What Is an XY Stage?
XY stages are a type of optical or imaging component that can be manually operated to change the tilt of the stage at will.
Since it moves like a seesaw, it can be tilted at any position and fixed with a lever. Simple in construction and easy to operate, there are also both two-plate stages and stages that can rotate in one direction in addition to the bidirectional tilt.
Applications of XY Stages
XY stages are categorized as optical components, image processing components, and R&D and clean room supplies.
XY stages are used in various applications, such as positioning, by adjusting the inclination of an object when using a camera or sensor. They can also be used as a platform on which to place samples when using measuring instruments, and are also used to adjust the angle of the specimen. They are also used in applications such as equipment integration, production facilities, and research and development.
Principle of XY Stages
XY stages are characterized by their low profile and small size for use in limited space or with small optical systems. XY stages include stages that can adjust not only one axis of tilt, but also two axes of tilt, and some types can be adjusted by both tilt and rotation.
The function of XY stages is to adjust the rotation and tilt by changing the angle of the stage, as well as to adjust the azimuth of the image of the subject. Rotation can be adjusted by turning the feed knob by hand and tilt adjustment by moving the adjustment ring by hand, and once the desired position is set, it can be fixed with a lever.
Other types of XY stages include single-axis stages with an additional spherical component between the base and the upper stage, which acts as a fulcrum and allows the stage to tilt freely.