MAPS

Anemos' Multi-axis Absolute Position Sensors, MAPS, simultaneously measure one to a full six position dimensions, 6DoF, at one point in space with phenomenal accuracy using a single, tiny sensor—a world-first in metrology. This scalable and disruptive technology opens up a vast range of applications with its compact, all-axis point-of-interest measuring capability, is performance proven and traceable to renown metrology authorities. First conceived to radically simplify mechatronics design while decimating Abbe and other errors, MAPS now also offers unparalleled precision in its highest performance versions.

The patented system is made up of a scale, a sensor head, and a processor (no cumbersome lasers). The specially patterned scale (the metrological reference or map) is key to its functionality and practically unlimited resolution down to picometre, nanoradians levels. The sensor head is a purpose-built camera system and images from it are processed off-board by a high performance embedded GPU in current products. Application and communication software runs on the Linux processor for flexible, high-level product integration.

Multi-DOF Measurement

Accurately measuring position in 6 dimensions is a revolutionary idea that drives a whole new mindset in mechanical design providing exceptional possibilities to motion systems design and optimization. Unlike traditional encoders, which can measure only one degree of freedom, unaware of errors in other directions that influence downstream axes; MAPS encoders can measure the errors for one axis and compensate for in the next.

Moreover, no longer do machines require heavy and expensive constraints (mechanical ways and bearings) to force movement into a single highly accurate —therefore measurable— dimension over several individual axes. Instead, move objects with several degrees of freedom while directly compensating for bearing inaccuracies, overcome squareness/parallelism, rotational runout, and stiffness problems. Decimate associated costs with simple, multi-dimensional sensors in both new designs and retrofits. We say: liberate machines with new design freedoms: kinematics unchained!

MAPS System Components

Scale

The scale provides the absolute metrological reference.

Sensor head

The sensors position relative to the scale is what is measured.

Processor

MAPS systems include high-performance GPU image processors alongside general purpose computer running Anemos software (not currently open to customers). Images captured from the perspective of the sensor are processed to calculate the relative position of the sensor to the scale. To generate the final multi-axis position output, proprietary algorithms manipulate large image data sets using huge amounts of computational power. The results are used internally by embedded applications such as the built-in web user interface or sent out over a network connection. The communication and control protocol runs over secure WebSockets and can be accessed remotely across the internet to restricted to point-to-point.

Position Sensors Comparison

Like conventional optical position sensors, MAPS has two main measuring parts: a patterned scale which establishes the metrological reference (essentially a map), and a moving sensor-head that images the scale that is processed to determine absolute position.

At the top end of metrology, MAPS competitive advantages over classic and costly optical interferometers (OI) are significant. OI’s with their incremental and limited interpolation resolution, attendant Abbe errors, susceptibility to atmospheric conditions, arduous setup requirements, and, not least, mono dimensionality. For calibration applications, Anemos sensor systems and application software provide accurate, repeatable metrology tools that are quick and simple to setup and tear down in the field. For instance, drop an Anemos scale onto a CMM/CNC bed, place a MAPS 6DoF sensor in the chuck, drive around and measure in minutes. Come back a week later, repeat and compare. Simple, fast, repeatable, and unbelievably accurate. Compare this with a whole day necessary to setup interferometer systems.

MAPS product lines

Anemos’ revolutionary MAPS systems are available with scale and sensor system combinations to meet accuracy and motion envelope needs for a broad range of applications for metrology, machine tools, microscopy, nanotech, robotics and many others. System combinations are divided into three basic categories according to capability, target applications, and value points.

Mistral sensors are mid-performance devices targeted at submicron XY stage, CNC, CMM, or similar calibration tasks.

Scirocco series use high resolution scales yielding sub-nanometre performance for nanotech industries and microscopy.

Zephyr the ultimate in precise metrology. Multi-MAPS sensor arrangements further enhance all 6DoF axes and in particular deliver uncompromising accuracy on all rotational axes simultaneously offering subatomic system resolution.