MPS Microsystems - Solutions for defense & aerospace - Presentation - Page 5
SOLUTIONS FOR OPTICS & PHOTONICS INDUSTRY
Optical fiber positioner for Astronomical
Observation
Research in the field of dark matter is leading to the
development of new equipment that enable the collection
and analysis of light
emitted
by
distant
galaxies. In partnership
with a research group,
MPS has developed
and is manufacturing
a number of high
precision,
reliable
systems for positioning
optical fiber directed
towards these galaxies. Thousands of these positioners are
installed in the focal plane of telescopes.
With a diameter of less than 10 mm, the positioner must
be able to accommodate two parallel axes that rotate
independently the optical fiber with two 4 mm Faulhaber
gearmotors.
MPS is the leader in providing the Astronomy Research
Community with positioners and has already realised three
projects, for which positioners are installed or will soon be
installed on three telescopes around the world (Very Large
Telescope, Sloan Foundation 2.5 m Telescope at Apache
Point Observatory, Irénée du Pont Telescope at Las Campanas
Observatory).
An easily scalable
positioner platform
is available at MPS
for any organisation
needing such systems.
Miniature test bench with six degrees of
freedom
MPS is in the process of developing a miniature mechanism
with six degrees of freedom (6DOF): X, Y, Z, Roll, Pitch
and Yaw. The system is based on the principle of serial
kinematics and modular: one DOF can be easily removed
or added depending on customer requirements. The
system can be designed very small (60 x 50 x 32 mm) but
is scalable to bigger size if the test bench needs to move
large or heavy objects. The system is smaller, more flexible
and significantly easier to drive than hexapods. Regarding
accuracy, positioning repeatability of 1 micron is achievable.
This system is ideal for quality inspection of consumer
electronic devices such a smartphones, tablets and laptops.
