587 6-axis-nanopositioning stage. XYZ, θxθyθz up to 800 /
10 mrad
Capacitive
P-518 -
P-558
Z-axis and tip/tilt platforms clear aperture Z, θxθy to 200 in Z,
4 mrad
Capacitive
Steering Mirrors Z-Axis and Tip/Tilt Platforms
       Tip/tilt platforms / mirrors see "Active Optics / Steering Mirrors" section
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-541.Z Low-profile Z-stage, 80 x 80 mm aperture. Z & Z,
Tip/Tilt
100 Capacitive / SGS
P-518 -
P-558
Z-axis and tip/tilt platforms 66 x 66 mm
clear aperture
Z & Z,
Tip/Tilt
to 200 in Z,
4 mrad
Capacitive
P-620.Z -
P-622.Z
PIHera® Z-axis nanopositioners, compact,
very accurate, long travel range.
Z 50, 100, 250 Capacitive
P-611.ZS,
P-611.XZS
Compact, low-cost Z and XY nanopositioning stages Z, XZ 100 SGS
P-783 Nanopositioning Z-stage. Long travel range, compact. Z 300 LVDT
P-290 Nanopositioning Z-stage, very long travel range,
open-loop.
Z 1000 -
P-287 Z-axis and tip/tilt nanopositioning stage,
long travel range, open-loop.
Z, θx 700, 12 mrad -
Scanning Microscopy Stages with Clear Aperture Scanning (Microscopy) Stages with Clear Aperture
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-725 PIFOC® objective nanofocusing system,
compact, light-weight, long travel ranges,
QuickLock mounting system, direct metrology
Z 100, 250, 400 Capacitive
P-541.Z Low-profile Z-stage, 80 x 80 mm aperture Z & Z,
Tip/Tilt
100 Capacitive / SGS
P-518 -
P-558
Z-axis and tip/tilt platforms
clear aperture Tip/Tilt
Z & Z to 200 in Z,
4 mrad
Capacitive
P-612 Compact, low-cost, XY stage. 100 x 100 µm travel,
clear aperture.
XY 100 x 100 SGS
P-541
P-542
Low profile XY scanning stage
80 x 80 mm aperture
XY to 200 in XY Capacitive / SGS
P-545 PI nano™ XY(Z) low profile piezo stage for superresolution microscopy, large aperture, includes advanced controller: 24-Bit, USB, TCP/IP, RS-232 and Analog Interface M-545 manual stage option XY(Z) to 200
x 200
x 200 µm
Piezo Resistive
P-733 XY piezo scanning stage 50 x 50 mm aperture,
vacuum versions available.
XY 100 x 100 Capacitive
P-733.2DD,
P-733.3DD
High-speed scanning stage, XY and
XYZ versions, ideal for tasks like scanning microscopy
XY, XYZ 30 x 30 (x10) Capacitive
P-734 XY nanoscanning stage, extremely flat and straight
(1 – 2 nm); 56 x 56 mm clear aperture.
XY 100 x 100 Capacitive
P-736 XY Piezo Nanopositioner Stage,.
200 x 200 mm clear aperture.
Z 200 x 200 LVDT
P-517,
P-527
Multi-axis stage 66 x 66 mm clear aperture,
custom model with 6 degrees of freedom available.
XY, XYZ, XYθz to 200 in XY,
20 in Z,
to 4 mrad
Capacitive
P-561 -
P-563
PIMars multi-axis stages; travel range.
to 300 x 300 x 300 µm , 66 x 66 mm clear aperture, custom model with 6 degrees of freedom available
XY, XYZ to 300 x 300 x 300 Capacitive
6-Axis Parallel Kinematics Stages 6-Axis Parallel Kinematics Stages
Models* Description Axes Travel [µm] Sensor
P-587 6-axis-nanopositioning stage XYZ, θxθyθz up tp 800 / 10 mrad Capacitive

* Ask about custom sizes, sensors or special designs.
Capacitive and LVDT sensors are direct metrology devices.
Capacitive sensors provide the highest accuracy, bandwidth and linearity.


Introduction to Piezoelectric Nanopositioning Actuators (Nano-Transducers)

Piezo Actuators (PZT) are ultra-high-resolution Nano-Transducers for a variety of applications from Nanotechnology to Aerospace and Biotechnology. PI offers the largest selection Piezo Actuators and Translators (linear actuators) worldwide, for scientific and and industrial applications. In addition to the hundreds of standard models, we manufacture custom designs tailored to customers’ requirements. PI is highly vertically integrated, controlling each manufacturing step from piezo raw materials to finished systems.


Applications for Piezo Actuators
Award-Winning PICMA® Piezo Technology
PI's Piezoceramics Division (PI Ceramic Website)
Piezo Actuator Experience
Mounting Guidelines for Piezo Actuators
Piezo-University: Designing with Piezoelectrics
PILine Ultrasonic Linear Piezomotors / Stages.

Nanopositioning Systems, Scanning Stages



Piezo Actuators, Piezo Ceramics Selection Guide
Jump to Nanopositioning Stages Selection Guide

Piezo Stack Actuators with No Casing: Mini Actuators (Chip), PICMA ® Multilayer, PICA- & PICA-Power Actuators
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
PL022
PL033
PL055
PICMA®-Chip.
Smallest multilayer piezo actuators,
from 2 x 2 x 2 mm
tos 1000 / 5** 2, 3 -
P-882 -
P-888
PICMA® piezo actuators with cofired ceramic
encapsulation, long lifetime,
cross-sections: 2 x 3 to 10 x 10 mm
to 4000 / 20** 5, 9, 15, 30 -
P-007 -
P-056
PICA™-Stack piezo actuators,
wide variety, high-force capacity
to 80000 / 300** 5 to 300 optional
P-010.xxP -
P-056.xxP
PICA™-Power. stack actuators, wide variety,
for high-level dynamics and high temperatures
to 80000 / 300** 5 to 300 optional
Small Piezo Stack Actuators With Steel Casing
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-810 Only 6 mm diameter, ferromagnetic end pieces 50 / 1 15, 30, 45 -
P-820 Smallest preloaded piezo translator 50 / 10 15, 30, 45 -
P-250 Piezo tip for micrometer 100 / 5 20 -
P-830 Compact, ferromagnetic endpieces 1000 / 5 15, 30, 45, 60 -
Preloaded Piezo Stack Actuators for Medium Loads, with Position Sensor (optional)
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-840 /
P-841
Preloaded, optional ball tip 1000 / 50 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 SGS
P-842 /
P-843
Preloaded, higher tensile limit than P-840 800 / 300 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 SGS
P-170 -
P-178
Variety of tips available 2000 / 50 5, 10, 20, 40, 80 SGS
P-212, P-216
P-225, P-235
Preloaded, very high stiffness,
optional waterproof case.
2000 / 300,
4500 /500
15 to 120,
15 to 180
SGS
Preloaded High-load Piezo Stack Actuators, with Position Sensor (optional)
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-844 /
P-845
Preloaded, optional waterproof case 3000 / 700 15, 30, 45, 60, 90 SGS
Preloaded Ultra High-load Piezo Stack Actuators, with Position Sensor (optional)
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-212, P-216
P-225, P-235
Preloaded, very high stiffness,
optional waterproof case.
2000 / 300,
4500 /500
15 to 120,
15 to 180
SGS
Ultra-High-Precision Actuators with Flexure Guidance and Direct Metrology Sensors
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-753 Flexure guidance, ultra-precise 100 / 20 12, 25, 38 Capacitive, directmetrology
Actuators with Long Travel Ranges (up to 1 mm) and Flexure Guidance
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-290 Long-range piezo translator, 1 mm travel,
with flexure guidance
50 / 10 1000 -
P-287 Travel range to 0.7 mm, with flexure guidance, rotation to 12 mrad 80 / 10 700 µm, 12 mrad -
Shear Actuators: X, XY, XYZ
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-111 -
P-151
PICA™-Shear shear-effect actuator: Compact, X, XY, XYZ, e.g. for scanning-microscopy, optional clear aperture 10 to 300 1 to 10 x 10 x 10 -
Piezo Tube and Tubular Stack (Ring) Actuators
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
P-010.xxH -
P-025.xxH
PICA™-Thru ring actuators combine the advantages of piezo tubes with the high forces of stack actuators to 60000 / 250** 5 to 300 optional
PT120 -
PT140
PT-Tube piezo tube actuators, minimum tolerances 0,1 / 0,1 4, 6, 8 -
Bender Actuators / Bimorph Actuators (travel ranges to 2 mm)
Models* Description Compressive /
Tensile Limits [N]
Travel [µm] Sensor
PL122 -
PL140
PICMA® multilayer bender actuators, cofired ceramic encapsulation, low operating voltage 1 / 1 500, 900, 2000 -
P-871 PICMA® multilayer bender actuators with position sensors 1 / 1 160 bis 1600 -
P-288 Disk translators (flat, long travel range) 10 / 5 50 -
P-286 /
P-289
Disk translators (flat, long travel range) 20 / 10 100, 200 -
Linear Actuator Piezo Motor Linear Piezomotors and Long-Travel Actuators


* Ask about custom sizes, sensors or special designs.
** Preloading increases tensile force capacity
SGS = high-resolution strain gauge sensor LVDT = Linear Variable Differential Transformer
Further information about piezoceramics can be found in the PI Ceramic catalog or at www.piceramic.de.