Two-axis, Torque-Stabilized, Passive Micro-Positioner for Precision Mechanical Instrumentation
Introduction A variety of passive micro-positioners are available on the market today. Most, however, are scaled-down versions of conventional large positioners. This invention is an entirely new configuration which has been designed specifically for micro applications. Technology description Researchers at the UW have developed a two-axis linear positioning mechanism for manual relative translation of objects. Such positioning is frequently needed in many types of high-precision mechanical and optical instrumentation. A typical application is positioning of components during the setup of an atomic force microscope. The mechanism is entirely unlike, and overcomes problems inherent to, commercially available positioners, particularly in applications where size, precision, and rigidity are important. Business opportunity Characteristics of the invention (in a typical implementation) include: 1) small size(12 mm X 12 mm), 2) zero-backlash, 3) one-micrometer positioning precision, 4)
lockable, without disturbing position, 5) cryogenic compatibility, 6) high rigidity, 7)
1.3 mm range on each axis, 8) low-cost manufacture, and 9) easily incorporated in designs requiring positioning of multiple objects. Stage of development Initial data and working prototypes exist for this technology. Intellectual property position This technology is available for licensing. The UW is currently reviewing this technology for worldwide patent protection.
Type of Offer: Licensing
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