Miniature opto-mechanical actuators: new brochure from PI

Building upon decades of experience with motion control and nanopositioning, the new N-472 closed-loop PiezoMike actuator adds position feedback in a compact package, very similar to its N-470, open-loop sibling. Both actuators are based on a screw and ratchet mechanism, where a small piezo ceramic block performs the individual "clicks' based on the input to a controller.

Step size and frequency are variable and allow the user to control the desired speed and positioning resolution. The position sensor resolution of the new N-472 actuator is below one nanometer. PiezoMike products simplify the automated adjustment of mechanical and opto-mechanical components. Motion ranges from 7.5mm to 26mm are standard, as well as vacuum capability.

The advantage of the piezo ratchet design is a very high stiffness and blocking force of 100N (22 lbs). Once a position is reached, the actuator is vibration-proof, shock-resistant and long-term stable, with no position drift or jitter.

Please follow the link to watch a video explaining the functionality of the PiezoMike miniaturised opto-mechanical piezo-motor actuators from PI.