New Scale Technologies Inc.'s
miniature M3-L closed-loop linear motion module has a 0.5 micron position
resolution and a total package size of less than 27.5 x 13 x 7.5 mm. All motion
and control functions are fully integrated into the M3-L module, including a
piezoelectric linear micro motor, position sensor, guide mechanism, motor
driver, control processor and software. The module runs on 3.3V input for
battery-powered operation. The standard serial interface (I2C or SPI) accepts
PID closed-loop system tuning parameters, as well as high-level input commands
such as "move specified distance." No external controller is
needed.
The
M3-L module is offered with a bullet nose for pushing or a hook tip for pulling
loads. Typical travel range is 6 mm. New Scale also develops custom OEM modules
including bi-directional (push/pull) systems, modules with custom travel range
up to 20 mm and multi-axis configurations.
The
M3-L module draws approximately 500 mW of power while moving and 200 mW
quiescent. Weight is approximately 4.5 grams without tips. M3-L production
modules are customized to OEM specifications. M3-L Developer's Kits include an
M3-L linear module along with a USB key and New Scale Pathway PC software. This
gives designers a graphical user interface to evaluate motion and a scripting
environment for system development.
It
is useful for precision motion control of variable inductors, trimming
capacitors and optical elements for RF, microwave and photonics tuning
applications. It also adds motion to a wide range of miniature optical and
hand-held instruments, aerospace and UAV controls and biomedical systems
including fluid controls and microsurgery.
