Methods for Performance Evaluation of Single Axis Positioning Systems: A New Standard

Published

October 25, 2013

Author(s)

Ronnie R. Fesperman Jr., Nathan Brown, Kevin Elliott, Jonathan D. Ellis, Axel Grabowski, Steve Ludwick, Serge Maneuf, Brian O'Connor, Shane Woody

Abstract

Many new high-precision linear and angular positioning systems are being used in emerging micro- and nanotechnology applications. Measuring and certifying the performance of these systems with off-the-shelf instrumentation and test methods suggested by existing performance standards can be challenging. Manufacturers and users are recognizing this challenge and are developing their own internal methods for characterizing positioning system performance. Performance specifications based on these diverse and independent methods is leading to customer confusion and ambiguity. Members of industry, academia, and government have recognized this challenge and the need for a new standard for measurement methods that specifically address the performance of single axis positioning systems. In this paper, we discuss factors affecting the accurate characterization and communication of positioning system performance. The scope for a standard for the performance evaluation of single axis positioning systems is presented and the new test methods being considered for inclusion in this standard are briefly 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, Metrology, Positioning Systems, Performance Characterization

Citation

Fesperman, R. , Brown, N. , Elliott, K. , Ellis, J. , Grabowski, A. , Ludwick, S. , Maneuf, S. , O'Connor, B. and Woody, S. (2013), Methods for Performance Evaluation of Single Axis Positioning Systems: A New Standard, Proceedings of the ASPE Annual Meeting, Saint Paul, MN, [online], https://tsapps.nist.gov/publication/get_pdf.cfm?pub_id=914442 (Accessed October 14, 2025)