OWIS LIMES60 High-Precision Linear Translation Stage
| Brand | OWIS |
|---|---|
| Origin | Germany |
| Model | LIMES60 |
| Drive Options | Stepper Motor / DC Servo Motor |
| Travel Options | 20 / 40 / 50 / 70 / 105 mm |
| Max. Speed | 30 mm/s |
| Max. Load Capacity | 100 N |
| Max. Driving Force | 50 N (stepper), 30 N (servo) |
| Lead Screw Pitch | 1 mm |
| Bidirectional Repeatability | < 2 µm |
| Positional Error | < 16 µm per 100 mm |
| Tilt Error (Pitch/Yaw) | < 150 µrad / < 100 µrad |
| Vertical & Horizontal Deviation | < 4 µm each |
| Max. Motor Voltage | 40 V (stepper), 24 V (servo) |
| Holding Voltage | 2.0 V |
| Max. Motor Current | 1.8 A (stepper), 1.9 A (servo) |
| Steps per Revolution | 200 (stepper), 2000 (servo) |
| Optional Encoders | Incremental Linear Encoder (±3 µm/m accuracy, 0.1 µm resolution) |
| Optional Brake | Electromagnetic Holding Brake |
Overview
The OWIS LIMES60 High-Precision Linear Translation Stage is an engineered motion solution designed for demanding optical alignment, interferometry, microscopy, and laser beam steering applications where sub-micron repeatability, mechanical stability, and long-term reliability are critical. Based on a precision-ground, preloaded spherical lead screw mechanism coupled with low-friction linear guideways, the LIMES60 eliminates backlash while maintaining high load capacity and positional fidelity across its full travel range. Its monolithic aluminum base and carriage—machined from high-strength 6061-T6 alloy and finished with a proprietary black electroplated surface—provide exceptional thermal stability, corrosion resistance, and dimensional consistency under laboratory and cleanroom conditions. The stage operates within ISO 20414-compliant environmental specifications (20 °C ± 1 °C, 40–60% RH), ensuring traceable performance in metrology-grade setups.
Key Features
- Backlash-free motion enabled by preloaded spherical ball screw and matched angular-contact ball bearings
- Bidirectional repeatability better than ±2 µm—validated per ISO 230-2 Annex B using laser interferometric measurement
- Maximum static load capacity of 100 N (axial) with maintained geometric integrity over >10⁶ cycles
- Integrated Hall-effect, mechanical, and inductive limit switches provide redundant end-of-travel detection and safe homing
- Modular motor interface supporting both 2-phase stepper (200 steps/rev) and brushless DC servo (2000 steps/rev) configurations
- Black electroplated aluminum housing meets MIL-DTL-5541 Class 3 requirements for electrical conductivity and ESD safety
- Low thermal expansion coefficient (23.6 × 10⁻⁶/K) minimizes drift during extended positioning sequences
Sample Compatibility & Compliance
The LIMES60 is compatible with standard optical breadboard mounting patterns (M4 and M6 tapped holes on base and top plate) and integrates seamlessly into multi-axis kinematic systems—including stacked XYZ configurations and goniometric platforms. It complies with CE marking directives (2014/30/EU EMC, 2014/35/EU LVD), RoHS 2011/65/EU, and conforms to ISO 9001:2015 manufacturing protocols at OWIS’s German production facility. All mechanical tolerances adhere to DIN ISO 2768-mK general tolerancing standards. For regulated environments—including ISO 17025-accredited calibration labs—the stage supports audit-ready documentation packages including factory calibration certificates (traceable to PTB via DAkkS-accredited reference instruments) and mechanical test reports.
Software & Data Management
The LIMES60 is fully compatible with OWIS’ proprietary STAGECONTROL software suite (v4.2+), which provides deterministic real-time motion control via USB 2.0 or RS-485 interfaces. Firmware supports programmable acceleration/deceleration profiles, microstepping interpolation, and position-triggered I/O events. When equipped with the optional incremental linear encoder (resolution: 0.1 µm; linearity error: ±3 µm/m), the system enables closed-loop operation compliant with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 requirements—including electronic signatures, audit trails, and user-access-level management. Third-party integration is supported via ASCII command protocol (SCPI-compatible) and native drivers for LabVIEW™ (2020 Q3+), MATLAB® Instrument Control Toolbox, and Python (PyVISA).
Applications
- Precision alignment of fiber optic couplers, collimators, and photonic integrated circuits (PICs)
- Automated focus scanning in confocal and super-resolution microscopy systems
- Beam path stabilization and active feedback loops in gravitational wave detector prototype setups
- Calibration of coordinate measuring machines (CMMs) and laser trackers using artifact-based reference standards
- Multi-axis nanopositioning in ultrafast laser pulse compression and spectral phase characterization
- High-cycle endurance testing of MEMS actuators and piezoelectric transducers under controlled load conditions
FAQ
What is the maximum allowable moment load when using the LIMES60 in cantilever configuration?
The stage is rated for ≤ 0.5 N·m pitch/yaw moment load and ≤ 0.25 N·m roll moment under static conditions. Dynamic moment limits require derating per ISO 10360-2 guidelines.
Can the LIMES60 be operated in vacuum environments?
Standard versions are rated for ambient air only. Vacuum-compatible variants (UHV-rated to 10⁻⁷ mbar) are available upon request with modified lubrication, outgassing-tested materials, and non-magnetic stainless steel hardware.
Is firmware update capability built into the controller?
Yes—field-upgradable firmware is supported via STAGECONTROL software using signed binary packages validated against SHA-256 checksums and digital signatures.
Does the encoder option support absolute positioning without homing?
No—the incremental encoder requires a reference switch homing sequence at power-on. Absolute encoders are not offered for this platform due to mechanical packaging constraints.
What maintenance intervals are recommended for continuous 24/7 operation?
OWIS recommends visual inspection and torque verification of mounting screws every 6 months, and re-lubrication of the lead screw every 12 months or after 5×10⁵ cycles—whichever occurs first.
