Physik Instrumente (PI), a global specialist in precision motion control and nanopositioning technology, has launched its Modular Precision Linear (MPL) stage family, a configurable platform that simplifies the specification and integration of high-precision linear positioning systems
The modular concept enables engineers to configure linear stages online by selecting from a range of mechanical, drive, and feedback options tailored to their application.
By combining different travel ranges, drives, motors, and feedback systems, the MPL concept allows thousands of unique stage configurations that can be specified online.
The MPL platform acts as a modular toolkit, helping to keep costs down while maintaining the precision, stiffness, and reliability required for demanding positioning tasks. Precision linear stages are fundamental components in industrial and scientific systems, delivering accurate straight-line motion with minimal runout and high repeatability.
The MPL series starts with available travel ranges of 50-, 100-, 150-, 200-, 250-, and 300-mm. Motor choices include servo motors for dynamic applications and stepper motors, which offer several low-cost control options. Linear motors are to be made available in a future release.
For applications requiring additional position-holding capability, such as vertical Z-axis applications, a motor brake is also available.
By facilitating rapid configuration and online visualisation, the MPL family can help engineers shorten design cycles and identify the optimal motion solution more quickly. The modular architecture also simplifies integration into single- or multi-axis motion systems, supporting scalable designs from laboratory instrumentation to automated production equipment.
