Miniature M3-L Closed-loop Linear Motion Module

New Scale Technologies announces the latest product in its M3 Micro-Mechatronics Module family: the miniature M3-L closed-loop linear motion module. With 0.5 micron position resolution and a total package size of less than 27.5 x 13 x 7.5 mm, the M3-L module is the smallest, highest-resolution closed-loop linear motion control system on the market.

It is ideal for precision motion control of variable inductors, trimming capacitors and optical elements for RF, microwave and photonics tuning applications. It also adds reliable motion to a wide range of miniature optical and hand-held instruments; aerospace and UAV controls; and biomedical systems including fluid controls, microspectrometers and microsurgery.

All motion and control functions are fully integrated into the M3-L module, including a piezoelectric linear micro motor, position sensor, guide mechanism, motor driver, control processor and software. The module runs on 3.3V input for battery-powered operation. The standard serial interface (I2C or SPI) accepts PID closed-loop system tuning parameters, as well as high-level input commands such as “move specified distance.” No external controller is needed.

The M3-L module is offered with a bullet nose for pushing or an eye end tip for pulling loads. Typical travel range is 6 mm. New Scale also develops custom OEM modules including bi-directional (push/pull) systems, modules with custom travel range up to 20 mm, and multi-axis configurations.

The M3-L module draws approximately 500 mW of power while moving and 200 mW quiescent. Weight is approximately 4.5 grams without tips.

“The M3-L linear module offers unrivalled precision in the smallest possible spaces,” said Ralph Weber, product manager at New Scale. “This latest innovation based on our M3 Micro-Mechatronics Module platform demonstrates our continuing leadership in miniaturization and micro-mechatronics integration to meet our customers’ most demanding motion control needs.”