New small-footprint X-Y Cartesian micro-positioning system expands gantry range

The new small-footprint AGS1500 is available in four X-Y travel range options from 200 mm to 500 mm, and retains the impressive dynamic performance and accuracy characteristics of Aerotech's longer travel AGS15000 model, with nanometre level resolution, velocity to 3 m/sec and acceleration to 5g.
Aimed at high-throughput production and test micro-positioning applications including precision micromachining, machine vision inspection, automated assembly and precision dispensing, the AGS1500 can be supplied with counterbalanced Z axes and rotary axes as complete customised motion sub-systems for turnkey operation including customer specified fixtures, cabled services and other special requests that can include an electroless nickel finish for ESD protection.
The AGS1500 X-Y gantry includes dual brushless linear servomotors and non-contacting optical encoders for the base axis, and together with Aerotech's HALAR calibration option helps to ensure an overall stage accuracy of better than +/- 1.5 microns and repeatability to +/- 0.5 microns for the 500 mm travel version.
Using Aerotech's encoder multiplier technology, resolution can be specified between 1 micron and 1 nanometre and X-Y orthogonality is within 5 arc-sec. The planar stage design includes a fully preloaded linear motion guide bearing system with wiper seals and grease fittings for long life, low maintenance operation for lower axis stage loads up to 37 kg and payloads on the upper axis to 3.2 kg.
Aerotech's field proven cable management system (CMS) includes connectors at both payload and opposite ends of the e-chain with large bend radii and high-flex cables used. All customers electrical and pneumatics supplies can be routed through the CMS, simplifying installation and system commissioning.
The AGS1500 is typically supplied complete with Aerotech's high performance motion controls and servo amplifiers to ensure optimum performance. These include the A3200 Digital Automation Platform, the new MotionPAC, and the Ensemble and Soloist stand-alone motion controllers with integrated drives. Through the range a choice of PC-based software-only controls or standalone solutions in rack and desk mounting options are available to suit the customers application. All Aerotech controllers offer a very wide choice of machine controls and sophisticated motion commands that can include IEC61131-3, Microsoft .NET Framework and LabVIEW™ programming capability with advanced software and analytical functions that are designed to optimise machine performance, increase precision and improve throughput.