Actuator-Assisted Positioning for Tilted Carrier Accuracy
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing positioning systems for workpieces in microscopic imaging and processing face challenges with high-throughput applications, such as rapid wear of piezoelectric motors and magnetic interference from linear motors, leading to asymmetric loading and loss of positional accuracy, especially in tilted configurations.
Innovation Solution
A positioning system incorporating a guide, carrier element, motor, restraint, and actuator, where the actuator is used to displace the carrier element relative to the restraint, and a biasing member biases the carrier element against the actuator, allowing precise positioning even when the system is inclined, using piezoelectric actuators to maintain accuracy.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If piezoelectric motors are used to actuate the positioning system, then positioning precision is improved, but the motors wear out quickly in high-throughput applications
Solution Approach 1:
The positioning system is divided into two independent actuation mechanisms: a linear motor for rapid positioning and piezoelectric actuators for fine positioning and maintaining precision. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specialized function without excessive wear - the linear motor handles high-speed movements while piezoelectric elements handle precision adjustments, extending overall system durability.
2Speed
If linear motors are used to move the carrier element quickly, then positioning speed is improved, but the magnetic field generated adversely affects beam quality
Solution Approach 1:
The linear motor is operated in periodic bursts only during positioning transitions rather than continuously. The motor accelerates the carrier element to the desired position, then is deactivated. Piezoelectric actuators take over for fine positioning and holding, allowing the linear motor to remain de-energized during beam operations, eliminating magnetic interference with the beam while maintaining high positioning speed during transitions.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the carrier element is positioned in a tilted configuration to accommodate instrument angles, then adaptability is improved, but asymmetric loading causes loss of position during transitions
Solution Approach 1:
Piezoelectric actuators serve as intermediary elements between the linear motor and the carrier element in tilted configurations. When the linear motor positions the carrier element, the piezoelectric actuators actively compensate for asymmetric loading effects by applying counteracting forces, preventing position drift during transitions and maintaining accuracy even in tilted orientations.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric actuators dynamically adjust their output parameters (force, displacement) in real-time to counteract the asymmetric gravitational and inertial loads caused by tilted carrier element configurations. This active parameter adjustment compensates for position loss and maintains precision across varying tilt angles.
4Stability of the object's composition
If brakes are used to prevent movement of the inclined carrier element, then position stability is improved, but transition to deenergized state causes loss of position
Solution Approach 1:
The mechanical brake system is replaced with an active piezoelectric actuation system for position maintenance. Instead of using friction-based brakes that cause position loss during engagement/disengagement, piezoelectric actuators continuously apply precise counteracting forces to hold the carrier element position, eliminating the transition losses associated with mechanical braking while maintaining stability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enables accurate and precise positioning of workpieces in space-constrained environments, compensating for asymmetric loads and maintaining positional accuracy during transitions between energized and deenergized states, enhancing imaging and processing quality.
Implementation Method 1
actuator, configured to displace the carrier element relative to the restraint along the guide when the restraint is engaged with the guide
Data Source
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AI summary
A positioning system can include a guide, a carrier element configured to engage and convey a workpiece, a motor having a mover element, a restraint coupled to the carrier element, and an actuator disposed between the restraint and the carrier element. The guide can be movable relative to a horizontal reference plane such that the carrier element coupled to the guide is inclined with respect to the horizontal reference plane. At least the mover element of the motor can be coupled to the carrier element and can be configured to move the carrier element along the guide. The restraint can be configured to selectively engage the guide to restrain movement of the carrier element in at least one direction along the guide when the guide is inclined out of the horizontal reference plane. The actuator can be configured to displace the carrier element relative to the restraint along the guide when the restraint is engaged with the guide.