Fabrication and redesign of a meso-scale six-axis nano-positioner system

Abstract

The industry's need for low-cost nano-positioners led MIT's Precision Compliant Systems lab to design a system of 10 six-axis meso-scale nano-positioners. They devised a system that could revolutionize the nano-scale industry, by making massive parallel positioning at the nanometer/micro-radian possible at a low cost. In order to test the design, the alpha prototype was built and tested. The fabrication and the assembly processes provided insight into possible redesign changes that would facilitate future manufacturing, as well as improve the performance of the nano-positioner. The fabrication of the prototype also allowed for the exploration of the accuracy of conventional machining methods and their effect on the device performance. Traditional manufacturing was necessary in order to achieve the lowest cost possible. The design was also analyzed from a business perspective and modified to begin the transformation from prototype to profitable product. The construction of the prototype and the proposed changes to the design are important to the development of the project.