Automated Multi-Channel Fiber Array Alignment
Fast Active Alignment – Simultaneous Positioning in 6 DOF – Custom Degree of Automation
The worldwide appetite for data is growing exponentially, driven by countless applications such as mobile computing, IoT or video streaming - to name but a few. Photonics-based computing offers significant advantages in terms of lower energy consumption and faster data transmission. Cost-effective mass production of photonic integrated circuits (PICs) requires precise positioning and high alignment speed when it comes to wafer-probing, fiber-chip coupling, and packaging. The setup for multi-channel automated fiber assembly, based on the proven >> double-sided fiber alignment system and PI´s multi-axis gantry system, offers an idea for further workflow automation.
Motion Control
PI's modular hardware and ACS EtherCAT-based controller architecture allow OEMs to construct really high performance and safe automation assemblies of arbitrary complexity. Alternatively, PI's Engineered Subsystems Group stands ready to assemble and ship custom automation subassemblies like the one demonstrated here - ideal for OEMs preferring to focus on their value-added.
Key Features of the Gantry System for Pick-and-Place
- High mechanical stability
- High dynamic precision positioning in three axes
- Linear motors or brushless drives (optionally with air bearings)
- Wide range of designs (drive systems, bearings, encoders …) and specifications (velocity, acceleration, travel ranges …)
Double-Sided Fiber Alignment System
- Hexapod combined with the NanoCube® Nanopositioner for Parallel-kinematic motion in three degrees of freedom
>> H-811 Hexapod
>> P-616 NanoCube® Nanopositioner - Integrated scan routines for fiber optic alignment
- Firmware based parallel gradient search algorithm included
- Automatic alignment of several fibers / fiber arrays in < 0.5 s
Optical Power Meter
- Conversion of optical signal into a voltage signal
- Additional current input
- From 400 nm to 1550 nm
- Signal bandwidth: 20 kHz
- Precise logarithmical output
>> F-712.PM1 Optical Power Meter
Further Applications for the F-712 System Family and the Gantry Concept
Downloads
Enabling Large-Format Industrial Productivity
Award-Winning PI Fast Alignment Technology Comes to ACS Controls
