PI unveils motion solutions at LASER World of PHOTONICS

At the 2025 LASER World of PHOTONICS in Munich, Germany, PI will present its latest precision motion solutions designed for industrial applications. Featured products include the F-141 PINovAlign, a cost-optimized, AI-supported 6-axis photonics alignment system; the H-815 industrial hexapod; and the B-421 BIX miniaturized nanopositioning stages. These systems are intended for continuous use in semiconductor, photonics, and other precision automation environments.

F-141, PINovAlign photonics alignment system for high-volume PIC test and manufacture

PI’s new AI-based F-141 photonics alignment system delivers high-throughput alignment in 4 to 6 degrees of freedom for single and double-sided FAU (fiber array unit) and integrated circuit (PIC) test and assembly. Compact in size (~5×7×4 inches), it offers 40mm XYZ travel and 12° optical-axis rotation, with direct-drive motors and precision bearings ensuring speed, accuracy, and longevity. An optional pitch/yaw module provides full 6-DOF alignment capability. It is controlled by an EtherCAT-based system that includes embedded machine learning routines to support efficient first-light detection and signal optimization. The system is designed for use in PIC and fiber array alignment, wafer testing, and silicon photonics assembly, with pricing structured for high-volume component production.

H-815, Hexapod: 6-axis precision for industrial 24/7 operation

The new H-815 hexapod is a robust and compact, parallel-kinematic motion system offering six degrees of freedom. Designed for continuous industrial operation, it offers high position repeatability, integrated brakes for stability during power loss, and absolute position measuring encoders that eliminate the need for referencing. Standardized interfaces support integration into production environments, such as photonics and semiconductor systems.

B-421 BIX, miniature linear nanopositioning stages for tight spaces

Designed for space-constrained setups, the B-421 BIX miniature piezo stages offer smooth motion with step sizes as small as 10 nanometers. Powered by a two-phase piezo inertia drive and controlled by a closed-loop motion controller, the system processes feedback from the stage-integrated linear encoder. BIX offers travel ranges up to 33 mm and supports multi-axis configurations, suitable for applications such as microscopy, photonics, and precision assembly.

Future Zone: magnetic levitation and new hexapod concepts

In the show’s Future Zone, PI will display technologies such as a MagLev-based picopositioning system offering picometer-level resolution and active six-axis position control. Also featured is a new lever-actuated hexapod designed to provide stable positioning and dynamic performance with minimal mechanical wear, making it suitable for high-speed, precision applications.

For more information, visit pi-usa.us.