Title

Approaches to open source 3-D printable probe positioners and micromanipulators for probe stations

Authors

Iiro Hietanen, Aalto University
Ismo T. S. Heikkinen, Aalto University
Hele Savin, Aalto University
Joshua M. Pearce, Michigan Technological UniversityFollow

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

9-18-2018

Abstract

Three types of highly-customizable open source probe positioning systems are evaluated: (a) mostly 3-D printed, (b) partially printed using OpenBeam kinematic constraints, and (c) a 3-level stack of low-cost commercial single axis micropositioners and some printed parts. All systems use digital distributed manufacturing to enable bespoke features, which can be fabricated with RepRap-class 3-D printer and easily accessible components. They are all flexible in material choice for custom components. The micropositioners can be set up for left-right use and flat or recessed configurations using either mechanical or magnetic mounting. All systems use a manual probe holder that can be customized and enable a quick swap probe system. System (a) is purchased for $100 or fabricated for200 microns, (b) 40 microns and (c) 10 microns. A tradeoff is observed for 3-D printed percent between cost and accuracy. All systems provided substantial cost savings over proprietary products with similar functionality.

Publisher's Statement

© 2018 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Ltd. Article deposited here in compliance with publisher policies. Publisher's version of record: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ohx.2018.e00042

Publication Title

HardwareX

Recommended Citation

Hietanen, I., Heikkinen, I. T., Savin, H., & Pearce, J. M. (2018). Approaches to open source 3-D printable probe positioners and micromanipulators for probe stations. HardwareX. http://doi.org/10.1016/j.ohx.2018.e00042
Retrieved from: https://digitalcommons.mtu.edu/materials_fp/184

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

Version

Postprint