New White Paper: Piezo Tip/Tilt Systems

Design – Performance – Tuning

Piezo tip/tilt systems from PI (Physik Instrumente) are versatile positioning systems ─ they are ideal for dynamic operation in applications such as scanning, tracking, for suppressing drift oscillation or dynamic image stabilizing. Piezo tip/tilt systems and scanners offer greater acceleration and dynamic bandwidth than similar actuators such as for example, voice coil or galvanometer scanners. Piezo tip/tilt systems developed by PI are also found in applications for quasistatic positioning of optics with high demands on "pointing stability".

The new white paper offers a sound insight into the basics of piezo tip/tilt systems. The design and functional principle are explained as well as the delivery condition and system quality. The paper also provides important information on handling mirrors and how piezo tip/tilt systems are controlled and operated. Supplemental information is also provided and includes application examples from OEM engineering, and FEM optimization. Here is a short overview of the questions dealt with in the white paper:

How is a Piezo Tip/Tilt System Set Up and How Does it Work?

PI offers tip/tilt systems in various versions tailored exactly to your application. A single-axis system is ideal if a simple design, small installation space, and low costs are crucial. Multi-axis version are more suitable if your requirements are higher or more specialized, e.g., for high angular stability in a wide temperature range. You'll find out more on the versions and the working principle of the systems in the white paper.

What Can I Expect When my System is Delivered?

PI commits itself to comply with the specifications of the international standards ISO 9001, ISO 14001, and OHSAS 18001. An integrated management system (IMS) ensures this and makes sure that you can fully rely on our products! The performance test sheet is supplied, which provides evidence of the system performance. 

How do I Handle the Mirror?

The white paper gives you specific instructions how to handle a mirror and not damage the system. You can ask us to mount your mirror or do it yourself with the help of a template and centering aid from PI. The paper also deals with the gap of previously mounted mirrors.

Which Control Electronics are Suitable and How do I Get my System Started?

PI offers an extensive range of analog or digital electronics and therefore has the right solutions at hand for your application! The PIMikroMove software supplied comprises a variety of functions and display options from measured values to diagnostics and process control. It allows fast and simple startup of your piezo tip/tilt system. Read the white paper to find out more about that!

The Standard Product does not Meet my Requirements so What Now?

Together, we'll find a solution for your application! Our technical enthusiasm coupled with longstanding experience makes it possible to find a solution, even for the most tricky positioning tasks. We are the professionals in developing customized systems and will continue to look after you even after your system has been delivered.

PI makes use of the latest FEM (Finite Element Method) analyzing tools as well as CAD software to make sure that the newly developed system meets your requirements exactly. We use simulation models to thoroughly test the feasibility and also do risk analysis at the very beginning. Finally, endurance testing under realistic conditions provides evidence of the system performance.