Precision drive mechanism for long-travel microscopy stage
It is a goal of the proposed invention to provide “encoder-like” performance without incurring the cost and complexity of a closed loop system.
1 . A precision drive mechanism comprising:
(a) a lead screw having a first end coupled by a preloaded ball and cone to an end support;
(b) a screw nut; and
(c) a flexural mechanism attached to a rigid linear bearing.
2 . The precision drive mechanism of claim 1 wherein the preloaded ball and cone are secured by an external spring.
3 . The precision drive mechanism of claim 1 wherein the flexural mechanism comprises at least three balls.
4 . The precision drive mechanism of claim 3 wherein the flexural mechanism further comprises at least three contact pads.
5 . A method for precision translation of a stage, the method comprising fixing a first end of a lead screw to and end support by a preloaded ball and cone and coupling a screw nut to a flexural mechanism that is attached to a rigid linear bearing system.
6 . The method of claim 5 wherein the preloaded ball and cone are secured by an external spring.
7 . The method of claim 5 wherein the flexural mechanism comprises at least three balls.
8 . The method of claim 7 wherein the flexural mechanism further comprises at least three contact pads.