Ideal for analyses of small samples

Especially for highly sensitive examinations in vacuum for mass spectrometry or electron beam microscopy, the Dresden-based positioning specialist Steinmeyer Mechatronik has developed a heavy-duty sample manipulator that enables ultra-precise analyses of small samples and can be individually adapted to customer-specific requirements.

Applications in the fields of life science and research place the highest demands on precision and stability. With the new sample manipulator for analytics, Steinmeyer Mechatronik fully meets these requirements. The OEM positioning solution enables analyses for samples up to 20 mm x 5 mm. The drives realise step sizes of 0.1 µm and offer excellent stability due to the absolutely rigid drives with ground sliding threads of very small pitch - and this with a service life of over one million cycles.

Ultra-stable analysis of small samples

The positioning unit, a combination of linear stage and swivel unit, carries small, sensitive samples on an arm in the vacuum chamber and positions them there in front of a laser or electron beam. The drives - sliding screw drives with stepper motors - are placed outside the chamber, and the movements are transferred to the sample carrier in the vacuum via a bellows. This guarantees the highest standards of low outgassing and freedom from magnets. The sample carrier covers a movement range of 20 mm x 5 mm at its tip. The smallest positioning increments are 0.1 µm in both directions. The combination of a preloaded sliding thread with a high-pole stepper motor achieves a standstill stability of less than 50 nm. For the swivel movement, solid-state joints made of titanium are used, which have been optimised for long-lasting durability.

100% individuality

As a specialist for customised special solutions, Steinmeyer Mechatronik has many years of expertise in the development of individual positioning systems and realises precisely fitting assemblies that are precisely tailored to the respective customer requirements. The newly developed sample manipulator also leaves nothing to be desired in terms of individuality. Whether different travel paths, individual solutions for material selection, design for clean room ISO 14644-1 or combination with other systems for even more application possibilities: The positioning unit can be adapted as required.

Ideal for high-precision sample analysis in the mass spectrometer

The sample manipulator can be easily combined with existing systems and is used in particular for mounting on sample chambers of mass spectrometers or electron beam microscopes. Adaptation for further applications for moving samples in vacuum chambers is possible. The use for reaction chambers with aggressive media or high temperatures is also possible after appropriate material adaptation. Delivery is tested and measured, with control unit or adapted to the customer's controller infrastructure and, on request, with helium leak check.

Customised solutions

From development to manufacturing and assembly, the entire production process is carried out under one roof at the Dresden site. This enables Steinmeyer Mechatronik to respond to all customer requests and to realise specific requirements in an uncomplicated manner. The positioning specialist can draw on a large pool of ready-made solutions, many years of expertise in medicine, life science and biotechnology as well as µm know-how from 150 years of experience.