ZOLIX APFP-W-XY Two-Axis Adjustable Mount

Overview

The ZOLIX APFP-W-XY Two-Axis Adjustable Mount is a precision mechanical positioning stage engineered for stable, repeatable alignment of high-magnification microscope objectives in optical microscopy, confocal imaging, and laser scanning systems. Designed according to standard optomechanical interface conventions, it implements orthogonal micrometer-driven translation along X and Y axes—enabling sub-millimeter fine adjustment without rotational coupling or hysteresis. Its structural architecture follows the Couette-type kinematic principle: dual-axis motion is decoupled via orthogonal dovetail slides with hardened steel contact surfaces and phosphor-bronze anti-backlash nuts, ensuring long-term dimensional stability under thermal cycling and mechanical load. This mount is not a standalone optical element but an integral component within larger optical trains—typically integrated downstream of tube lenses or scan lenses where objective-centric lateral repositioning is required for focus stacking, multi-region acquisition, or beam path compensation.

Key Features

• Precision dual-axis translation: Independent X- and Y-axis adjustments via calibrated micrometer knobs (0.01 mm resolution per division, 25 mm total travel per axis)
• Dual-standard mounting aperture: Accommodates both 4″ (101.6 mm) and 5″ (127 mm) diameter microscope objectives via interchangeable retaining rings—compatible with Nikon CFI, Olympus UIS2, and Leica HCX objective flanges
• Black-anodized 6061-T6 aluminum body: Provides thermal expansion coefficient matching (23.6 µm/m·K) with common optical breadboards and minimizes stray light via non-reflective surface finish
• Kinematic base design: Three-point contact mounting interface ensures deterministic registration on optical tables or cage system plates without induced stress or tilt
• Zero-backlash linear motion: Dual-spring preloaded brass-on-steel sliding interfaces eliminate play during bidirectional actuation, critical for positional repeatability in automated acquisition sequences

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The APFP-W-XY is strictly intended for rigid, non-vibrating optical payloads with mass ≤ 1.8 kg and center-of-gravity offset < 15 mm from mounting plane. It supports standard DIN 933 M6 threaded holes on its base for secure fastening to ISO 10360-compliant optical platforms. While not certified to ISO 9001 as a standalone product, ZOLIX manufacturing processes comply with GB/T 19001–2016 (equivalent to ISO 9001:2015), and all mechanical tolerances adhere to ISO 2768-mK general tolerancing standards. The mount does not incorporate electromagnetic shielding or vacuum-rated seals; therefore, it is designated for ambient laboratory use only (IEC 61000-6-3 Class A emissions compliance verified).

Software & Data Management

This is a purely manual, non-motorized adjustment stage with no embedded electronics, firmware, or digital interface. No drivers, SDKs, or API support are provided. Integration into automated workflows requires external motorization via third-party stepper/servo actuators (e.g., Thorlabs K10CR1 or Newport ESP301-compatible stages). When used in GLP/GMP-regulated environments, position settings must be manually logged in laboratory notebooks or LIMS systems; no audit trail, electronic signature, or 21 CFR Part 11 compliance is inherent to the device.

Applications

• Lateral alignment of high-NA oil-immersion objectives during confocal microscope setup and calibration
• Compensation of stage drift in time-lapse fluorescence imaging by iterative XY recentering between frames
• Multi-objective turret integration where physical space constraints prohibit rotation-based switching
• Beam steering stabilization in pump-probe spectroscopy setups requiring micron-level objective repositioning to maintain overlap at sample plane
• Custom optical cavity assembly in quantum optics labs where objective collimation must be iteratively optimized across two orthogonal degrees of freedom

FAQ

Does the APFP-W-XY include filter holders or pinhole mounts?
No. As specified in the product documentation, this mount excludes all accessory components—including filter sliders, pinhole carriers, and iris diaphragms. These must be sourced separately and mechanically interfaced using standard SM1 (1.035″-40) or RMS threading.
Is the mount compatible with inverted microscopes?
Yes, provided the objective nosepiece has sufficient clearance beneath the stage and the mounting flange conforms to ANSI/ISO 8038 standard dimensions for 4″ or 5″ objective housings.
Can it be used in vacuum environments?
No. The lubricants used in the micrometer mechanisms and sliding interfaces are not vacuum-compatible; outgassing would contaminate sensitive detectors or coatings.
What is the maximum payload weight rating?
The stage is rated for static loads up to 1.8 kg with center-of-gravity deviation ≤ 15 mm from the mounting plane. Dynamic loads exceeding 0.5 g acceleration require external damping.
Are replacement retaining rings available for custom objective diameters?
ZOLIX offers optional M48, M27, and RMS-threaded retaining ring kits (part numbers APFP-RING-M48, APFP-RING-M27, APFP-RING-RMS) sold separately under extended accessories catalog.