ASM-XYZ-2A Three-Axis Precision Translation Stage (ZOLIX)

Overview

The ASM-XYZ-2A Three-Axis Precision Translation Stage is a modular, manually operated optical positioning system engineered for high-stability alignment and fine spatial adjustment in demanding laboratory and industrial optical setups. Designed and manufactured by ZOLIX (Beijing Zolix Instruments Co., Ltd.), this stage implements a rigid, kinematically decoupled architecture that integrates two TSM25-1A precision linear translation stages (for X and Y motion) and one TSMV5-1A precision vertical lift stage (for Z-axis motion). Its operation relies on differential micrometer-driven lead screws with backlash-compensated nuts, delivering repeatable sub-micron positioning resolution under load. The stage is optimized for applications requiring coordinated orthogonal displacement—such as beam steering, fiber coupling, interferometer alignment, and multi-point sample rastering—where mechanical hysteresis, thermal drift, and cross-axis crosstalk must be minimized.

Key Features

• Orthogonal XYZ motion architecture with independent manual control for each axis via calibrated micrometer heads (0.01 mm graduation, 0.005 mm typical repeatability)
• High-rigidity aluminum alloy base and stage plates, anodized for wear resistance and dimensional stability across ambient temperature fluctuations (20 ± 5 °C recommended operating range)
• Integrated dovetail and tapped-hole mounting interfaces (M4 and M6) compatible with standard optical breadboards (e.g., Thorlabs, Newport) and ZOLIX optical rails
• No internal flexure or piezoelectric elements—pure mechanical design ensures long-term calibration retention and immunity to electromagnetic interference
• Load capacity: 2.5 kg centered, with ≤0.5 arcsec angular deviation per 1 mm of travel (X/Y); ≤1.0 arcsec tilt per 1 mm (Z), verified per ISO 10110-7 metrology guidelines
• Modular assembly allows field reconfiguration: Z-axis lift stage can be replaced with alternative height-adjustment modules (e.g., TSMV10-1A) without structural modification

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ASM-XYZ-2A is not a sample-analysis instrument but a mechanical positioning subsystem intended for integration into larger optical assemblies—including spectrometers, confocal microscopes, laser ablation systems, and photonic packaging testbenches. It imposes no intrinsic material or environmental constraints on mounted components beyond its mechanical load and footprint limits (max. 120 × 120 mm footprint; max. 80 mm height above base plane). All structural components comply with RoHS 2011/65/EU directives. Surface finish and thread tolerances conform to ISO 2768-mK general tolerancing standards. While not certified to ISO/IEC 17025, the stage’s dimensional performance is traceable to ZOLIX’s in-house CMM (coordinate measuring machine) calibrated against NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China) reference artifacts.

Software & Data Management

This is a purely manual, non-motorized translation stage with no embedded electronics, firmware, or digital interface. Consequently, it does not require drivers, SDKs, or software configuration. Position data logging must be performed externally using calibrated dial indicators, laser interferometers (e.g., Keysight 5530 series), or vision-based metrology tools. For automated integration, users may retrofit stepper motor actuators (e.g., ZOLIX STP series) and pair them with ZOLIX’s ZSControl LabVIEW-compatible API or third-party motion controllers supporting ASCII command protocols (e.g., Newport ESP300). Audit trails, electronic records, and 21 CFR Part 11 compliance are achievable only when integrated into a validated motion-control ecosystem—not at the stage level.

Applications

• Precision alignment of collimated laser beams in free-space optical circuits and heterodyne interferometry setups
• Multi-axis positioning of photodetectors, apertures, or fiber ferrules during active coupling optimization
• Step-and-repeat positioning of substrates in maskless lithography or micro-optics inspection stations
• Coarse/fine adjustment of objective lenses or scanning mirrors in custom-built Raman or fluorescence microscopes
• Calibration artifact positioning in optical null-testing configurations (e.g., Twyman–Green or Mach–Zehnder interferometers)
• Stabilized platform for vibration-sensitive experiments where motor-induced noise must be eliminated

FAQ

Is the ASM-XYZ-2A compatible with vacuum environments?
No—standard configuration uses lubricated brass-on-steel leadscrews and elastomeric dust seals unsuitable for <10⁻³ mbar. Vacuum-compatible variants (with dry-film lubrication and CF-flange mounting options) are available upon engineering consultation.
Can I mount a rotation stage on top of the Z-axis platform?
Yes—the top plate features a 4× M6 threaded array (25 mm pitch) and accommodates rotation stages up to 100 mm diameter and 3 kg mass, provided center-of-gravity remains within the Z-stage’s moment limit (0.15 N·m).
What is the maximum allowable off-center load on the X/Y stages?
For guaranteed repeatability ≤±0.008 mm, eccentric loading must be limited to ≤30% of total travel span (i.e., ≤7.5 mm offset from centerline) and ≤1.2 kg mass.
Does ZOLIX provide calibration certificates with purchase?
Standard delivery includes a factory verification report listing measured travel linearity and orthogonality deviations (per ISO 230-6). NIST-traceable calibration certificates are available as a value-added service with lead time extension.
Are replacement micrometer knobs or locking levers available as spare parts?
Yes—all mechanical subcomponents—including micrometer sleeves, knurled knobs, and M4 locking screws—are stocked and orderable under ZOLIX part numbers Z-ASM-KNOB-01 and Z-ASM-LOCK-02.