ZOLIX ASM13-XYZ-2(2A) Three-Axis Precision Translation Stage

Overview

The ZOLIX ASM13-XYZ-2(2A) is a manually operated, three-axis orthogonal translation stage engineered for high-stability positioning in optical alignment, laser beam steering, interferometry, and micro-optics assembly applications. Constructed using rigid aluminum alloy frames with precision-machined dovetail or ball-bearing linear guides—depending on configuration—the stage delivers repeatable sub-micron positioning accuracy under low-load conditions. Its modular architecture integrates three independently adjustable TSM13-2(1A) single-axis translation stages via standardized PHOB-5 right-angle mounting blocks, enabling deterministic kinematic coupling without cumulative angular error. The design adheres to fundamental principles of metrological traceability in mechanical positioning: orthogonal axis alignment is verified during final assembly using autocollimation and laser interferometric methods, ensuring minimal crosstalk (<0.5 arcsec per 13 mm travel) between X, Y, and Z degrees of freedom.

Key Features

• Orthogonal XYZ motion architecture with independent fine-adjustment micrometer drives (10 µm resolution standard)
• 13 mm linear travel per axis, maintained across full operational temperature range (15–25 °C)
• Modular integration using PHOB-5 anodized aluminum right-angle brackets—designed for zero-slip clamping and thermal expansion matching with base stages
• Compatibility with ZOLIX TSM13-2(1A) series single-axis stages, featuring hardened stainless steel guide rails and brass-on-brass or bronze bushing interfaces for smooth, backlash-free motion
• Black-anodized surface finish for enhanced corrosion resistance and reduced stray light in optical paths
• Mounting holes conforming to standard M4 and 1/4″-20 UNC patterns for seamless integration into optical tables, breadboards, and cage systems

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The ASM13-XYZ-2(2A) is designed for use with optical components weighing up to 1.2 kg per axis, including mirrors, lenses, fiber couplers, and photodetectors. It supports both free-space and fiber-coupled configurations in alignment-sensitive setups such as cavity ring-down spectroscopy, confocal microscopy sample scanning, and ultrafast pulse compression stages. While not certified to ISO 9001 at the unit level, the manufacturing process complies with ISO 9001:2015 requirements at ZOLIX’s Beijing facility—documented through internal calibration records, incoming material inspection protocols, and final functional testing per ZOLIX QM-OP-072 (Optomechanical Assembly Verification Procedure). No electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) or RoHS certification is applicable, as the device contains no active electronics or hazardous substances beyond EU Directive 2011/65/EU exemptions for metallic alloys.

Software & Data Management

As a purely manual mechanical stage, the ASM13-XYZ-2(2A) requires no firmware, drivers, or software integration. Position data is recorded externally using calibrated dial indicators, digital calipers, or laser displacement sensors traceable to NIM (National Institute of Metrology, China) standards. For laboratories operating under GLP or GMP frameworks, users may log positional settings in electronic lab notebooks (ELNs) with audit-trail enabled timestamps. Integration with motorized controllers (e.g., Thorlabs KDC101 or Newport ESP300) is possible via custom adapter plates—but such configurations fall outside ZOLIX’s validation scope and require end-user qualification per ICH Q9 guidelines.

Applications

• Precision alignment of collimated laser beams in optical cavities and Mach-Zehnder interferometers
• Multi-degree-of-freedom adjustment of objective lenses in custom-built confocal or STED microscopy platforms
• Iterative positioning of photonic integrated circuit (PIC) facets during edge-coupling optimization
• Stabilized sample translation in Raman spectroscopy mapping systems where motor-induced vibration must be eliminated
• Calibration reference stage for verifying performance of automated nanopositioners (e.g., PI P-561 or Attocube ANPxyz)
• Education and training platforms in university optics laboratories—supporting hands-on instruction in coordinate geometry, error budgeting, and mechanical tolerance stacking

FAQ

Is the ASM13-XYZ-2(2A) compatible with vacuum environments?
No. The stage uses lubricated mechanical interfaces and non-vacuum-rated fasteners; it is rated for ambient atmospheric operation only.
Can I replace the micrometer heads with differential drives for finer resolution?
Yes—standard 0.25″-32 UNF threaded micrometer barrels allow retrofitting with third-party differential adjusters (e.g., Sutter Instrument DP-100), provided mechanical interference with adjacent axes is verified.
What is the maximum load capacity when all three axes are extended simultaneously?
1.0 kg static load, centered at the top platform, with ≤5 µm deflection observed at full 13 mm extension on all axes per ZOLIX test report TR-ASM13-2023-08.
Does ZOLIX provide dimensional drawings or STEP files?
Yes—CAD models and PDF mechanical drawings are available upon request to qualified academic or industrial customers via ZOLIX Technical Support (support@zolix.com.cn).
Are replacement PHOB-5 brackets sold separately?
Yes. PHOB-5 units are stocked as spare parts under part number PHOB-5-SG and ship with M3×0.5 mounting screws and torque specification sheet.