February 6, 2012 - Q-Sys designed and built this optical platform with 5 degrees of freedom for precise sample positioning applications for DESY (Deutsches Elektronen Synchrotron). At 2700mm long and 800mm wide, the optical table can accommodate loads of up to 1000kg. In addition to a large number of threaded inserts, it has 5 full length stainless steel T-slots to give the user total flexibility in the mounting of components. The granite table is supported on three actuator systems which, by a combination of clever design and ingenious kinematic mounting, deliver controlled motion in five axes. Using specific combinations of moves of the individual actuators, the table is controlled in both horizontal and lateral positions, plus pitch, roll and yaw.
The custom designed actuators also include full protection against overtravel and power loss, including integral dampers and brakes. Precision positioning is available over ranges of 100mm in the vertical direction and 200mm in the horizontal. These are complemented by ranges of ±1 degree in each of pitch, roll and yaw.