Physik Instrumente
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Democratizing Microscope Stages with Ultrasonic Motors

Oct. 3, 2024
Physik Instrumente adds to its imaging technologies with the U-781 XY microscope stage.

The U-781 XY microscope stage is designed to make high-performance ultrasonic piezo motor drive systems accessible for super resolution fluorescence microscopy. This stage offers specifications that aim to broaden the usability of advanced microscopy techniques across various research fields.

The stage features a travel range of 128 × 86 mm and includes 10 nm resolution linear encoders for precise direct position measurements. Compatible with inverted microscopes from leading manufacturers, this stage is made to balance high performance with affordability, making it an option for labs that are aiming to improve imaging capabilities.

Key features include:

  • Ultra-stable design—utilizes patented ultrasonic direct-drive motors for millisecond responsiveness and a dynamic velocity range from less than 1µm/sec. to more than 100 mm/sec., ensuring smooth, jerk-free motion.
  • Self-locking mechanism—features a drift-free, self-locking design that securely clamps the stage in place once a target position is reached, for stability during long-term imaging.
  • Comprehensive software integration—includes an advanced controller with joystick support and extensive software compatibility (LabVIEW, MATLAB, µManager), allowing for integration with common microscopy tools and mode switching.

READ MORE: Laser Beam Control with Fast Steering Mirrors and PICMA Piezo Actuators

The stage also supports a range of accessories, such as a large aperture and multiple adapter plates for different sample formats, including microscope slides, well plates and petri dishes. For applications like single molecule tracking and optical trapping, users can add the optional P-736. PInano Z stage or the P-545 XYZ piezo flexure nanopositioning stage.

The U-781 XY stage is suitable for fields involving precision measurement, prototyping, and research and development.

About the Author

Sharon Spielman | Technical Editor, Machine Design

As Machine Design’s technical editor, Sharon Spielman produces content for the brand’s focus audience—design and multidisciplinary engineers. Her beat includes 3D printing/CAD; mechanical and motion systems, with an emphasis on pneumatics and linear motion; automation; robotics; and CNC machining.

Spielman has more than three decades of experience as a writer and editor for a range of B2B brands, including those that cover machine design; electrical design and manufacturing; interconnection technology; food and beverage manufacturing; process heating and cooling; finishing; and package converting.

Email: [email protected]

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