More than scratching the surface
Surface measurement technology and precise positioning – are they related or nothing to do with each other?
Aerotech, manufacturer of high-performance motion control and positioning systems, offers a wide range of solutions for surface measurement technology applications – from the motion component level to motion subsystem platform, to turnkey machinery solutions. Aerotech has its own application team dedicated to the integration of measuring systems and positioning systems.
Surface analysis is often integrated directly into the production line as a quality assurance process. As is often the case in semiconductor manufacturing, for example wafer inspection or the production of flat panels, quality is assessed after almost every process step, necessitating fully automated in-process inspection with object loading, measurement and subsequent further processing. Control of the motion systems and synchronisation with sensors can generally be described as motion control, and this is exactly what Aerotech has been delivering for 50 years. As an experienced manufacturer, Aerotech offers customised solutions for automated surface measurement technology where high throughput and maximum accuracy are required. Among other things, users benefit from high-performance linear and rotary stages as well as controllers with hardware based real time position-synchronised triggering of sensors.
An example is the integration of the current Keyence 3D profilometer. Surface measurement is achieved using a light section method (laser triangulation). In this way, contours, unevenness and roughness of components can be measured with a resolution of up to 1 µm.
Aerotech – Dedicated to the Science of Motion
Aerotech Inc., based in Pittsburgh, USA, is a privately held, family-owned company founded in 1970 by Stephen J. Botos with the vision of advancing the science of motion control and positioning systems for customers in industry, science and research. As a family business, the owners continue to place great value on open and trusting relationships with customers, business partners and employees. In Germany, the mid-sized company is represented by its own subsidiary, Aerotech GmbH, based in Fürth. In addition to sales and service activities, the Fürth facility handles customised assembly of positioning systems for the European market. The company’s innovative and high-precision motion solutions meet all critical requirements necessary for today's demanding applications. They are used wherever high throughput is required – including medical and life science applications, semiconductor and flat screen production, photonics, automotive, data storage, laser processing, aerospace and electronics manufacturing, as well as inspection, testing and assembly.
With advanced analysis and diagnostic capabilities, Aerotech provides world-class technical support and service. If a standard product is not suitable for an individual application, Aerotech can supply special motion components and systems based on its many years of expertise and experience. Manufacturing capacity for customer-specific applications is supplemented by experience in supplying systems for vacuum and clean room operation.
Aerotech has full-service subsidiaries in Germany (Fürth), United Kingdom (Ramsdell), China (Shanghai) and Taiwan (Taipei). Aerotech currently employs around 500 people worldwide. http://www.aerotech.com
