Integrated Multi-Axis Translation Stage
| Brand | ZOLIX |
|---|---|
| Model | TSMW-XYZ-2A(L) |
| Handedness | Left-Handed (L suffix) |
| Y-Axis Travel | 25 mm |
| X- and Z-Axis Travel | 13 mm |
| Origin | Beijing, China |
| Manufacturer | ZOLIX Optics Co., Ltd. |
| Domestic Production Category | China-Made |
Overview
The ZOLIX TSMW-XYZ-2A(L) Integrated Multi-Axis Translation Stage is a precision-engineered mechanical positioning platform designed for demanding optical alignment, interferometry, microscopy, and photonics integration tasks. Built on a monolithic base architecture, it eliminates cumulative mounting errors associated with stacked or modular stages by integrating X-, Y-, and Z-axis motion mechanisms into a single rigid aluminum alloy body. Motion is actuated via high-resolution micrometer drives with backlash-compensated brass-on-steel leadscrews, enabling repeatable sub-10 µm positional stability under typical laboratory environmental conditions. The stage operates on the principle of orthogonal linear translation—each axis moves independently along its designated Cartesian direction without coupling or crosstalk—ensuring deterministic coordinate control essential for beam steering, objective focusing, and multi-point sample rastering in optical setups.
Key Features
- Monolithic structural design minimizes thermal drift and mechanical hysteresis across all three axes.
- Left-handed configuration (denoted by “L” suffix) provides optimized ergonomics and cable routing for specific optical bench layouts where standard right-hand orientation introduces interference.
- Y-axis travel of 25 mm accommodates larger lateral sample scans or beam displacement requirements, while X- and Z-axes offer 13 mm range—sufficient for fine focus adjustment and small-stage alignment.
- Micrometer-driven actuators feature engraved dual-scale dials (mm and 0.01 mm increments) for direct visual readout without external sensors.
- Black anodized aluminum housing ensures dimensional stability, corrosion resistance, and compatibility with vacuum-compatible optional upgrades (e.g., dry-film lubricants, non-outgassing fasteners).
- Standard M4 and 1/4″-20 threaded mounting holes on base and top plate enable secure integration with optical posts, breadboards, and OEM subassemblies.
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The TSMW-XYZ-2A(L) supports payloads up to 2.5 kg uniformly distributed, making it suitable for mounting objectives, fiber couplers, detector mounts, and miniature optical elements. Its low-profile form factor (height ≤ 48 mm) allows integration beneath inverted microscopes or within compact optomechanical enclosures. While not certified to ISO 9001 at the unit level, ZOLIX maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification for its manufacturing processes, and the stage complies with RoHS 2011/65/EU directives regarding hazardous substances. It meets mechanical interface specifications referenced in ISO 10110-7 (optical element mounting) and is routinely deployed in laboratories adhering to GLP documentation practices for instrument qualification (IQ/OQ protocols available upon request).
Software & Data Management
This stage is manually operated and does not include motorization or digital control interfaces. As such, it requires no firmware, drivers, or software installation—eliminating cybersecurity concerns and ensuring long-term operational continuity independent of OS updates or vendor SDK deprecation. Positional data is recorded manually using dial readings or integrated with external metrology systems (e.g., laser interferometers, capacitive sensors) via standardized mechanical reference points (centered datum holes, machined edge references). For labs implementing electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) or LIMS, position logs may be entered as structured metadata fields aligned with ASTM E2500-15 guidelines for equipment usage traceability.
Applications
- Precision alignment of collimated laser beams in cavity ring-down spectroscopy (CRDS) setups.
- Iterative focus optimization of high-NA objectives in confocal fluorescence imaging.
- Controlled displacement of photonic crystal samples during angle-resolved reflectance mapping.
- Position calibration of quadrant photodiodes in adaptive optics wavefront sensing subsystems.
- Multi-point referencing in optical coherence tomography (OCT) reference arm tuning.
- Teaching laboratory use in undergraduate optics courses for demonstrating Cartesian coordinate manipulation and parallax error analysis.
FAQ
Is this stage compatible with vacuum environments?
Standard units are rated for ambient air operation; vacuum-compatible variants require optional dry-film lubrication and stainless steel hardware—contact ZOLIX Technical Support for part-number cross-referencing.
Can I retrofit stepper motors to this stage?
No. The TSMW-XYZ-2A(L) lacks provisions for motor mounting, encoder integration, or cable management; ZOLIX offers motorized alternatives (e.g., TSMW-XYZ-M series) for automated applications.
What is the angular deviation specification over full travel?
Pitch and yaw deviations are ≤ ±15 arcsec across full stroke, measured per ISO 230-2 Annex B using autocollimation; roll error is < 5 arcsec due to symmetric bearing support.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration certificates?
Factory calibration reports (including dial linearity verification against NIST-traceable slip gauges) are available as a paid add-on service—quoted separately upon order placement.
How is handedness defined for this stage?
Left-handed configuration means the Y-axis micrometer knob is positioned on the left side when viewing the stage from the front (i.e., +Y motion advances toward the user), reversing the standard orientation convention used in most XYZ stage families.
