Methods for Performance Evaluation of Single Axis Positioning Systems: Incremental Step Test

Published

October 25, 2013

Author(s)

Ronnie R. Fesperman Jr., Brian O'Connor, Serge Maneuf

Abstract

Many new ultra-precision linear and angular positioning systems are finding their way into emerging technologies that rely on positioning systems to make small incremental moves. Currently, no standard test method exists that defines pass/fail criteria for determining the ability of the positioning system to perform these small commanded motions. Furthermore, no standard test exist that helps quantify the smallest incremental move that a positioning axis is capable of performing. This paper discusses the Incremental Step Test that is being proposed as part of a new standards development effort. In addition, a proposed procedure for measuring and calculating the Minimum Incremental Motion performance parameter or smallest increment that a positioning axis is capable of achieving is also described.

Proceedings Title

Proceedings of the ASPE Annual Meeting

Volume

56

Conference Dates

October 20-25, 2013

Conference Location

Saint Paul, MN

Conference Title

28th ASPE Annual Meeting

Pub Type

Conferences

Download Paper

Local Download

Keywords

Standard, Performance Test, Incremental Step, Minimum Incremental Motion

Citation

Fesperman, R. , O'Connor, B. and Maneuf, S. (2013), Methods for Performance Evaluation of Single Axis Positioning Systems: Incremental Step Test, Proceedings of the ASPE Annual Meeting, Saint Paul, MN, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=914464 (Accessed October 15, 2025)