THORLABS RollerBlock RB13 Series User manual
RB13 Series
3-Axis Translation Stage
User Guide
Original Instructions
2
Contents
Chapter 1 1 For Your Safety ..........................................................................2
1.1 Safety Information ...................................................................................2
Chapter 2 2 Overview ....................................................................................3
2.1 Description ..............................................................................................3
2.2 Drives ......................................................................................................5
2.3 Accessories .............................................................................................6
Chapter 3 3 Operation ...................................................................................7
3.1 Micrometer Drives ...................................................................................7
3.1.1 Adjusting Differential Micrometer Drives ............................................................ 7
3.1.2 Reading Micrometer Drives ................................................................................ 7
3.2 Piezo Actuators........................................................................................7
Chapter 4 4 Installation ................................................................................8
4.1 Unpacking ...............................................................................................8
4.2 Attaching to a Work Surface ...................................................................8
4.3 Fitting an Extended Top Platform ...........................................................9
4.4 System Stability ....................................................................................10
4.5 Mounting Equipment to the Moving Platform ........................................10
4.6 Transportation .......................................................................................10
4.7 Dimensions ...........................................................................................11
4.7.1 Top Plate .......................................................................................................... 11
4.7.2 RB13M RollerBlock with Micrometer Drives .................................................... 12
4.7.3 RollerBlock with Micrometer and Piezo Drives ................................................ 12
4.7.4 RB13D RollerBlock with Differential Drives ...................................................... 14
Chapter 5 5 Specification ............................................................................15
5.1 Specification ..........................................................................................15
Chapter 6 6 Accessories List ....................................................................16
3
Chapter 1 Safety
1.1 Safety Information
For the continuing safety of the operators of this equipment, and the protection of the
equipment itself, the operator should take note of the Warnings, Cautions and Notes
throughout this handbook and, where visible, on the product itself.
The following safety symbols may be used throughout the handbook and on the
equipment itself.
1.2 General Warnings
Shock Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury from electrical shock.
Warning
Given when there is a risk of injury to users.
Caution
Given when there is a risk of damage to the product.
Note
Clarification of an instruction or additional information.
Warnings
If this equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer, the
protection provided by the equipment may be impaired. Do not operate the
instrument outside its rated supply voltages or environmental range. In
particular, excessive moisture may impair safety.
Spillage of fluid, such as sample solutions, should be avoided. If spillage does
occur, clean up immediately using absorbant tissue. Do not allow spilled fluid
to enter the internal mechanism.
4
Chapter 2 Overview
2.1 Description
The RollerBlockTM is a 3-axis, cross-roller bearing stage which is ideally suited to a
broad range of photonics applications. The integrated X-Y-Z design provides a more
compact stage than translation solutions constructed from single axis stacking
stages, while the steel construction and enclosed bearings result in improved product
lifetime. The moveable deck has a full 13mm of travel in three orthogonal directions,
and includes the standard tongue-in-groove fittingcommon to the full range of
Thorlabs optical mounting accessories.
The deck height of this compact stage matches the 62.5mm deck height of our flexure
based translation stages. Using this standard deck height allows this longer travel
stage to be incorporated into complex optical systems built around our popular
MicroBlock™ and NanoMax™ series flexure based stages.
The stage is offered in left or right handed configurations (left hand part numbers are
denoted by a L suffix and are available as a custom order), and in imperial or metric
versions (metric part numbers are denoted by a /M suffix). A range of drive options is
available, including micrometer drives, differential drives and a combined differential
micrometers with integral feedback piezo actuator - see Section 2.2.
Fig. 2.1 RB13M RollerBlock with micrometer actuators
5
RB Series 3-Axis Translation Stage
2.2 Drives
The RollerBlock is available with either a simple micrometer (RB13M - see Fig. 2.1),
or a differential micrometer drive (RBL13D - see Fig. 2.2). A piezo assisted
micrometer drive (DRV517 - see Fig. 2.3), and a choice of stepper motor drives
(ZST213B and ZFS13B) are also available separately..
Fig. 2.2 RBL13D RollerBlock with differential micrometer actuators
Fig. 2.3 RollerBlock fitted with piezo assisted differential micrometer actuators
6 HA0161T Rev H Aug 2015
Chapter 2
2.3 Accessories
A comprehensive range of accessories is available to allow the RollerBlock to hold
and manipulate optical fibers, diode lasers, gradient-index lenses, spherical ball
lenses, and other commonly used optical components. The accessories are mounted
to the top platform using a tongue-in-groove system and are retained with cleats and
capscrews – see Fig. 2.4. Three extended top platforms are also available for use
when end-firing or butt-coupling to small lightwave devices - see Section 4.3.
Fig. 2.4 Tongue-in-groove system
Two free standing table platforms are available which provides a fixed platform
adjacent to the moving world of the RollerBlock. These platforms have a standard
slotted top surface and attach directly to the optical table. They are designed to match
the platform height of the RollerBlock, which allows accessories to be mounted at the
fixed optical axis height of 75mm, adjacent to the accessories being translated.
cleat
accessory tongue
alignment groove
7
Chapter 3 Operation
3.1
Micrometer
Drives
3.1.1 Adjusting Differential Micrometer Drives
Turn the coarse adjustment clockwise until the top platform of the stage begins to
move. By use of the fine adjustment, sub-micron resolution is now achievable.
3.1.2 Reading Micrometer Drives
Fig. 3.1 Reading Differential Micrometer Drives (RB13D)
3.2 Piezo Actuators
Piezo actuators are used to give nanometric positioning of the top platform over a
range of 30 microns. They can also modulate the position of the platform at high
frequency.
On a piezo-actuated RollerBlock, position feedback may be incorporated to enhance
the repeatability and linearity of piezo motion.
The piezo actuators fitted to the RollerBlock should be used together with one of the
Thorlabs piezoelectric controllers – see the relevant piezo controller handbook for
more details on the operation of piezo actuators.
Scale index mark
1.0 μm intervals
10.0 μm intervals Fine adjustment
50 μm/rev
Coarse adjustment
0.5 mm/rev
8
Chapter 4 Installation
4.1 Unpacking
4.2 Attaching to a Work Surface
The base of the RollerBlock is provided with a number of fixing holes and slots for
attachment to metric or inch optical tables, as supplied by Thorlabs and other
manufacturers.
When mounting the RollerBlock close to other equipment, ensure that the travel of the
moving platform is not obstructed. If the moving platform is driven against a solid
object, damage to the internal mechanism could occur. The range of travel on each
axis is 13 mm total, that is ±6.5 mm about the nominal position.
Note
Retain the packing in which the unit was shipped, for use in future
transportation.
Caution
Once removed from its packaging, the RollerBlock is easily damaged by
mishandling. The unit should only be handled by its base, not by the top
platform or any attachments to the top platform.
9
RB Series 3-Axis Translation Stage
4.3 Fitting an Extended Top Platform
The extended top platform is available in three lengths: AMA001 85mm, AMA003
95mm and AMA005 105mm. They are convenient for attaching components or
accessories which need to reach into smaller spaces.
To fit an extended top plate:
1) Remove the four retaining screws (see Fig. 4.1).
2) Remove the top plate and fit the extended top plate.
3) Refit the screws removed at item (1).
Fig. 4.1 Fitting an extended top platform
4 screws
10 HA0161T Rev H Aug 2015
Chapter 4
4.4 System Stability
The RollerBlock has been designed using traditional precision engineering
techniques. Very high resolution is achieved using a combination of precision thread
or differential micrometer drives and piezoelectric actuators. Extreme care and
precise matching of tolerances and components ensure that the RollerBlock provides
the best possible positional resolution and stability.
The threads used for the drive screws are very finely made with the correct clearances
and lubrication. In overcoming creep and drift, great care was exercised in the choice
and quantity of lubricant used on the threads. The lubricants and choice of material
employed in the design and manufacture are critical to the performance and stabitlity
of the RollerBlock. Changing the thread lubricant will adversely affect the
performance of the whole system.
4.5 Mounting Equipment to the Moving Platform
Thorlabs manufacture a variety of fibre chucks, holders and fixtures to fit the
RollerBlock stage, which are mounted on the top platform - see www.thorlabs.com for
more details.
4.6 Transportation
Caution
To avoid damaging the internal mechanism:
The weight attached to the moving platform must not exceed 4 kg (8.8lbs).
Do not apply excessive forces to the moving platform.
Caution
When packing the unit for shipping, use the original packing. If this is not
available, use a strong box and surround the RollerBlock with at least 100
mm of shock absorbent material.
11
RB Series 3-Axis Translation Stage
4.7 Dimensions
4.7.1 Top Plate
Fig. 4.2 Top platform
B holes M3 (6-32 UNC)
20
(0.79)
20
(0.79)
7.5
(0.3)
60 (2.36) A
60
(2.36)
Product No
AMA001
AMA003
AMA005
A
28 (1.10
35 (1.38)
45 (1.77)
B
12 (0.47)
12 (0.47)
14 (0.55)
extended top platform
30.0 (1.18)
17.0 (0.67) 17.0 (0.67)
20.0 (0.79) 20.0 (0.79)
5.3 (0.21)
5.3 (0.21)
20.0 (0.79) 20.0 (0.79)
17.0 (0.67) 17.0 (0.67)
5.3 (0.21) 5.3 (0.21)
10.0 (0.39)
10.0 (0.39)
10.0 (0.39) 10.0 (0.39)
30.0 (1.18)
60.0 (2.36)
7.5
(0.3)
7.5
(0.3)
3 Pitches of 15.00 (0.59) = 45.0
3 Pitches of 15.00 (0.59) = 45.0
60.0 (2.36)
4.0 (0.16)
1.6 (0.06)
3.0 (0.12)
3.00 (0.12)
1.6
(0.06)
all dimensions in millimetres (inches)
12 HA0161T Rev H Aug 2015
Chapter 4
4.7.2 RB13M RollerBlock with Micrometer Drives
Fig. 4.3 RB13M Micrometer RollerBlock Dimensions
4.93 (125mm)
± 0.26(6.5mm)
TRAVEL
3.62
(92mm)
0.31
(8mm)
MANUAL MICROMETER
10 m/ GRADUATION
3 PLACES
PART# 148-801
1.48
(38mm)
0.98
(25mm)
0.89
(23mm)
3.42
(88mm)
2.44 (62mm
NOM.
± 0.26(6.5mm)
TRAVEL
2.50
(63mm)
0.16
(4mm)
2.91
(74mm)
3mm WIDE
ALIGNMENT
GROOVE FOR
ACCESSORIES
13
RB Series 3-Axis Translation Stage
4.7.3 RollerBlock with Micrometer and Piezo Drives
Fig. 4.4 RB13MP Micrometer RollerBlock Dimensions
3.62
(92mm)
7.83 (198mm)
NOM.
PIEZOELECTRIC ATUATOR MICROMETER
WITH PIEZO FEEDBACK
PART# DRV517
3 PLACES
0.98
(25mm)
3.42
(88mm)
0.89
(23mm)
1.48
(38mm)
2.91
(74mm)
2.44 (62mm)
NOM.
± 0.26(6.5mm)
TRAVEL
5.40 (137mm)
NOM.
3mm WIDE
ALIGNMENT
GROOVE FOR
ACCESSORIES
14 HA0161T Rev H Aug 2015
Chapter 4
4.7.4 RB13D RollerBlock with Differential Drives
Fig. 4.5 RBL13D Differential Drive RollerBlock Dimensions
DIFFERENTIAL MICROMETER
HEAD 1/2"(13mm) TRAVEL
PART# DRV304
3 PLACES
3mm WIDE
ALIGNMENT
GROOVE FOR
ACCESSORIES
2.91
[74.0]
2.19 - 0.00
+ 0.50
[55.5] - 0.0
+ 12.7
5.71
[145.1]
6.50
[165.1]
3.62
[92.0]
0.31
[8.0]
3.82
[97.1]
0.59
[15.0]
0.79
[20.0]
1.34
[34.0]
1.57
[40.0]
1.48
[37.5]
2.95
[75.0]
#6-32 UNC (M3) THRU
16 PLACES
#8-32 UNC (M4)THRU
9 PLACES
#4-40 UNC (M2) THRU
4 PLACES
nom
nom
15
Chapter 5 Specification
5.1 Specification
Stage Specifications
Drive Specifications
Parameter Value
Travel 13 mm
Travel Mechanism Crossed Roller Bearings
Deck Height 62.5 mm (2.46”)
Optical Axis Height 75 mm (2.95”)
Max Load Capacity 4.4 kg (9.7 lbs)
Mounting Barrel Ø 9.5 mm (Ø 0.38”)
Pitch and Yaw X: ±125 µrad
Y: ±75 µrad
Z: ±150 µrad
Straightness ± 10 µm
Parameter Value
Travel Range Coarse: 13mm (1/2”)
Fine: 300 µm
Resolution Coarse: 5.0 µm
Fine: 0.5 µm
Coarse Adjustment
(with Vernier Scale) 500 µm per rev
Fine Adjustment
(with Vernier Scale) 50 µm per rev.
16
Chapter 6 Accessories List
Part Number Description
Imperial Extended top platform +28mm AMA001
Imperial Extended top platform +35mm AMA003
Imperial Extended top platform +45mm AMA005
Imperial Fixed platform bracket 62.5mm high, 25mm wide AMA025
Imperial General Purpose Adapter Plate RB13P1
Metric Extended top platform +28mm AMA001/M
Metric Extended top platform +35mm AMA003/M
Metric Extended top platform +45mm AMA005/M
Metric Fixed platform bracket 62.5mm high, 25mm wide AMA025/M
Metric General Purpose Adapter Plate RB13P1/M
Imperial Micrometer Drive 148-811ST
Metric Micrometer Drive 148-801ST
Piezo Assisted Micrometer Drive DRV517
Differential Drive DRV304
Handbook HA0161T
17
Chapter 7 Regulatory
7.1 Declarations Of Conformity
7.1.1 For Customers in Europe
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the EC Directives
89/336/EEC ‘EMC Directive’ and 73/23/EEC ‘Low Voltage Directive’ as amended by
93/68/EEC.
Compliance was demonstrated by conformance to the following specifications which
have been listed in the Official Journal of the European Communities:
Safety EN61010: 2001 Installation Category II, Polution Degree II.
EMC EN61326: 1997
7.1.2 For Customers In The USA
This equipment has been tested and found to comply with the limits for a Class A
digital device, persuant to part 15 of the FCC rules. These limits are designed to
provide reasonable protection against harmful interference when the equipment is
operated in a commercial environment. This equipment generates, uses and can
radiate radio frequency energy and, if not installed and used in accordance with the
instruction manual, may cause harmful interference to radio communications.
Operation of this equipment in a residential area is likely to cause harmful interference
in which case the user will be required to correct the interference at his own expense.
Changes or modifications not expressly approved by the company could void the
user’s authority to operate the equipment.
7.2
Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment
(WEEE)
Directive
7.2.1 Compliance
As required by the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive of
the European Community and the corresponding national laws, we offer all end users
in the EC the possibility to return "end of life" units without incurring disposal charges.
This offer is valid for electrical and electronic equipment
• sold after August 13th 2005
• marked correspondingly with the crossed out "wheelie bin" logo (see Fig. 1)
• sold to a company or institute within the EC
• currently owned by a company or institute within the EC
• still complete, not disassembled and not contaminated
18 HA0161T Rev H Aug 2015
Chapter 7
Fig. 7.1 Crossed out "wheelie bin" symbol
As the WEEE directive applies to self contained operational electrical and electronic
products, this "end of life" take back service does not refer to other products, such as
• pure OEM products, that means assemblies to be built into a unit by the user (e. g.
OEM laser driver cards)
• components
• mechanics and optics
• left over parts of units disassembled by the user (PCB's, housings etc.).
If you wish to return a unit for waste recovery, please contact Thorlabs or your nearest
dealer for further information.
7.2.2 Waste treatment on your own responsibility
If you do not return an "end of life" unit to the company, you must hand it to a company
specialized in waste recovery. Do not dispose of the unit in a litter bin or at a public
waste disposal site.
7.2.3 Ecological background
It is well known that WEEE pollutes the environment by releasing toxic products
during decomposition. The aim of the European RoHS directive is to reduce the
content of toxic substances in electronic products in the future.
The intent of the WEEE directive is to enforce the recycling of WEEE. A controlled
recycling of end of life products will thereby avoid negative impacts on the
environment.
19
Chapter 8 Thorlabs Worldwide Contacts
For technical support or sales inquiries, please visit us at
www.thorlabs.com/contact for our most up-to-date contact information.
USA, Canada, and South America
Thorlabs, Inc.
Europe
Thorlabs GmbH
France
Thorlabs SAS
Japan
Thorlabs Japan, Inc.
UK and Ireland
Thorlabs Ltd.
Scandinavia
Thorlabs Sweden AB
Brazil
Thorlabs Vendas de Fotônicos Ltda.
China
Thorlabs China
20
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